Category: Bible Journaling

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism, Life Inspiration

Watchfulness in View of the Return of Our Lord

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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 authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

He put us in this place to watch His house until He returns; but how many are watching the house, and how many are watching Netflix, or Heaven only knows what else. But for certain there are fewer and fewer watching the houses of God and the people of God. This morning I heed the warnings of the Lord and believe that I too need to do a better job until His return, which is eminent.

His Journey

When Jesus returned home 2000 years ago I can well imagine there was a great celebration! 🎉The horrific crucifixion had been no doubt more than many of His angels could bear. The fact that it was finished, and they would never again have to see their Lord suffer would have been cause for a deafening time of rejoicing. Now that His earthly journey was over, He had left the earth in the hands of His people. I’d never really thought of it like that. This was His Creation, fabricated from His Word and created so that His people would have a place to dwell until the final story unfolds. And look at it! Spring is an amazing time to live in the country. Everything is greening up and the budding out and it smells heavenly outside! And in all that, most of the world fail to see the Creator.  They fail to see the new life that is symbolic of what will come. But before the new life, there will be great destruction for those who don’t believe. 

Our Work

It’s why He left us with marching orders.

🎵🎶🎶Onward Christian Soldier, marching off to war

With the cross of Jesus, going on before 🎵🎶

He didn’t leave us here to sit and soak in the sun until He returned. He told us to watch and gave us authority as His servants. So the question has to be, where are we serving? COVID-19 has opened up doors of opportunity to serve in new ways. Some of which are not easy to accomplish, like taking care of the church when the church isn’t where it’s normally at on Sunday. This will be my first Easter since salvation that I haven’t gotten to take communion, or enjoyed the fellowship of many of my friends in the faith. I worry about those who don’t have the blessing of social media, and who are not able to tune in to our services. We can’t visit and see them face to face, and so I worry about their spiritual wellbeing. I know I need to do more. I need to accept the “authority” I’ve been given. In the words of Nike, “just do it.”

His Return

Watch, He says. It could be morning, night or noon, but we’ve got to be ready. I know that I, personally, am ready. But I don’t believe that’s the only thing the Lord is talking about it. How are we preparing His house for His return? Too many houses of God are asleep. They’ve allowed the sirens of Hell to lull them into believe in theres always time. Or many have gotten so far away from the word of God that they don’t even know what the truth is any more. 

When I read Mark 13:14 this morning it pierced my soul.

Mark 13:14 KJVS

But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:

Let him that readeth understand? How many do? How many know what the scripture refers to when it speaks of those words in Daniel and the times of tribulation. Believe me when I say I don’t know nearly as much as I should, just enough to be dangerous most likely. But I know that when I read end time prophecy it reads like a modern day newspaper. Well, not really, because a modern day newspaper is far from the truth! But the word of God is every single bit of truth. 

Going into the Easter weekend is a great time of reflection but it should also be a great week of service. Many in the world have their eyes on Heaven right now because they’re worried. It’s our time to let the light of Jesus shine and give them hope!  

David and I sat in the living room last night and I caught just a few minutes of the nightly news. NBC I think. It made me want to throw up. Nothing but negativity and any spin they could use to make this the President’s fault. While I don’t expect those heathens to be sharing the gospel, it would be nice if they shared the truth. And so we turned it off. That’s what the world is doing to Christians today because they’re not living out the truth either. We’ve got to be more diligent about taking the word of God out to the world around us. We need to do a better job of taking care of the Lord’s house.

I have a feeling that that ol’ rooster could crow any moment. What will you be found doing when the Master returns?

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Purpose, Word of God

Bad Behavior: Own it and move on

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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 I drove down the road listening to a podcast of some of my favorite people, I should have seen the warning signs. That bristling on the back of my neck, the fact that I was biting my lip, my righteous rage and holy hostility festering just beneath the surface, and then, just as I pulled into my destination it exploded in an iTunes rating. 

So let me back up and tell you how the story began. 

The podcast that I was listening to was a Christian podcast of some characters that I will leave nameless for now although some of you may already know. In faith, I love them. I love their stand for Christ and the great witnesses they are. But they had a day of stupidity and it caught me on a day of pondering it too long. They were talking about the stock market and the fact that one of them loved dabbling in it and was pretty successful. I don’t have a problem with that. And I don’t think the stock market is gambling, even though there’s risk. I theorize that on the idea that it’s investing in the hope of American business. Is it guaranteed? Nope. But neither is going into business. That’s a risk. But if you have the money and you’re investing your money at VT markets with the knowledge it’s not a sure thing, I don’t think God minds.

But then their conversation went somewhere I never expected. Poker and other forms of gambling. Only one of the three was involved, but he was very adamant about the fact that he didn’t consider it gambling because he was very good at it. Therefore it wasn’t a risk.

What? 

The conversation progressed into a the fact that he also agreed with video gambling because he was very good at. At which point he goes on to say that he had recently had a conversation with President Trump’s son, and tried to convince him that they needed to legalize it again because it was a great way to make money. Gambling could be a reliable source of income for those who knew how to play the odds, and for those looking for more strategic opportunities, using the Best Spread Betting Brokers UK could be a smart way to maximize their potential earnings.

What?!

My outspoken, Christian star, who I adore and love listening to, just broke my heart. I have heard this man take a stand on the word of God, witness to lost souls in places that he wasn’t invited for that purpose and do it boldly! But this day his focus is not on the things of God, but rather the almighty dollar and how it’s okay to bilk other’s out of their money who aren’t as good playing cards. Trump’s son, took the high road, and informed him that gambling was indeed wrong in that it destroyed people’s lives. And it was at that point that I pulled into my destination. 

For the record, I didn’t throw stones.  I just pointed to the word of God and that in Romans 14:13 it clearly reads:

Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way.

Whether or not you consider that it is “not an issue for you,” doesn’t change what it is. 

Gambling defined is “To play games of chance for money; bet. Or to take risky action in the hope of a desired result.” That would mean that those who do it are “gamblers.” It doesn’t say only those who lose. And somebody has to lose for someone to win. That’s not so with the stock market. Everyone “can” win. They likely don’t, but they could. 

Probably the preverbal straw that broke the camels back was when he added alcohol into the mix saying “drinking is not a sin, but there are those who are alcoholics, that shouldn’t drink.” But the fact of the matter is, how do you know who’s an addict? And if by your drinking (which this guy doesn’t) and you cause an alcoholic to fall, by drinking in their presence, who’s accountable? I’m pretty sure, you’re a stumbling block.  

Now, that being said, and off my heart, let me put this into perspective as a child of God in times like these. As I told my brother in Christ in my iTunes rating. “I have issues.” I’m not saying I’m perfect. But what I’m saying is if we’ve been given a platform for the Lord, He is going to hold us accountable for how we use it. And in these uncertain days, our time is way better spent witnessing for Christ rather than lobbying for the devil. 

I will continue to listen and watch this podcast. Because I’m not throwing away all the good that they’ve done on the 50 other shows I’ve listened to, because of one bad day. For the record, the other two on the pod cast who are his family, never defended him. They however, didn’t call him out very well. I said all that to get to the point of my bible journaling pic… Life is war. We have to be confident in our battle and we have to be bold in our stand! Don’t destroy your testimony by defending bad behavior. Just own it… and move on.  

Posted in Bible Journaling, Faith, Forgiveness, Life Inspiration, Prayer, Word of God

I’m optimistic, not stupid

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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 not a Jeanie in a Bottle.” And that is truthfully how some people treat God. They forget Him for 364 days and then on the tragedy of the 365th they want God to pull their butts out of the fire. I said, we’re gettin’ real here today. I’m not throwing stones. I too have been guilty of ignoring God’s warning and then when all heck breaks loose, I want Him to fix it. It’s the way of human nature. And sometimes He does, and sometimes He lets me feel the heat of the fire. 

Isaiah speaks a needful word to the children of Israel 700 – 651 B.C. (ish) in chapter 48. But not just for them, it’s a great word for the Christians of 2020.

So, you call yourself a Christian…

Isaiah 48:2-14 KJVS

[2] For they call themselves of the holy city, and stay themselves upon the God of Israel; The Lord of hosts is his name.

It’s my biggest pet peeve. Those who call themselves a Christian but could never be convicted of it for lack of evidence. And God is speaking to the children of Israel on the same matter. “So, you say your from my town, where’s the proof?”

It’s why, when things such as the Coronavirus comes into our lives, people are ill equipped to handle it. They say they have a relationship with God, but there’s no confidence of it when facing theirs and other people’s mortality. That’s when the rubber meets the road. Believe me when I say I’ve gotten the t-shirt. It fits on a little teddy bear 🧸 that says West Virginia University Hospital which I received during heart surgery so that I could hug it when I needed to cough following open heart surgery. I had been warned, “eat better, exercise, etc., etc.” Yes God, I’ll get to it. And I did not. And I paid the price. But praise God when I went through the fire, I had the confidence to make it through un-singed because I had a relationship with Him. Do you? In these troubling days are you confident that regardless of the outcome He’s bringing you out! Or can you feel the flames flickering at your heels?

So, you’re trusting in this world….

 [3] I have declared the former things from the beginning; and they went forth out of my mouth, and I shewed them; I did them suddenly, and they came to pass. [4] Because I knew that thou art obstinate, and thy neck is an iron sinew, and thy brow brass; [5] I have even from the beginning declared it to thee; before it came to pass I shewed it thee: lest thou shouldest say, Mine idol hath done them, and my graven image, and my molten image, hath commanded them.

I see it every day. It makes me nauseous. If you’re reading this, you’re likely not one of them, else you’d not take the time to study God’s word. But they’re in the world and unfortunately their in our families. Those who still don’t see the need in turning to God and renewing their relationship with Him. Or discovering the need to have a relationship with Him.

God calls Israel a stiff neck, brow brassed nation. Hello. He’s callin’ em out! I guess that’s what I’m doing today. What are your trusting in to bring you through COVID19. And do you actually believe that you are untouchable?

[6] Thou hast heard, see all this; and will not ye declare it ? I have shewed thee new things from this time, even hidden things, and thou didst not know them. [7] They are created now, and not from the beginning; even before the day when thou heardest them not; lest thou shouldest say, Behold, I knew them. [8] Yea, thou heardest not; yea, thou knewest not; yea, from that time that thine ear was not opened: for I knew that thou wouldest deal very treacherously, and wast called a transgressor from the womb. [9] For my name’s sake will I defer mine anger, and for my praise will I refrain for thee, that I cut thee not off. [10] Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.

I read those verses and thought… that’s why we’re still here in the midst of this crisis. God’s not about to let man say “I brought you out.” He’s allowing us to be in this furnace of affliction to not only get our attention, but to let us know… again… Who is in control. He’s deferring His anger. 

So, you thought it was about you?

Ha! Not so. That’s where the arrogance of man gets us into trouble. It’s always about us, right? 

[11] For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it : for how should my name be polluted? and I will not give my glory unto another. [12] Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the first, I also am the last. [13] Mine hand also hath laid the foundation of the earth, and my right hand hath spanned the heavens: when I call unto them, they stand up together. [14] All ye, assemble yourselves, and hear; which among them hath declared these things ? The Lord hath loved him: he will do his pleasure on Babylon, and his arm shall be on the Chaldeans.

God tells Israel they’ll be restored. But it’s not that they didn’t have to go through some no good, very, very bad days. But when they came out of Egypt, and when they come out of the end days of this world, there will be no doubt WHO brought them out. And because of that history, it’s why I can say in the midst of this furnace, I’m believing in the miracle that God will bring us out of COVID19 in a miraculous way. Because He’s tired of this world too, but He still defers His anger at this present time. 

So yes, I’m optimistic! But I’m not foolish enough to think that there is not always repercussion for sin and arrogance. I’m praying for our nation, I’m praying and believing that I’ll be in church on Easter Sunday wearing my new dress with the rest of the church around me. Do I know it to be true. Nope. But I know it could be!!! Glorraaaay!

Posted in Bible Journaling, doodles, Life Inspiration, Word of God

The Bible According to Satan

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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, without hesitation or regret, loved. I don’t always feel that way. And given any time at all to think and I will pick my faults to death. But with a few markers, some happy thoughts and a little time in God’s word, I wrote myself happy. It was needful. 

When I catch the news or social media clips I hear the Bible according to Satan.

We expect you to suffer long, we are unkind, and we envy one another. We vaunt (praise) ourselves for our knowledge and we puff ourselves up. We behave unseemly, but we judge the behavior of others. We are provoked by good, but we think and encourage evil. We rejoice in iniquity, there is no truth in us. We help no one, we believe in no one, have no hope, offer no hope and  tolerate no one. We fail. 

But listen to the word of God!

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

[4] Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, [5] Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; [6] Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; [7] Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. [8] Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 

Children of God, love each other. Take care of each other. Pray for each other. Rejoice in God’s word and we believe in His hope! God is love, therefor Love never fails. That is my hope this morning! I hope that it is yours. Turn off the television and tune into the word of God and encourage yourself in the only known truth in this world we live in!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Prayer

It’s not that He will, It’s that He can!

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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 into the ruler’s house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise, [24] He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. [25] But when the people were put forth, he went in, and took her by the hand, and the maid arose. [26] And the fame hereof went abroad into all that land.

The Music Makers

That’s what captivated my mind. Why were they playing music in the ruler’s house when they’d just announced that his daughter had died? So, my first thought was, “Oh, well that makes sense. Music brings comfort.” But no, that wasn’t it at all! Upon studying it out, I find that the music makers were there to create atmosphere of mourning. What? I doubt they needed help in that respect. They’d just lost a child! 

As it turns out there were people paid to mourn and create a somber, sad ambiance among the people in the home. The minstrels were thought to have used pipes, such as the pan flute that omits a low, mournful tone. Although I downloaded some not so mournful sounds in my research on iTunes. There was to be no less than two musicians, but the richer, or more prominent the person was, the more they had. 

It reminded me of the story of an old friend, whose wife’s family owned a funeral home. The wife of the funeral home director would run in to any funeral, whether she knew them or not and wail and weep over the deceased to makes sure the family got their money’s worth. Merrill used to laugh and tell that story again and again. I enjoyed it every time! But there was nothing amusing about these mourners, they were serious and they wanted to create a serious mood. They for certain didn’t appreciate Happy Jesus coming in and disrupting their depression with sounds of jubilation. 

As I read the phrase “Give place: for the maid is not dead,” I wanted to lift my hands and choo choo around the room. Jesus turned every funeral He attended into a party.  But what about those music makers? Where do they fit in? The same place they do today…

They’re Misery Makers

I know I’m a cockeyed optimist. I always see the glass half full. I want to be like the woman with the issue of blood whose story was also in the miracle sandwich. She believed in the ridiculous. Just a few verses before, it said that she had had that issue of blood for 12 years. Nobody could fix it. But Jesus fixed it with a second of faith!  I’m believing that for the Coronavirus. It inundates my thoughts day and night. I’m concerned for the souls that don’t know my Lord. But I’ll not be a misery maker. I’m not going to tout that this world is doomed. I’m going to speak a message of positivity until the Lord tells me otherwise. Because if Jesus can heal that issue; if Jesus can raise a child from the dead, He can turn this virus around on a dime. The world would have you believe otherwise. Satan loves to encourage hopelessness. He thrives on it. The minstrels job was literally to incite sadness, and I fully believe that’s what the media believes it’s role now is.

They’ll get out their pan flutes and play songs of melancholy to drag us into the pits of despair. If anyone had a reason to join the in the music it was the ruler who had just lost his child. But he did not! He followed Jesus in faith and watched as mourners became scorners. And then glory to God he watched as his little girl awoke and the fame spread throughout the land. She’s alive!!! 

Those misery makers are alive and well today. I hear them on the news, in the grocery store, over the telephone. It doesn’t have to be a funeral. They’ll use any reason discourage the children of God from having hope! I wont’ do it. I believe!

The Miracle Maker

Will Jesus squelch this virus? I don’t know, I’m not God. But I believe when the woman got down on her knees and pressed through the crowd that day, risking being ostracized, risking her very life, she didn’t think He could heal her, she knew He could. She didn’t know that He would, but she knew that He could. 

That’s how I believe when it concerns this virus. I’m not gong to fall victim to the “gloom, despair, and agony on me” song as the HeeHaw gang used to sing. I’m going to wait for Jesus to say as He did to the woman with the issue of blood, “your faith has made you whole.” As He did the rulers daughter, “Arise!” It’s not time to lie down, it’s time to kneel down. 

We don’t know God’s plan. But for certain, we know God ability! Believe church! And pray in faith believing.

Posted in Bible Journaling, Faith, Health, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Praise, Prayer

The COVID19 Game Changer

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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 feed and water the chickens. I was the broadcaster of our Sunday service so I was under the spout where the glory comes out. But from my mother’s stand point, I realize the world is not so blessed. 

I imagined a true quarantine being much like that of the leper’s in biblical days. Luke 17 has the story of 10 very famous men of quarantine that I thought were a good illustration for a message on the Statewide day of Prayer. I personally don’t know much about our Governor Jim Justice, but I must say that I was very touched as he announced the Day of Prayer. It seemed heart felt as he (under comment persecution) said that we needed to spend the day lifting our precious people to the Lord. Glory! I say! It may not seem like much to the world, but us of faith know that prayer can be a game changer!

The Day of Prayer

Luke 17:11-17 KJVS

[11] And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. [12] And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:

THEY WERE QUARANTINED

It was a desperate time for them. Much like we are experiencing now. There was no cure and there was no hope without God’s intervention. These men could not experience family, nor could they experience love and hope. They were social outcasts and loudly humiliated having to yell to those who walked near them “unclean, unclean!” So they’d know not to be socialized with. How sad. But today, those who wish to stay well are the ones having to distance themselves from others. And the disease is silent. 

The Day of Proclamation 

THEY WERE NOT QUIET 

[13] And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. [14] And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. 

Just like now! Today we need to cry as the lepers did, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” Those who are saying separate church and state obviously have no concept of hopelessness. Their hope is in this world which is nuts! There is no hope outside of the Lord’s intervention in this day we are in. The fact that our Governor (who personally doesn’t strike me as a man of faith, and that’s me being judgey in all honesty) gives me great hope! Because I don’t think that decision came easy for him. He knew there would be ramifications from a liberal thinking society who wants to throw God under the bus at every opportunity, forgetting that He is the only one with a license to drive. 

Today is our opportunity to cry out to the Lord for healing! It’s not a time to be quiet. It’s also not a time to doubt. Before they had experienced the healing, Christ’s order was for them to go tell the priests they were healed. Hmmmm. Should that not tell us something. We’ve got to have faith going into this that God will do what He says! 

2 Chronicles 7:14 KJVS

[14] If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

He’ll heal our land! But it takes a humbleness to acknowledge that God is God! And that He will do what He says if we do what we are asked to do.

The Day of Promise

ONE WAS QUICK TO PRAISE, NINE WERE QUICK TO FORGET

[15] And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, [16] And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. [17] And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?

The fact that scripture mentions that the one who turned back to praise God was a Samaritan, makes me wonder if the nine were not Jews? It also makes me think of our own religious tribes who will say “these people only cry to God because they are desperate, not because they know Him” which is probably true. But it still didn’t stop God from healing them. And it caused the Samaritan to acknowledge that Christ was God. And the religious went on and enjoyed their healing. God’s not in religion, He’s in relationships. He wants us to spend time getting to know Him, to turn back! Just as it said in 2 Chronicles. Then we receive the promise. 

President Trump’s Easter wish. I heard and seen the mocking of the President’s desire for the country to be back to normal by Easter. Well, I bet their were mockers of the lepers to, who cried out to God. Well… who’s laughing now? 

That’s going to be a part of my prayer today! “Lord heal our land, and please do it by Easter!” 

Will He? I don’t know, I’m not God. But I know Him and I know He can. And I want Him to shut that liberal, Devil servin’ crowd up!  I want Easter Sunrise services across our country to have new life and great praise!

Amen! 

Where ever you are, PRAY! PROCLAIM OUR GOD AND HIS PROMISES

Posted in Bible Journaling, Evangelism, Faith

The Invisible Enemy and the Visible Hope

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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 many Christians are buying into the lies of Satan (and the media) that we have reason to allow our emotions to control our lives rather than faith.

This is not a bash against people who have fear of the Coronavirus. I won’t say that I have fear, but I certainly have concern. I wash my hands after someone looks my direction. My skin is dry and cracking because of the hand sanitizer. I have no intentions of stopping that, I think it’s good hygiene as well as precautionary against the virus. What I do not do is allow the virus to control my thoughts. My thoughts are truly focused on those living in fear, and I have a desire to share the message of God that cries Peace!!! Just as Jesus spoke that over the water when the storm came and scared the disciples to death. Hey! They were saved… it didn’t stop their fear, so we’re in good company. Jesus calmed the water, and He’s doing the same for folks today but we have to take the time to sit a spell, and listen to what He saying.  Rather than running in fear of an invisible enemy, which takes faith… you have to believe it’s there, even though it may not be, use that faith to trust in the invisible God, Who has proven Himself there time and time again. 

I’m speaking to the saved. Those who have experienced God. If you’re not saved, or you’re not sure, keep reading until the end, your message will be there. But as for those who know Jesus and yet live in fear, ask yourself this question: Why are you fearful? Are you afraid of the virus, death, the economical effects… there’s plenty of fear to go around. Satan has every base covered and we’re heading around the home plate. This is not shaming you for your lack of faith, this is spoken in hopes of shoring up your faith. 

Let’s look at Moses. He had faith to follow God’s instruction to be a leader, yet not enough faith to have confidence in his own leadership. That describes me so often. 

Playing for the Home Team

Hebrews 11:24-32 KJVS

[24] By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; [25] Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; [26] Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.

When Moses was “come to years” meaning when he had matured, he refused to be called someone he wasn’t called to be. Even though that meant stepping away from the comforts of everything he’d ever known. That’s what faith is. It’s what getting up in the morning and stepping outside the door is. We have to believe that even though this isn’t a comfortable place to be in, God is there with us, and that’s way better than being outside of Christ. The knowledge that Moses was switching to his home team gave him confidence to face his greater fears. 

I didn’t mean for this to be a baseball analogy, but it’s working, right?

Plagues for the Away Team

 [27] By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. [28] Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.

Plagues of the literal sense for the Egyptians, not for the children of God. But that’s not the day we’re living in, this plague can attack the saved and unsaved alike. The clean and unclean, it matters not. But what seems to be a greater plague on America right now is the consistent plague of fear and confusion. People have no clue who to trust. Scripture is clear who the author of confusion is in 1 Corinthians 14:33

For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace as in all churches of the saints. 

At this time in scripture people were causing confusion in the churches which was disrupting the confidence people had in the Lord. hello? Sound familiar? They were speaking things that people didn’t understand, it almost sounds like someone was having a liberal press conference. It’s what happens when people don’t read their Bible. The world speaks gibberish and they buy it as truth. 

Not knowing the truth will cause panic. But understanding that regardless of how this thing unfolds, our Lord’s got it every bit in control, will bring peace and confidence that we’ll be okay. And if we run out of toilet paper, there’s options. Just saying. It’s not the end of the world. But as for the away team, those who don’t know Christ as their Savior. There is no peace or anyone to have confidence in unless it’s mislead. It pays to be on the Home Team!

Planning for the Game

Everybody has to have a game plan and every team needs a leader. When Moses took off with the millions of Israel, He didn’t have any plan, other than to follow God’s leading. That’s how we have to plan each day now. I’m not a scientist, I can’t search for a cure. But I can practice social distancing, wash my hands, and stay home as much as possible. That’s what my leaders have said to do. I figure if I follow those guidelines, I’ll likely be okay. But what happens if bad things happen?

 [29] By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land : which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. [30] By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. [31] By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace. [32] And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:

Moses when through the sea being chased by Pharaoh’s army and the enemy drowned! Joshua went into the Promised land and had battles ahead, but God fought the battle! Rahab risk her life for God’s people, Gideon fought a battle using a pitcher and stick and fooled the army that sought his life. How many battles did David win and how may times did Samuel warn. Glory to God we serve an invisible Savior but His victories are evident!!

Yes! I just wrote myself happy.

We have to strategize for the coming weeks. Plan accordingly as we can, but trust God for everything uncertain! And do not fear. That is Satan’s tool to keep you miserable. Make the most of every day in your home. I’m looking around at a mess right now thinking… I perhaps should spend my time more wisely. 

And for those who don’t know Christ. You cannot have hope outside of Him. He is the way to victory regardless of what life brings on us. Please,, ask questions, seek answers, God will provide and if you need help message me! I’d be glad to help you find answers

Posted in Bible Journaling, Evangelism, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration, salvation, Uncategorized, Word of God

Saved in Such a Time as This

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Saved in Such a Time as This

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 of deliverance. Selah.

Good verse for the day! But before I could claim it as a word for myself I needed to find the context of the writer. What was he going through, was there social distancing in his life at the time? This Psalm, as so many other was written by David. One of the most “in touch” men of all ages, who experienced social distancing on more than one occasion, not by choice. I’m not sure at what point in his life this Psalm was written, but for some reason he took it upon himself to give instruction from personal experience so that we too might live better lives. 

There is no Social Distancing With God!

Psalm 32:1-11 KJVS

[1] Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. [2] Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.[3] When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long. [4] For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah. [5] I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord ; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah. [6] For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found: surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him.

There are many, many blessings of salvation, but the greatest of all is the forgiveness of sin which allows us not to have social distancing from the Lord. It’s the greatest thing on earth to feel as though you’re sitting right beside Him in the room as you pray, read His word or worship. David knew the separation sin caused… but he more importantly knew the fellowship of God that forgiveness brought! The world can order us away from one another, but it can never order us away from the Spirit of God! Glory!

He is our Sanctuary of Deliverance!

[7] Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah. [8] I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.

When the world lets us down for answers, it is for certain God never will. I watched an update of President Trump yesterday with regard to COVID19. While he was doing his best to stay positive and calm his troubled nation, the media was doing their very best to undermine everything he was saying. I loved it when the President set them straight like the toddlers they are. But it still doesn’t do anything to calm the concerns of the people, especially those who don’t know Christ. I have a feeling that David death with the same nonsense within the confines of his people. They loved stirring him up! But David knew, and share with his people the one sure place of peace in the days of trouble. The instruction of God which comes from His word. Hallelujah we still have it today!

Don’t be Stubborn, but rather Determined

They often look the same. David warned about it in the final verses of Psalm 32.

[9] Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee. [10] Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about. [11] Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.

I have a stubborn streak for certain. Especially when it comes to the church. I detest this social distancing. I need my people! My heart cries out “Let’s meet anyway,” and then my Lord cries within “I feel it too Shari, but my people need their safety, and I am with you all.” This is such a good word for me today… not because I’m writing it, but because the Lord gave it to me for such a time as this. On a day when I am discouraged about God’s people not being able to meet. There is a reason the Bible says “forsake not the assembling of yourselves.” We need one another. 

So tomorrow I will meet brother Roger Carter at the church who will preach our Sunday sermon in a new way. It will not doubt be a test for us both. But then we will share it to social media which gives us great distance (as in reach) And who knows who might be stirred to come to the saving grace of Jesus Christ and know the peace that we know in the storms of life.

I don’t profess to have the answers to this new normal, but I know Who has it fully in His control and will use it for His glory. But we must not be stubborn and require being drug to our next destination. But rather willing vessels of God that He can use us from where ever we are because He is within us! 

Glory! I’m glad I’m saved!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service

We’re Not There Yet

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on We’re Not There Yet

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 my attention or the world’s attention?” All good questions, and questions I’ve asked myself concerning COVID-19. I seem to go from one extreme to the other myself: thinking one minute “why is the world in this panic?” And then swinging far into the other direction and thinking “yikes! That’s why!” It’s another crazy day in the world, and I can fit right in. So this morning I turn to my one true source of news, the Word of God and asked the question “Lord, why is this plague upon us?”

Now… I’m not prophesying. I’m just asking God, because He’s my ‘go to’ for such questions. And I know if I’m going to make any sense out of this nonsensical world, I’m heading in the right direction by going into the living word of God.

A Future Plague

There is no doubt in my mind that COVID 19 will literally seem like the sniffles by comparison to the plagues of Revelation 15. And for a world that’s always looking for a “sign”; by the time this one is upon them, they’ll not be looking any longer. But for now we’re in the precursor days of Revelation 15. So what are we to do? Ignore it? No, that would not be the answer. Trust God? Of course, but trusting in God does not mean sitting idly by watching the world go nuts. God expects His children to be busy. Busy doing what? I’m glad you ask!

There is Victory

Revelation 15

[1] And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God. [2] And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.

Is it time to play the victory song? I’m always looking for a reason. But we’re not there yet. This world is still in a panic, the medical and science community doesn’t have the answers and life is inconvenient. Which makes people insane. Imagine how John felt on the isle of Patmos as he wrote the book of Revelation and was seeing those visions of the end of time. I’m sure toilet paper was not high on his list of priorities. Did they even have it back then?  For certain there was no Walmart. So who were those who had gotten the victory over the beast? I’m not sure you want to know…

The beast was the antichrist who had overcame the saints and killed them, but they who had won the victory, were the children of God who had overcome the antichrist by the blood of the Lamb!

Anyone who dies in Christ, (meaning that they are saved) has won the victory. But we don’t see it like that from our worldly view because we want the ending that has everyone well, and this virus ended! Yes Amen! But we don’t see things as God sees them. While there are those that will say this is the wrath of God playing out, I will not be one of those, because I haven’t a clue what God’s intentions are. I only know that He can and will use everything that happens in this life to draw us to Him if we’ll allow. That is the victory that I feel this morning as I read His word!

There is a Song to Sing

 [3] And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. [4] Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.

God is Just and True and the King of His people. How wonderful to serve Him even in this corrupt world. To know that there is coming a day when the devastation will be done and gone and we will live in peace. But for now, we live here. Serving Him and trying to get as many people to understand that there will come a day when God will allow us to understand it all (when things will be “made manifest.) But for now we are to continue on, living by faith, looking for the good and the opportunities to show people the reason we sing.

I wrote a new song yesterday called “In this new day.” The lyrics came easy,  but not the tune. I still haven’t got that settled. I think that’s kind of how I feel about the world right now. I know there’s a reason to sing in all this, but I just don’t have the tune yet. I’m waiting for God to show me the victory.

There is a God of Glory

I cannot see Him, but I can feel Him. When I read the final verses of chapter 15, I feel the end of time playing out. I haven’t a clue when that will be, but it will be.

[5] And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened: [6] And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles. [7] And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever. [8] And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from his power; and no man was able to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled.

There are angels in Heaven with God. In that spiritual realm. But that temple is still filled with smoke from the glory of God and no man can enter in until the end of time. God is apparent, but not transparent. Those who see Him, who feel Him and know Him have to know Him from the spiritual side of life. The world wants to see Him plain and clear. That’s not gonna happen until it’s too late for those who don’t accept Him as He is now. By faith.

The God of glory has every right to pour out His wrath on a world that doesn’t acknowledge Him as their creator. But if He did it wouldn’t just be COVID-19. As bad as that is, it’s not Revelation 15 worthy. Praise God we’re not there yet and there is still time to serve the Lord in his day! Praise His Holy Name! Let’s do it

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith

What are you building on

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on What are you building on

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 it’s not really meant to be. It’s meant more to be an awakening for anyone attending such a church. I’m not casting stones, because I can lose my way on any given day as to the purpose of why I’m on this earth. And that is to serve God, and see souls saved. I believe that very few people in any congregation feel it’s their responsibility to win souls. O perhaps they know it, but how many act on it.? Myself include. That breaks my heart.

It’s easy peasy for me to write words… well, not always, but it is something I consider a gift. But it’s not as easy to be the mouth piece, face to face with someone that I believe is lost. It stems back to the foundation for which I was raised. I’m not knocking my parents, nor am I ungrateful for the upbringing I had. I was raised by parents of strong Christian values. But both of my parents are quiet in nature. Though my Dad is now in Glory… so maybe not! But neither were vocally outspoken with regards to anything. They were by definition, meek. I on the other hand, and a few other of my siblings were loud by nature. We were the polar opposites of Mother and Dad. True story! I no doubt drove them to edge of crazy. That sounds like a new song title 🙂

But that foundation started me on a path of not offending. And bold faith offends. It’s hard for me confront someone with regards to their faith, when I know it’s likely going to hurt the feelings. That is not my nature. I’m loud… but I’m not mean. And for the record, neither is God!

When I first got saved in 1996, the Pastor was tough, but tender. God used him to usher me into service by allowing me to slowly understand the character of God. The Old Testament was filled with confusing ideals for me. How could a loving God allow children to die in the battles? How could He wipe out all the earth in the days of Noah? The images in my mind were gut wrenching. But through patient discipleship I began to see how a loving God was protecting His children. I had never seen my parents angry, but had someone messed with one of us, I have a feeling I would have! But God… though I’ve not “seen” God, I’ve seen the effects of His anger and read the historical facts; and even I, raised in a non-violent, non-disciplinary home, get it. Don’t mess with God’s children. When I seen the results of the disobedience to God’s commands, the destruction of souls and ruination of nations, I was grateful for patient teaching that brought me out of dead religion and their theology for which I’ll call the religion of “N.O.P.E.” Not Offending People Ever.”

So, as you can see from paragraph one, I’ve gone past that. So here’s my question, “What is your faith built on?” Read the scripture and then answer the 4 questions that follow.

Matthew 7:21-29 KJVS

[21] Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? [23] And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. [24] Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: [25] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. [26] And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: [27] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. [28] And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: [29] For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

  1. What was your “experience” of Salvation like? (Describe it)
  2. What is the “joy” of your salvation? (Testify about it)
  3. What is the “assurance” of your salvation?
  4. Do you know that you know you are saved?

These are questions I have to ask myself too! And they are the driving force of my boldness for Christ. Because prior to 1996 I couldn’t answer any of them and I lived in fear of Hell.

Salvation changed every fiber in my being. I was indeed made new. I would have said Lord, Lord. But He didn’t know me. But following that transformation of salvation I lived and breathed with a desire to serve God. I’ve failed that mission many times, but I still live it.

The joy of my salvation is the realization that God not only saved me from the Devil’s Hell, but He now walks with me and speaks to my soul. The God of all the universe, the One Whose hand is the span of Heaven, is on a first name basis with me, every day. And my faith is Rock Solid and unwavering, because when that fear disappeared, it was amazing!!!!

I know that I know, because when the storms of life have come, and they’ve been many, but far less than I deserve, my faith still didn’t waver. And I felt the rain and the floods come. But, rather than the old Shari, which would have cowered in fear, I faced the rains and received a flood of peace in my soul! Glory to God it was amazing!!!  Yes, I know that I know!

But do you?

It’s not my intent to cause you to doubt, it’s my intent to make sure you’re building on the Solid Rock, not the sands of this world.

Ephesians 2:8-9

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast.

Salvation isn’t about what I do, but rather my belief in what He did. That being said, armed with that knowledge, and that assurance and hope should cause your life to look differently than the worlds.

John 5:24

Verily, Verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on Him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but be passed from death unto life.

Are you truly living for Him? Do you know your purpose in the realm of eternity?

Matthew 7:21

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Do you have a desire to do God’s will? Are you doing it?

1 John 5:13

These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. 

He wants us to know that we know. I pray you do. If you have questions, please, please message them to me. I’d love to be a part of your coming into that knowledge. I don’t know everything, but I know Who does!