Category: Christian Service

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Eternity, Grace, Leadership, Life Inspiration

Those in Denial Need Not Respond

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I KNOW WHO CAN!

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 system. I’m praying that as I go along I’m in the Spirit, not the flesh. I can assure you that one of those is far easier than the other. I’ve been very outspoken about my political stand lately. Because it has spiritual repercussions that are far beyond what most people in this world understand. And no, I’m not saying that I’m a spiritual genius. Far from it. But what I am is informed and in tune with the Spirit of God. And I’ll not apologize or back down from what I believe is truth. 

The Final Debate:

Even in the midst of it (the Presidential debate) last night, a person I adore,  sent me a post of our President from 1999 about a statement he had made about being pro-choice. What do I have to say about that? “Praise God he changed his mind! And I’m glad that my decisions of 20 years ago are under grace. Now let’s talk about today.” Man (and woman) are as unstable as cooked spaghetti. But God… 

For I am the Lord, I change not, therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. ~ Malachi 3:6

There is no debate with God. He doesn’t change His mind, nor does He change His ways, and He for certain hasn’t changed His attitude toward sin. Let me speak from the heart, when I say that my decision to vote for President Trump, to respect the man that God put into office, has nothing to do with who he was in 1999 or any year prior to 2020. My decision was made from information obtained from media sources that isn’t in the hands of the government. CNN, NBC, CBS and unfortunately parts of FOX could be called “the State News.” I literally stay tuned in no less than 6-8 hours a day. I’m not kidding. That doesn’t mean that I’m sitting glued to it. It just means that its playing in the background of whatever I’m doing. 

What makes me so sure that my news is different? Because the world hates them.

“Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.”  ~ 1 John 3:13

“If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.” ~ John 15:18

“The world cannot hate you, but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil.” ~ John 7:7

Woah baby, that sums it up, does it not? The world hates the truth. The Democrats (nationally) have gone after President Trump since 2016 because he didn’t play politics. For him it wasn’t about making a name for himself, he already had. (And not always a good one.) But it was about his stewardship. He took this country out of the  economic demise it was in and put us back up on less than shaky ground. Far from out of trouble, but far from the trouble the democratic government had us in. He spoke to men and women of God and accepted their prayer and proclaimed the name of Jesus Christ.

But they were offended. Accusing him of using Christ’s name as a political tactic. But they didn’t mind Obama using Ala? Hmmmm, I wonder why? Why would anyone who calls themselves a Christian, be offended by a President who prays in the name of Christ Jesus or gives credence to those who preach in His name. 

Look at King Darius of the days of Daniel. When he was anything but a Jehovah God worshipper and yet by Daniel’s life and testimony he decreed this:

“I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: for he is the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be even unto the end.” ~ Daniel 6:26

He knew Daniel’s God was the true God. I believe the same of President Trump. There were times when President Trump would have made the mistakes of Darius, but he’s came a long way because he has surrounded himself, not with politicians, (although they’re their) but he has included, into the mix, God’s people as well. Including a Vice President who is a wonderful outspoken unapologetic Christian man.  Glory to God! I just wrote myself happy. 

Biden and Harris are corrupt people who have made millions off the American people at the expense of their families. I’m not saying that in judgement. It’s a fact. It is no wonder they see nothing wrong with killing children, because they don’t care for their own. I’ll not apologize for that. Like I said, I’ve been watching an unbiased news and I know the truth because the Spirit of God reveals it to me when I ask. Do I believe every word out of the mouth of every person on the news I watch. 

In the words of Biden himself, “Come on man….” 

“Let me be weighed in an even balance, that God may know mine integrity.” ~ Job 31:6

I’ll stand accountable for what I say. Not what anyone else says. But when I hear the truth and the Spirit says listen… I do. And for the record, When we all stand before God, he’s not going to say, “Well done thou faithful Democrat or Republican,” but rather SERVANT. And if you’re serving baby killers, then you are serving the god Molech. Be not deceived. 

This election isn’t about money. It’s about evil and control. If you are a professed child of God, I beg of you. Hit your knees and ask God to reveal the truth. He is faithful. We have two weeks to decide whether or not this nation ends up in the lions den with or without angels. Right now there is a spiritual realm waiting God’s direction, and God knows the outcome. 

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: ~ 1 Peter 5:8

There will not be a final debate in the presence of God. His Word is final.

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Faith, Family, Life Inspiration

Was Jesus Being Rude

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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 him, calling him. [32] And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee. [33] And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother, or my brethren? [34] And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! [35] For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.

Those are not words that any mother would likely want to hear. But Mary wasn’t just any mother, and Jesus wasn’t just any Son. While I’m not Catholic, and I put no greater worth on Mary than any other child of God, she was still an amazing woman of God with many lessons to teach those of us who fall so short. Mainly me.

It doesn’t take very long into the study of this scripture until I realize just how meaningful Jesus’ words were, and how any Mother would have been proud to hear them proceed from her Son’s mouth. So let’s unpack, what could be a Christmas message for me. I seem to already be in that mode at my house, having recently bought serval new decorating pieces for the season. Hey… don’t be hatin’ on me for listening to Michael Bublé’s Christmas album already. 😃 

On the Outside Looking In

That was Mary and His brother’s place that day. They were not in the inner ⭕️ circle. At least not at that time. They had come upon Jesus speaking to a multitude of people, likely people of all socioeconomic statures from the least to the greatest. For some reason they’ve called Jesus to leave the crowd and come to them, but He declines. I can imagine His brothers, not being happy. They didn’t always understand that He was God. But Mary did. I imagine her saying, “Boys, get your knickers out of a knot, your Brother has work to do,” and I can imagine them rolling their eyes and wondering why she always made excuses for Him. Not everyone understands God’s ways.

Isaiah 55:8 KJVS

[8] For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.

On the Inside looking Out

That was the crowd’s vantage point. They no doubt recognized His mother, and wondered why He didn’t go to her. Perhaps they had the same thoughts as His brothers. But then the words settle on their hearts, “He loves us, as much as He loves them.” Only God can love like that. While I can love people, I can’t love a group of strangers to the depth I love those close to me in my life. How could that possibly be? Yet with Jesus our Lord, it was such a deep truth, that this same group of people watched it play out on the cross, and yet even  many of them may have been those rejecting Him as God. 

We are a flawed people. We certainly need a friend like Jesus, who loves us even though we’re total misfits. 

Is not it true today?There are those of us on the inner circle who understand the price God paid for us, and then there are those, who are oblivious to the fact He is God! And many times, even I, who know the price He willingly paid, am out of touch with Who He is. Yep, I’m a misfit. 

He’s Nowhere to be Seen

No, He’s really not. Because He no longer stands in the crowd, but His Spirit is within each of His children. And we experience something that only the mother of Christ experienced in the days of this scripture, and she only experienced it for 9 months. The Pentecost had not happened yet. Jesus was physically among them. But now each one of us carry Christ within us who have accepted Him as Savior and we have experienced a love like none other. This morning that thought amazed me. He is not only my friend, but He is my family. And because of Him, I have an extended family, many of whom I do not know and may not know until Heaven, but I can love them and have compassion on them because He has shown me how. Glory to God isn’t that wonderful. I have sisters and brothers in the physical sense, but I have them int he spiritual sense, and there will come a day when together, we’ll all experience Christ face to face,  without regard for who we are, but entirely 💯 percent focused on Him as Lord and with purity of thought where we will love everyone equal. Just as He does us. I am God’s favorite, I’ve always known it. But then again, so are you. God Bless ya!!!!!! From Shari, The Jesus Chick.

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

To the Empty Seats in the Church

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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 in reading chapter 20 this morning, I wept, as if I were apart of the story, even knowing that the two friends are now together in the presence of the Lord! The empty seat was more than my heart could bear without breaking. Because, David would have rather been in that seat than anywhere and continue on with his friend in the work of the King, but, because of a threat against his life by Jonathan’s own father, he could not. And so he leaves the city. His final few minutes with Jonathan are gut wrenching as they bow, weep, kiss and depart.

1 Samuel 20:41 KJVS

And as soon as the lad was gone, David arose out of a place toward the south, and fell on his face to the ground, and bowed himself three times: and they kissed one another, and wept one with another, until David exceeded.

David’s heart was broken to the point he “exceeded” Jonathan. David was not only leaving his best friend, but his wife and family as well. And on top of all that, and probably the straw that broke the camel’s back, David would no longer be in the sanctuary of His God in service. And with that thought, I know why God brought me to this scripture this morning. 

As I prayed this morning for many of the people on our prayer list, I began perusing the seats of our church with my minds eye. While our attendance has been okay, and I consider us blessed, there are still many empty seats. I’ve been at Victory 24 years. In the same seat most of those 24. Front row, center aisle. Most everyone else has their selected area too. We really don’t mind if someone is in our seat,  we just happen to be creatures of habit. And because of that I can almost do a role call in my mind of who was in Church on Sunday, and unfortunately, who’s seat was empty. 

An empty seat in the house of God is more than a number. It’s a friend. Perhaps the reason they are gone is because of something wonderful, like a wedding, a vacation or some other celebratory event. (Like a kidney transplant) Cheryl Metheney 🙌🏼 But at this point in time, its most likely because the enemy has threatened harm. There is an arrow that has been aimed, not only a physical arrow of COVID-19, but a spiritual arrow that is designed to draw that soul away from the presence of friends and the encouragement that is garnered in the house of the Lord. Oh, my heart is as broken as Jonathan’s this morning for those empty seats…

Dave Stull, right side, third or fourth row up, Leona and Clay Yeager, Left side aisle seats, 2nd or 3rd row up from the back, Peggy and Terry Dye, left side, 4th or 5th row-ish, by the window, Charlie and Mandes Richards, same row, and that’s just one corner. There are many, many more. Ed and Patty Eisley, second row back, behind me, my bestie Glo! Front row, beside me. You are not forgotten this morning! Sandra Lancaster, Left side, third or fourth row up from the back, aisle seat, I could go all the way around the room, because I am in a house of friends. And an enemy has come and taken them away temporarily. Praise God the last time we were together we were not as Jonathan and David, we didn’t even know we were about to depart for a very long time. It’s been 7 months since many were in service. Yes, Satan has launched a very harsh blow on the fellowship of the believers. 

Everyone has to do what is right for themselves. But this is a reminder to all of us, just because the arrows been launched, doesn’t mean it’s going to hit; and while the day is upon us, we need to serve! Saul, Jonathan’s father, had earlier launched a javelin at David, but it missed! It wasn’t his time. David was going to miss his friend Jonathan and all of his family, but David wasn’t called just for the castle times, he was also called for the days of battle. David had some very troubled days that lie ahead of him, but he continued serving God. 

From a castle to a cave

1 Samuel 22:1-2 KJVS

[David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father’s house heard it, they went down thither to him. [2] And every one that was in distress, and every one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered themselves unto him; and he became a captain over them: and there were with him about four hundred men.

Troubled time for certain! Saul was after him, his rag tag army of men were not valiant soldiers (at least not yet) they were in distress, in debt and discontent! Wowzer! That sounds like the story of my life! But this same army ends up being warriors. And God will make no less of us in these days we’re facing. Whether you are privileged to continue on servicing in the house of the Lord as I have been, or your in your home because of this stupid virus, don’t stop serving!  You are a warrior on the rise! 

If you know David’s story, you know he made it out of the cave and back to the castle. He served God, he fought battles, he made very human mistakes and yet here he is in 2020, still a hero of the faith. Just like my friends that I miss so much at Victory Baptist Church. Granny and Genevieve (Right side, 2nd row back, aisle seats. My ornery friend Jim Bush and his sweet wife Barb, Right side, middle of the church, aisle seats. Linda Simers, part of the Stull tribe in the right hand corner, Jackie and Otis Harris, over by the window. Jim and Trish Harris and Trish’s Momma right behind them. Bob and Brenda Bush and Nic, right side, center of the church, Trooper Jeffrey Hunt bestie them. Many others who have been there when they could, but have not been there as much as they’d have liked. 

I know that most of us don’t feel on the level of David our hero of the faith most of the time. But the point of this ramble today is, you have that ability in you. David and his friends had days where that cave had to have gotten the best of them. But they were still victors! And so will you be. I miss you terribly. If you’re not a part of my church, I’m sure you’re church misses you terribly. But don’t give up and for certain, get out of that cave as soon as you can and get back to the castle. We’re waiting for you!  You are missed because you’re seat is empty.  

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism, Family, Peace, Political

Being on the Wrong Side of Politics can cost you

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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, they likely have turned me off anyway. And so I just decided that I stand not on the side of Trump, but on the side of Christ. And if He lead me to stand with President Trump, I would. And I believe He did.

It’s one of the reasons why I decided not to become a 501c3. You can’t take sides with the government, well, unless you’re on the liberal side and they’ll let you park there all day long. 

I have to ask myself, “Was Jesus involved in politics?” And then I think about Matthew the tax collector. Jesus hired him right out of politics. He knew there would be people who didn’t like Matthew because of his background, but He made him a disciple anyway; even let him write one of the gospels!  Glory! That puts a shout in my soul. Matthew was no longer a tax man, he was God’s man because Jesus called him out of it. 

And so it is that I too have been called out of the world of politics. I worked in it for years. I loved the people, but I hated the position. It left a bad taste in my mouth because I always had an opinion, and it usually went against what most others would say. And I’m still that same person, but with a focus on the office of the High Priest, and that lead me back to the office of the President of the United States. 

Jesus was having a conversation with a multitude of people; warning them agains the religious tribe who wanted to control them, not for God, but the power of it. Ugh… is that not what has become of our government. It’s indeed a power struggle, not a government for the people, by the people, but a government for the political. 

Jesus says in verse 1 “Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” He goes on to say that their sins will come to light, and that the world will know. And that’s exactly what we see happening in Washington. While they’re not the hierarchy of religion, you’d think they were. They’ve made themselves gods, to the point of controlling life and death. (i.e. ~ abortion, healthcare, etc.) All the while, we’re told to beware, and yet the liberal church appears to be oblivious to it and the sin that surrounds them. And its why as a child of God, I feel compelled to stand with President Trump. He’s not a perfect President! I get why people are so against him, but if they’d only look at what he stands for in comparison to the other side, there would be no doubt who’s side God is on. God would not be on the side of anyone for abortion, anyone for the pornography and filth that’s being used by the left (democrats) to educate our children. In the words of Biden himself…. “come on man.” That is so hypocritical it defies logic. 

Jesus’ conversation continues in chapter 12 and then comes to a head in verse 49-59:

Luke 12:49-59 KJV

[49] I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?

Jesus didn’t come to put out the fires, He came to start them! He knew that we would be the opposition in this wicked world, and so He advises us not to stand down, but rather stand out, even in the face of adversity with friends and family. 

I adore my family. They’re truthfully some of the nicest, compassionate people on earth. But not all of them stand with me on the side of Trump. Oh no…. there is a division. And so most of the time I keep my mouth shut for the sake of peace, until verse 51.

 [50] But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished! [51] Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: [52] For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. [53] The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.

Scripture also says in Matthew 12:25 that “every city or house divided against itself shall not stand.” So what has happened to the House of God? It is certainly divided. While they’ll say it’s wrong of a church to take a stand on politics, (and they shouldn’t tell anyone how to vote) it’s not wrong to stand on scripture. The Democrat party is anything but biblical. And the hierarchy of that organization is not the same as it was in the past. That’s where Christians have derailed. They’re saying, “but i disagree with those parts of the the democrat committee.” But your title says you don’t. 

Jesus said “Beware.” Be aware. Don’t stick your head in the sand. 

 [54] And he said also to the people, When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower; and so it is. [55] And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass. [56] Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time? [57] Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right? [58] When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison. [59] I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou hast paid the very last mite.

Being on the wrong side of politics will cost you. 

It may also cost your family it’s soul. I’m not here to play politics, I’m here to be the voice of the Savior Who is telling me  “Warn them Shari.” And so I do.  Warn your people too, please!

Posted in Christian Service, failure, Faith, Fear, Health, Life Inspiration, Political, Praise, Word of God

The Rona & the Radicals

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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 the crowd cheers as if I knew all along what happened. But a football analogy is kind of appropriate when it comes to speaking about the Rona (Corona Virus) and the Radicals, because apparently nobody can give us a clue about their next move either. And now pro football is completely political just like the virus and radicals. But the fear involved is very real for a lot of people. 

What do you fear most right now in your life? How much of your day does that fear monopolize? What would you rather be thinking about? Good questions to begin our topic of today. 

The Rona and the Radicals

Both are current events out of our control! When the disciples in Mark 6 were without Jesus on the boat in the middle of the storm, they were suddenly faced with the possibility of death. 

We know from experiencing storms that they either calm down, or grow more fierce and we can’t aid in either direction, we can only buckle down and get ready. Life is much the same way. There are some things right now that are so far out of control, it’s ridiculous. I have no problem comparing it to how the disciples must have felt before Jesus got tin the boat. 

But where we differ; Jesus is never outside of our boat!

Mark 6:46-53 KJVS

[46] And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. 

What do you suppose Jesus talked about with God that day? Do you think they discussed current events? I have to think they did. Not that either God or Jesus was surprised at any of the events, but maybe they talked about they human reaction of the people involved.

“Did you see the look on Peter’s face when he realized the bread basket wasn’t going empty, that was priceless!?”

What about the look on Matthew’s face when I told him to feed the 5,000 with that little bitty 🧺 basket! He almost swallowed his tongue trying to figure out the math on that one!

I would have loved to have been in on some of their conversations during Jesus’ prayer time.

But while Jesus was up in the hills talking to His Father, the disciples were down in the boat in the middle of a storm.  And it says they were toiling and rowing in contrary winds.

[47] And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land. [48] And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. [49] But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: [50] For they all saw him, and were troubled.

In the process of their fighting the waves, they were so caught up in that fight that they almost didn’t see Jesus walking on the water. But that was not a common happening in the day, or in our day! I don’t know if I seen Him walking that I would have immediately thought, “Oh, that’s gotta be Jesus, who else could do that?” No, I would have been shaking in my shoes, or worse! The same is true in the happenings of today. When something goes down with the virus or with the current uprising, I’m more apt to immediately feel fear of the unknown, rather than asking myself, “Okay, where is this coming from and who or what is responsible, and what should my reaction be.”

We are quick to say, oh, it’s Satan. While he’s having a field day, we can’t always blame him. Sometimes it’s evil people struggling for power. So once I’ve determined who might be responsible, what am I to do with that information in order to calm myself down. 

Do what they did. Talk to Jesus. 

 (50b) And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid.

Nothing said Jesus started the storm. But He showed up in the middle of it and talked to them and told them to “be of good cheer.” I can’t help but sing the song, “don’t worry, be happy.” 

I think it’s important for us to key in on the fact that it didn’t say Jesus started the storm. God is not starting this nonsense in our world today. But He for certain is here with us and He’s telling us, “Don’t be afraid, I have this under control.” The question is, are we talking to Him, and then listening to Him. 

He’s not going to come in and stand in the middle of the room, but through prayer and the Bible we can get the peace we need to calm our souls in the middle of the storm. 

Don’t forget your miracles. 

 [51] And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. [52] For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened.

They were “sore amazed.” They just couldn’t believe that Jesus did that. Well that might be our problem too, When we’re in the middle of a miracle, we’re like, “Yeah baby, that’s my God!” But then we get in the middle of a crisis, and we think, “this is it, we’re going down!” 

What happened to our miracle mentality? And I don’t mean Moses parting the water, but the very fact that God is Who scripture says He is.   He spoke the world into existence. And this world is trying to speak us out of existence. He parted the water, He really did. He fed the 5,000. That’s not a fable, He really did that, He has huge plans for us, but we’re letting the current state of our world cloud our thoughts until we can’t see or remember those miracles of God. 

When I started watching blaze news, it was almost more than I could stomach. It often times caused anxiety. So I have to keep life in perspective, even watching a show that focuses much of the news on Bible. Every day we are given the opportunity to live our lives in a way that shows our faith in God or our fear of the world. 

What’s scaring you today? Who’s responsible? Where is God in it? How is He speaking to you? Those are the questions that we need to ask. Maybe even journal. It would be interesting to read what some of our thoughts today are, or a year from now, or a decade… or maybe we won’t even have to read it…Maybe Jesus will come back and we can just go home! Glorrraaay! 

But until then. Let’s keep telling the world about the amazing God we serve, so that they will desire what we have. 

Posted in Christian Service, Life Inspiration

God Doesn’t Take Antacids

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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) common man can identify with. Paul wrote to his friends, like Timothy, who he thought more of as a son, to encourage them to continue on in the faith and to update them on how the Spirit was brining him through those days of trial. Would to God that the church would begin that again. Can you imagine, how encouraging that would be? 

It’s why I love to read and write, because I cannot rehash those thoughts in my mind again and again without concern for proper remembrance. It’s why I scribbled on my iPad during revival service last night when Roger said “God doesn’t need antacids.”   What a thought! Silly that it is, but how I needed it in this troubled world. I needed reminded of Paul’s words to Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:7 ~ For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Do you know why God hasn’t given us the spirit of fear? Because He doesn’t possess it. Glory to God in the highest! No antacids for Him. God doesn’t even have a Medicine cabinet. 

Three things God gave us for our “medicine cabinet” from that verse: 

He’s given us Power!

Some days I feel like I wear a super girl cape, other days I feel like it’s a blanky to cover up with and wait for the Calvary. The blanket days are the days that I’m not tuned into the Holy Spirit. Paul reminds Timothy that within him is a gift of God.  

2 Timothy 1:6-14 KJVS

[6] Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.

That gift is where our power lies. It’s within you. But you’ve got to tap into your own super power. For me it’s creativity, be it in the form of writing, art, or song. But for you it could be something entirely different. But rest assured it’s a Kingdom gift, and you need it! 

 [7] For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. [8] Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; [9] Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,

He’s given us Love!

Not only the love of people, but the love of doing something for Him. Paul tells us through His letter to Timothy, not to be ashamed of our testimony. Of course I believe that refers to what God is doing in our lives, but I also believe that that refers to what God is doing through us. When we follow through on what God “before the world began” placed within us, it brings great glory to Him.

It seems most everything in my life points me back to Jeremiah 1:5

Jeremiah 1:5 KJVS

[5] Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

Before I was created, I had purpose. And so did you!

And that purpose is an ability within us that God created us to love. I love to write, sing, create! It’s my way of testifying of the goodness of God. What is within you that is trying to bust out? I have seen so many, many people who are not using their God given abilities, even though it would bring them such joy. Because they’ve bought the lie of Satan to fear the opinion of man.

He’s given us a Sound Mind!

This is were the thought for me comes in that “God doesn’t need antacids.” He’s not worried about how this world is going to turn out, it’s a done deal. Read the book! It’s in there. But Satan loves to create a fear with in us, knowing that it will cause us to hesitate on our actions and second guess what we know we’ve been called to do. 

When I got up to sing last night at the revival, I was feeling anything but secure. I was unprepared, and really just wanted to take my super girl cape off, go back down in the pew and wait for service to be over. True story. But I didn’t. Through the Spirit I sang, I spoke, I cried and it was good. Did I have a sound mind? Not until I was obedient. Because up until that point Satan was still trying to mess with my head. 

Every day he does. Every time I see this world gone mad, I have an anxious moment.  But then, (when I tune into the Spirit) I am reminded of  what God has placed within me, and I am strengthened. It’s why preaching such a powerful thing and why we need it. Oh how Roger stirred my soul last night with his obedience. 

I was tired, I had ran all day for various reasons and I just wanted to go home and be in bed with my iPad and a cup of coffee. But God gave me purpose, to sing. He gave Roger purpose, to preach. And through our purpose and subsequent obedience, we did our part to encourage the body of Christ and each other. We need each other! 

Paul was proud of his gifts that God provided and he trusted God to take his purpose and use it for God’s glory!

 [10] But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: [11] Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. [12] For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. [13] Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. [14] That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.

Your medicine cabinet: POWER, LOVE, SOUND MIND. 

Take one of each, and call on God every morning!

Posted in Christian Service, Church attendance, Church Unity, Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Uncategorized

Which Chair?

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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 camp (real band camp) I was determined to improve. So I practiced all summer on my own and showed up for the first day of pre-camp with Director Jack Downs. This was a time of personal instruction if you desired, but was not mandatory. As I began playing the music, I remember the look of “pleasant surprise” on Jack’s face. He took my 2nd chair music, and replaced it with 1st chair. For those of you who are not band geeks,  1st-3rd denoted your level of ability. 1st was the more difficult piece. Within minutes I had proven my worthiness to receive the better placement. Jack was happy, and I was jumping up and down on the inside at my labored for accomplishment. I was no longer a half-hearted slacker but I was part of the 1st chair seating. Glory to God! I remember that day like it was yesterday, when in reality it was 43 years ago. 😳

1st CHAIR HAS IT’S PERKS!

I listened to an Apostolic preacher this morning preach a sermon on first, second and third chair people. That’s what brought back those fond memories of one of my greatest of high school experiences. 

Joshua. Truly one of the finest of all band leaders. His band blew down the walls of Jericho and defeated an army. Take that football teams of America! Who’s the hero in that story? Just kidding. The hero was God.  But there’s a lesson in those trumpeters. They got to experience that event with Joshua because he had proven his commitment to the home team when he and Caleb refused to be discouraged by the size of the enemy in the land of Canaanites, but rather believed that their God, He who they had first hand witnessed His deliverance, could win the battle against the giants that made the other ten spies feel like grasshoppers. And because of their faith and commitment, God allowed only them of the original wilderness wanderers to enter the Promise Land. 

Yes! 1st chair has its perks! 

Then there are the the second chair folks. They’re still apart of the band, but they’re playing a lesser role. They are not droppin’ walls. They’re cheering the trumpeters on to victory and doing their part to back them up. They’re important, but personally they are far from living their best life. They are far from committed. They’re simply participants. 

2nd CHAIR HAS IT’S PARTICIPANTS

As the years of the nation of Israel went by, the children of God had extreme highs and lows. What was once a burning bush experience with Moses as the leader who brought the Ten Commandments from God off the mountain, became a religion of 613 laws. Laws that no one could keep, setting the people of God up for failure, and causing their relationship with the Lord to become one of participation, much like what we see in the world today. People going through the motions of church, but failing to have a real relationship with the Lord as He intends. 

What was the difference between Joshua and Caleb, and the next generations? The more they became involved with religion and the less they became involved with God in a first hand relationship, they began distancing themselves from the experiences of the past. They were stories they told rather than times they experienced. They carried the banner saying they were God’s children, but nobody was blowin’ a horn and knockin’ down walls. 

How true of todays church. While we will not likely witness an experience like that of the walls of Jericho, each of us in our lives could be experiencing a first hand relationship with God that would cause God to have that same pleasant look that Director Jack had. Jack loved that I had committed myself to the music and he rewarded me with a new position. God would like to do the same for His people today. But they’re content playing 2nd chair. Let someone else teach, preach, sing, testify, serve, etc. I’ll show up for church, and put my dollar in the plate and that will be enough. When I’m out side the church, I’ll say I’m a Christian, but I’ll not offend anyone by asking them if they are or telling them what it means to me. And that will be enough. Hello? It’s not enough. And it is so far short of what God wants for you. 

3rd CHAIR HAS IT’S PART

Somewhere down the line someone coined the phrase “there are no small parts in a play, just small actors.” Meaning that every part is important. And it’s true. But in the roles of God’s children there is neither a small part or small person, and if one is content in standing in the shadow of the church and never growing in the grace of God, they’ll live a defeated, discontent life, and the generations to come will be as those generations of Judges 2:10 that says, “And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, which knew not the Lord, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel.”

The children of Israel went from experiencing God to not even knowing Him. 

So which chair are you in today? I pray you are blowing that trumpet loud and strong and expecting a wall to fall for the cause of Christ.  But if you are in chair two or three, I beg of you to examine your relationship with the Lord, and get int practice so that you’ll be called out to do more and to glorify the Lord more in these days of trial when people need to see God working in our lives.

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

Some days just stink

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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, or the political climate, or literally sometimes it is the climate…. humidity kicks my butt. I struggle with depression. Medication helps on the home front of all those issues, but doesn’t alleviate anything completely. And then there are days when I personally think that I’m just a self centered brat. For certain, life is complex, and it gets complexor by the day. Yes I know “complexor” isn’t a word.  But it should be. 

We recently acquired some baby chicks, three have survived of the four. Two are Sapphire Gems and the third is a Cinnamon Queen. I like my chickens like I like my life, fancy! I know… chickens and fancy just don’t really mesh together right? Neither does my life mesh with fancy. But it doesn’t stop me from liking it. I love all things sparkly, and sometimes life is anything but. That metaphor may or may not have made sense with you, but it struck a chord in my heart as I wrote it, because I think about my trips to the coop and the less than desirable smells and such that’s in there awaiting me. And yet, it brings me great joy to gather the eggs, the fruits of their labor and bring them into the kitchen to wash up and box for breakfast or baked goods. The nastiness of the coop is overlooked when I realize that those chicks don’t care if they’re wading toe deep in poop.  Even the fancy one, ain’t that fancy. 

But I wasn’t created to wade in crap. And when my days stink, and I’m wading through self made messes or just a broken world being thrown a sparking gem or golden nugget of the word of God is just what the Great Physician ordered for my soul.

Psalm 138 is like a page from my life right now:

Psalm 138:1-8 KJV

[1] I will praise thee with my whole heart: before the gods will I sing praise unto thee. [2] I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.

How wonderful to have the wisdom of God at our fingertips. And yet, when I struggle I avoid it. Why? I don’t know. But I do. The very thing that brings me joy, strength and puts my feet back up on the solid rock is the very thing that I leave lay on the table. Is it Satan’s sirens in my ears, or just stupidity. Maybe both. But this Sunday morning I long for the house of God where I can praise Him and hear His message because through Psalm 138 He has magnified His word to me! I see it Lord!

 [3] In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul. [4] All the kings of the earth shall praise thee, O Lord, when they hear the words of thy mouth. [5] Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the Lord : for great is the glory of the Lord.

I am reminded that this wicked world that loves to mock God will one day see every knee bowing and every tongue confessing that Jesus Christ is Lord. Those who elevate gods above God will not have a leg to stand on because theirs will be collapsed in the weakness of man before Almighty God. God strengthened my soul this morning just as He did the Psalmist because there is power in this book! Glory to God in the highest!

 [6] Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off. [7] Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me. 

This world undoubtedly looks a whole lot like that stinky chicken coop. How on earth could a Holy, loving, and perfect God hang out with us? I don’t know, but I am ever so grateful that He does. 

I don’t spend a whole lot of time in the coop. I take care of business and scurry on my way. Some days the smell overwhelms my nostrils and my stomach turns. Other days it just is what it is, but I can tell you that it’s never sweet. But the experience is. I love my chickens, I long for a farm filled with all kinds of critters, but I live on a half acre lot, that’s filed with double wide trailer and a world of stuff, and some days that too overwhelms me. I’m just bein’ real folks. Life’s too short to be anything but. My lack of financial success often is a tool of Satan to weaken my spirit.  Remember… I like sparkly stuff. So I have to make sparkles out of tinfoil sometimes. I’m not wanting pity. Believe me when I say loathe pity. What I’m wanting is for God to kick me in the seat of the pants… and He takes me up on it. 

[8] The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands.

My sparkles and diamonds are the gifts ( and they are many) that God has given me to encourage others. It’s not to say that I don’t have some sparkly things around me that make me smile, I don’t live in poopy coop. I live in a nice house, with creations of my own and my husband David that we’ve worked hard for, and we love. But thing about realizing that the Lord sits high and looks low to where I am, is a reminder that we’ll all soon be where He is. And where He is everything sparkles! So if you don’t like glitter, you might want to learn to love it. 

But for now God is perfecting that which concerns me, He made me with His own hands to be what I am, and I need to perfect that which is in me to be what He desires, until Jesus returns. 

Posted in Christian Service, Church attendance, Life Inspiration, Word of God, worship

Sounding the Sirens of the Antichrist

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion 2 Comments on Sounding the Sirens of the Antichrist

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 is or will be, I found it more interesting a topic this morning that John said there are many antichrists. Woah…. many? 

The title of antichrist is found only four times in the scripture. All four are in the little Johns, 1 and 2. And are not in the context of the way we think of the antichrist. At least not how I think of the antichrist. I think of the antichrist as the person who comes to deceive the world during the last and final years of earth. As Paul speaks about in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 KJV

[3] Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; [4] Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.

Though not called “the antichrist” in that text, we see the man who will come to deceive the world in the last days. 

But John is speaking of antichrists of having been present in his day, and that they will be present in the future days, because the antichrist as John refers to it in these texts, are not so much a man, but a type of man; and I have no problem seeing his presence in modern times.

1 John 2:18-29 KJV

[18] Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. [19] They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. 

Antichrists in the church

John warns that we’d know them because they went out of the church and made it known that they were not all of us. This is heartbreaking to me, because I’ve known them, some of them I’ve met after they’d left a church and now deny that God is God. They fool people for a while, playing church, but then their true colors are manifest, made known, that they did not truly know the Lord as their Savior. I don’t believe this speaks of people who are in and out of church, saying their saved, but are not. I believe these that John speaks of comes into the church with an agenda, even if they’re not aware of it. People who Satan uses to draw people away from God by worldly deception. There are those that fall away from the church and then there are those that are drawn away into a dangerous territory. They’re often put into a position of power where they can garner a great following and in so doing draw people to them. I won’t say the names that are inside of my head, maybe you have some too, but there are self proclaimed evangelists that draw people out of the local church and into a cyber church where they are feeding the leaders with high dollar salaries and false promises. They preach Christ, but they have a spirit of antichrist. When I think of the almost worshipful allegiance their followers have, its not hard to see how the Antichrist who comes in the end could use them as little shepherds of his evil. And everyone that followed them, would fall right in line to following the antichrist. 

Scary times…

Christ in Us!

[20] But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. [21] I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.

How awesome to have the Spirit of Christ living within the heart of a child of God. It is that Spirit that will protect us from falling under the trap and guile of the greatest deceiver of all times, Satan. But just as Satan positions himself for deception, we must position ourself for reception. In the local church to receive the edification of the word of God that will keep us in check agains the wiles of the Devil. 

As Gloria and I traveled the roads yesterday, we spoke as usual about our beloved Victory Baptist Church and how much the people of that church mean to us. The people are our brothers and sisters in Christ, but Christ and His teaching through the Pastoral leadership are why we’re there.  We have both been in places in our lives that were away from God, so when we found where the Spirit abounds and grows, we’re not leaving. But many have…

I used to get very upset when people would leave. Until I began to notice that sometimes (not always) but sometimes God opened the door. The people were sewing division, or false teaching, or other things that would confuse new believers. So God moved them out! 

But what scares me now is that we have many people out of the church because of COVID19 and I’m not sure of where they’re getting fed, and what (if anything) they’re eating. While ours and many other good churches are on line, the internet is not always cooperative. And while online is better than nothing, its not the same as fellowshipping with believers and hearing the word of God uninterrupted. 

I understand the fear in the hearts of the people who have underlying health conditions that put them at risk. You have to do what’s right for you. But please guard your heart from believing every word that spoken to the church about the disease. I have a feeling they’re are some antichrists in the medical industry. And I feel it’s my task today to sound the siren on false teaching in and out of the church.

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith, Uncategorized

The Measure & the Mockers of God

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 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 every other word in the scripture being divinely inspired by God Himself and surviving all these centuries with the evil that would have loved to have snuffed it out. While I have felt the Holy Spirit rise up within me, I have never physically touched the Lord, yet I know I am “one who Jesus loves.” I did not sit with Him at the last supper and lay my head on His chest, nor see Him perform miracles in person, but I’ve witnessed it through the Holy Spirit in the lives of people I’ve seen Him work in and through, including myself being a first hand witness of that fact. 

This morning I begin a study for myself of the little Johns. I need focus, so here it is I’ve decided. 

This letter was written between 85-90 A.D., before John was exiled to the island of Patmos where he wrote the book of Revelation. Jerusalem had been destroyed and Christians were scattered with a declining commitment according to commentary. John’s goal was to encourage the believers to stand strong and true even in the face of extreme persecution and the inability to gather publicly. Hmmm…  sounds vaguely familiar to our modern day issues. Although I won’t say that persecution is the reason for the churches decline. More aptly the reason would be non committed saints, or people who call themselves saints, but they ain’t. 

The Manifestation of God

1 John 1:1-10 KJV

[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 was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) 

How absolutely awesome is it to know God?! He Who was “from the beginning.” I don’t think the church as a whole, or most of us individually have any concept of how great that is. I talk a good game, and yet, I forget. Until I read a text like this and then I am reminded, “Oh yeah, God spoke the world outside my window into existence. What! I’m pleased as punch when I create art that remotely looks like it’s supposed to, but God created the originals from nothing. 

Woah…

And then He created mankind to live in this world, and among us He placed

The Ministers of God

Folks like John. And folks like me (unworthy as I am) to share the gospel and remind us all that in this wicked, sin filled world, God has given us joy!

[3] That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. [4] And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. 

John is reminding us that God created us for each other and that in that fellowship with God and each other, it is there that our joy would be full! 

Sunday mornings, Sunday evenings and Wednesday nights can’t come soon enough for me. I need my people. Those who are absent because of the virus have no idea how very much they are missed. I’m always running around like a chicken 🐓 with my head cut off, and I fail to let them know. My heart aches as I go down the list of people missing from their normal seat in the church. I’m still there, left side, front row, center isle chair. That’s my spot and it has been for 24 years. But the friends behind me are not. And the friends to the right of me across the isle are not. And so today I write to my friends who read this blog and are not in their seats to say, “I miss you. I love you.” I’m hoping that they’re joy may be full in that wisdom. 

The Measure and the Mockers of God

[5] This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. [6] If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: [7] But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. [8] If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. [9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. [10] If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

The friends that I speak of know the measure of God. I’ve witnessed the light in their lives. They too have been ministers of the gospel, but for now they’re sidelined and it’s breaking their hearts and mine. The measure of child of God is how brightly the Light of Christ shines in their life. It’s not that they’re perfect; as John said if we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves. But there is evidence that the cracked vessel for which their soul resides has the Light of God beaming out of it. I’ve witnessed it, they’ve encouraged my soul many times!

And then there are the mockers. Those who walk in darkness pretending to have the Light, but their light is a dim bulb of deception. What’s so very sad about it is they not only deceive themselves into thinking they’re saved, but they deceive the lost into thinking that’s what salvation is. We will all stand accountable before God for what we’ve done in His name. And there will be those who hear “I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

So the question for us all today is “What is the Measure of God in us?” If someone were to pour out of us all the God that is evidenced through our lives would it fill a thimble? A cup? A book? Would to God that when I get to Heaven He will show me the pages that the testimony of my faith has been written on. I pray the same is true for you. War on Christian Soldiers! I love you, but more importantly God loves you and He see you where you are.