Let me preface this by the statement, “I hate all things math.” It makes me feel less than average that my brain cannot comprehend and compute the simplest of problems. I praise God for computer programs like QuickBooks, even though it too frustrates me because I have to put in the decimal point myself. True story. I am that person. I have been looking around A-Level maths online tuition in KL area to improve my math skills. Praise God that there won’t be math in Heaven! I don’t actually know that but I do know that God was opposed to counting, just ask King David. And Heavenly multiplication isn’t complex, It’s simply adding to the church any number, the more the merrier! I love God’s math! It’s also not numbers at all, but rather the multiplication of life edifying behaviors that will add sweetness to your life and less heartache.
Today, I have heartache. There’s and issue in the secular world that has drama written all over it; and I don’t need it. I desire peace. I think I’ll play the song “Peace be still” on the guitar when I get done writing. It causes me to remember, if Jesus can calm the angry waves, He can calm a situation in my life. Amen? Amen! It’s basic mathematics in the life of a child of God to have peace in their life, but when the world get’s involved, that’s when it become complex.
Grace and Peace Be Multiplied
2 Peter 1:1-11 KJVS
[1] Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: [2] Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,
Grace and Peace be multiplied, not by anything I can do, but through the knowledge of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. No other people are required in this equation to create peace in my life. Whether or not someone else is creating havoc is irrelative if I stay focused on Him and allow Him to calm the storm. That’s good preachin’! But it doesn’t take the other people out of the problem, and it won’t guarantee that I won’t have an upset stomach at days end. But I can still have peace as the answer even if the problem doesn’t get solved because I have knowledge that the world doesn’t have.
The Subtraction of Corruption
[3] According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: [4] Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
I can have grace and peace through Christ as well as confidence given to me through power and strength not possible in the life of someone who doesn’t know Christ. They may have confidence in themselves coming out their ears, (I know those people) but that also puts the pressure on themselves to perform. I have confidence in Christ, which not only takes the pressure off of me, but allows me to glorify Him through my reaction to the conflicts around me. I have His (Christ’s) divine nature within me (added on my day of salvation) that helps me to handle life’s problems. Now, for the record, I sometimes ignore that addition in my life and choose rather to react in the flesh which is the subtraction of the Holy Spirit’s guidance which most always ends with a bad grade and a poor example to anyone watching.
The Addition of Fruit
[5] And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; [6] And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; [7] And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. [8] For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. [9] But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. [10] Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:
I want so very badly to have fruit in my life. The one common denominator that prevents it is myself. I don’t always have faith, my virtues are sometimes lacking, my knowledge is limited by the lusts of the flesh that desire worldly entertainment, and my sisterly kindness is sometimes overshadowed by human frustration. I sometimes ignore the call, choosing rather to shut myself off from the world because the world will hurt me.
Below are a few tidbits I’ve discovered in life and found through Noah Webster’s 1828 definitions.
Faith: Forsaking all, I trust Him.
Virtue: Voluntary obedience to the truth.
Knowledge: We can have no knowledge of that which does not exist. God has a perfect knowledge of his works. Human knowledge is very limited, and is mostly gained by observation and experience.
Charity: Love. The highest exercise of charity, is charity towards the uncharitable. 💖
It is these acts in the life of a Christian that will create a party in Heaven.
[11] For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
I love a good party! I especially love the thought that there will be no division in Heaven! Glorrrraaaaaay!!!
It’s on my mind most every single day. I’m not sure that it may not be a sin on my part. I’m concerned and frustrated about the empty seats in the church of God. I’m not concerned about why someone who has health issues is not at church. I can almost guarantee that if they had their druthers they’d be there. I’m not frustrated, but rather saddened about those who are not saved. But children of the living God, whom I see in multiple places, without regard for virus’ or concerns of life, but seldom, if ever, darken the doorstep of God, bother me. And as I said, I’m not so sure it’s not sin on my part that I put so much thought into it. I want to ask them why. I dare not for fear of answers.
A friend of mine who has had health struggles month after month was telling me this week of a neighbor who hasn’t been in church for 30 years because someone hurt them. What? It’s a good thing God doesn’t stop talking to those who hurt His feelings, else He’d never speak to me again. That thought makes my heart hurt. I don’t know what I’d do were it not for having Him to talk to. And I fail miserably at that sometimes. But how can one stay away from God’s house for 30 years and call themselves a child of God? How do you not have doubts and un-soothed fears that create an unsettledness inside of you that is too much to bear? I’d love to ask them, but I dare not. I have a feeling that I’ll get some half hearted answers such as “God and I talk all the time.” Do ya? Or they’ll say “You’re judging me, and the Bible says thou shalt not judge? Does it? I have a song in my repertoire with the words, “I’m not judging, I’m just wonderin’ if Heaven’s going to be her home.”
I wonder that, because I remember when I used to say I was a Christian, but had no desire to darken the doorstep of God. For the record, I wasn’t a Christian. I also remember when someone in the church broke my heart, and I mean broken beyond description. 💔. I remember considering leaving the church, but I knew that that was where God had placed me and purposed me, so I stayed. It hurt. Not just a little. Over time God repaired my heart. ❤️🩹 He restored the relationship between me and the person that hurt me. It took time and it still hurts sometimes. But then I think about how many times I’ve hurt God, and my pain pales in comparison, so I shut my pie hole and get back to serving God.
I felt the need to write this blog as a therapeutic way of dealing with the struggle in hopes that maybe anyone who’s out of church might read it and remember what God did for them. Or perhaps someone who’s never to been to church might wonder 💭 what all my wondering is about. Why is church so important to me?
The Lost Girl
Have you ever felt a disconnection from the world you live in? I did. As a child I felt that disconnection and I know now that it was God preparing me to come out of Satan’s world and into His. I knew I didn’t belong, but I didn’t know why until the day that I went to a church and experienced Jesus. Experiential faith. That’s what happens when your life does a 360 degree turn like mine did. I belonged for the first time in my life! I have always had an awesome family, but that didn’t fill the void that was in my life. People tried to make me happy, but they could not. I filled my life with “stuff” to satisfy me, but it did not. I would lay down at night and fear death. I had no peace, nor did I have the answers even though I was brought up in church and attended church with my children, until I experienced Jesus. That was the day the lost girl was found.
The Found Girl
February 18, 1996 I sat on the back row of a new church wishing I was anywhere but there. As the preacher preached my eyes leaked. A few weeks later of being drawn back to that church my eyes were not leaking, I was sobbing. The conviction upon my heart for living a sinful, ungrateful life was more than my heart could stand until I finally repented and gave my heart back to the One who created it. Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me, I once was lost but now I’m found, was blind but now I see. Yes! To the song writer John Newton, I understand. I experienced sweet salvation and discovered to Whom I belonged.
The Jesus Chick
It’s more than a title, it’s a ministry and purpose. It was given to me by a preacher who knew my heart for Christ, who poured into me the word of God and gave me the tools to minister to a hurting world by living it out in his own life. He was a mighty man of God, used to build a church of two thousand; it was that same man that Satan relentlessly sought until he fell. And when he fell, I got a huge dose of reality. If Satan could take down such a warrior, he could take me down in a heartbeat. And so there is another of the many, many reasons I’m in church at every opportunity. Falling both spiritually and physically terrifies me. But falling spiritually can not only leave a mark on myself, but can also cause others to fall as well. I want no soul laid to my charge because I failed God.
Hebrews 10:25 is often quoted as a reminder to stay in church. But the preceding verses are what causes 10:25 to come to pass.
Hebrews 10:22-25 KJVS
[22] Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. [23] Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) [24] And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: [25] Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is ; but exhorting one another : and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
If you don’t have a church, please find one.
If you are away from church, please return.
If you have a church, please stay faithful.
If you are seeking a church, (and you’re close) come to mine.
You are loved. ~ Shari, the Jesus 🐓 chick
If you want to study the Bible more extensively, aside from going to church, you may want to consider attending a Biblical College as well.
Tent meeting night number two, and the faucets inside my eyes refused to shut off. I truthfully didn’t try. Tears like that had been a long time coming and I knew I needed it. Pastor Alfred Hickman had started the water works on Monday when he preached the message “It’s your Move.” I cried through the music of Brother David Harney (which was amazing) and right through the message which spoke directly to my soul, knowing that I had to get myself out of this place of frustration I was in. Why am I frustrated? Because the world was taking it’s toll on my ministries and I felt powerless against it. I’ve been smiling and saying “I’m fine” for months when that was far from the truth. I fully believe that this is why we have revival. Because it’s easy to say I’m fine, until God cracks you open like an egg and all your insides gush out.
The word of God is indeed sharper than a two edged sword…
Hebrews 4:12 KJVS
[12] For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
I’ve watched that verse play out the past two days.
Cut to the Quick
Have you ever done that when manicuring your nails. 😣 Owch! It’s even worse when you play guitar and you do it on your chording hand. While we think the word quick as generally speaking of something fast, in this context it’s speaking of “to make alive!” The word of God stirs your soul and brings to the surface things that are deeply rooted. It is painful, because that’s what the world does, it bury’s itself in you and wraps itself around every facet of your life. For me the world had rooted itself into my children, grandchildren, husband, Mother, family, the teen ministry and many of the people of God that I know. I felt as if I was making little to no impact anywhere. These people are my heart. I love them more than anyone of them know and seeing the world taking a hold of them definitely cuts to the quick.
Quick to Decide
Part of my issue, (believe me when I say I have many issues) but part of my issue is defined in the very first verse I claimed as a life verse.
2 Corinthians 2:1-2 KJVS
[1] But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness. [2] For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me?
I’ve always been determined to leave people better than I found them. I thought it better not to let them know I had struggles. But what ended up happening is I’ve adopted their struggles as my own. And they are many. So many in fact that I’ve collapsed under the weight. I’m sure you’re not shocked. But I was! I thought that I could handle anything.Yes, I know. Foolish mortal. God never asked me to take on the world. But I felt that it was my job as His child. I needed to fix what was broken but I was powerless against any of it. Just like the egg, only the Creator can repair that kind of damage. When Pastor Alfred preached, “It’s your move” Monday night, I thought maybe my move is to get out of God’s way and step out of the ministry for a while. I’ve only felt this way one other time since I’ve been saved. And it was a battle. A battle to where I literally held onto my seat in the church because Satan had told me to start moving toward the door. For all you backseat Baptists, maybe this is for you. Don’t get too close the door. When I say I hung onto my seat, I mean that literally. I have sat front row, isle seat for 25 years. If anyone wants that seat, that’s fine, I’ll find another front row seat or possibly 2nd row; but I’m not moving far, because Satan wants me out of the church. And before you say that that’s an arrogant statement, if he doesn’t want you out of the church, you’re not doing enough. Yeah… this is revival week.
I was a little too quick to decide it was time to get out of the ministry.
Decide to Follow
Night two, and Preacher Brian Evans stirred my heart like a scrambled egg. I wept the entire service. His message title was “Just Keep Grinding.” Preached from Luke 1 and the story of Elisabeth and Zachariah and their unfruitful times that became fruitful. His points were this:
Unfruitful and broken
Faultless but trusting God (not perfect, but doing their best)
Faithful to God
Fulfilling God’s work
He might as well have titled it the life of Shari. Before you think that I’ve completely lost it to think a man preached a sermon just for me. He didn’t, there were others touched just as deeply by his message. But it’s whats amazing about the Word of God; one message can touch every life in the building in a different way. But for a couple of us, we were both leaning the same direction, out the ministry door. But his message to just keep grinding, even on the rough days when you think there’s no hope, just stand your ground on the spot God gave you to stand on. For Zacharias it was the temple of God. Even when God did not provide them a child, year after year, decade after decade, and yet it says
Luke 1:[8] And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest’s office before God in the order of his course, [9] According to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.
And so he did, year after year, decade after decade… He followed God’s design, regardless of how he felt. Even if he may have wanted to throw his hands up in the air and walk away, he did not. He stayed the course. Oh Lord Jesus! How sorry I was for not wanting to stay the course. How dare I say that I am suffering when I look at the examples set before me in the word of God. Every disciple persecuted, everyone (save John) killed for the cause of Christ. Zachariah and Elisabeth’s long awaited son was beheaded and yet these people stayed the course.
Am I struggling? You betcha! Am I gonna quit? No. God has plan and I’ll continue to follow. If you’re on the edge of a decision like mine, stay the course dear friend, stay the course!
[6] Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, I will get me to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense.
There comes a time, at least for me, when I just need to step outside the everyday monotony that I call life, and check in with Jesus. I long to walk into a room where my Lord is sitting, waiting for my arrival and say “Honey I’m home!” We’ll both laugh and then I’ll sit down at the table and together we’ll sort out the messes, calm the chaos, and bring my mind into a place of rest and peace. And when I later leave, I’ll know that I have been in the presence of the Lord. I’ll step back into my very imperfect life in a better place inside my mind. Even so Lord, let it be! I am so ready for September 4th and verse six in the Song of Solomon, chapter 4 does a wonderful job of preparing my heart.
If you’re as I am, and you feel the end days getting closer and closer to the point that every loud sound causes you to wonder if Jesus is getting ready to call His church home, then follow along as we unpack verse 6!
4:6 Until the day break, and the shadows flee away,…. Until the day of grace breaks on every sinner, and the shadows of darkness, ignorance, and unbelief, are gone; or until the everlasting day breaks, and there will be no more night, nor any darkness of affliction, nor any more desertion, doubts, and fears, we’re in time of waiting, but not without purpose. They are the words of Christ, declaring where He would go till that time came. But what did He do when he got there. Sit and twiddle His thumbs? Perhaps He did the Laundry. That’s what is whirring in the background as I write. No, I don’t think that that was on His agenda but rather He would spend time away from the shadows.
What are the shadows looming in your life right now? What feels like it’s leaning over your shoulder, whispering in your ear and making itself known, every day, for the purpose of distracting you from God’s work? Is there something taking your eyes off the goodness of God in your life and putting into view the fearful and uncertain times we’re living in? All of those are a very real struggle in my life. So I determined to pull a retreat together in two months, that would afford us a place in the mountains to gather with friends and for one day, focus on the freedom of being a child of God.
I will get me to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense: the allusion may be to the mountains and hills where myrrh and frankincense grew and the scents were abundant and filled your mind with fragrant thoughts. As my husband and I drove through the hills of West Virginia last night, that was where my mind was. We were in our Oreion Reeper (a dune buggy type vehicle without a top) and every scent of the mountains was so strong. Every hill and holler tickled my nose with amazing fragrances. Oh if only the evenings were longer to enjoy the time! But it was still nice to escape just for a few hours where struggles of the world weren’t on our minds. Just growing closer to each other.
That’s the day I long for with Christ. To know Him better and to Know His people better. To enjoy the company and fellowship of others who want the same things.
According to the commentary of of John Gill: By this “mountain” and “hill” may be meant the church of Christ, gathered together in Gospel order, so called for its visibility and immovableness, Isaiah 2:2; and for the trees of righteousness which are planted and flourish there, the saints; and for the fragrancy of their graces; and for the sweet smelling odor of their sacrifices of prayer and praise; and because of the delight and pleasure Christ takes in his people, and they in him here; where they have mutual communion, so that it is to them both a mountain of myrrh and a hill of frankincense: particularly, here Christ delights to be, and here he resolves to dwell until his second coming.
Those are such sweet thoughts! I rely on fragrances a lot in my home to take my mind to a sweeter place. It seems as though that was the Lord’s intent when placing those scents here on earth for us to enjoy.
As I continue preparing for this retreat, and preparing my heart to encourage those who attend, I’m praying earnestly that women will join together in the fellowship of Christ and will be rewarded with a refreshing day on the mountain just as Solomon spoke of. I am for certain that I need it now! And that is why the time is now. Please, Pray about joining us. Here’s the the link the ticket, and I look forward to seeing you September 4th!
Be careful what you say to me, it may just be the topic of tomorrows post. I don’t say that viciously, it’s just that when someone get’s the wheels in my mind turning, I usually can’t get them to stop until I figure out what the Bible says about it. And so the conversations went, that there were topics that God just didn’t discuss; therefore they were up for debate as to the moral position that a Christian should take. Okay, game on. Now my mind is not going to stop wallowing this around until I get it nailed down.
Heaven’s Not a Pot Luck Dinner
Romans 14:16-23 KJVS
[16] Let not then your good be evil spoken of: [17] For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
That thought just cracked me up! Proof that my title is true and Heaven is not a pot luck dinner, no matter how many baptist think it is. No one is really arguing about Heaven being a pot luck dinner, but there are plenty of people arguing over food, alcohol and other activities in the Bible.
How many times have I heard the argument about alcohol being wrong. I know how serious alcohol addiction is and how important medical rehabilitation center in Oregon is. And then some smart aleck will say “well gluttony is a sin too.” Of course it is, why are you looking at me when you say that? Go over in the corner and drink your beer. Just kidding. Nobody is drinking at my house. But I’ve had that conversation with waaaaaaaaay more than one person trying to convince me that my stand on alcohol is not biblical because wine is mentioned many times in the scripture. I’ve heard preachers say that it wasn’t fermented when Jesus drank it, it was the pure juice of the vine. I honestly don’t know the answer to that question. I do know that at the wedding of Cana, wine was on the menu because Jesus created it.
John 2:7-10 KJVS
[7] Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. [8] And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it. [9] When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom, [10] And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.
Within the statement of “when men have well drunk”, John Gill’s commentary said “and when men have well drank; not to excess, but freely, so as that they are exhilarated; and their spirits cheerful, but their brains not intoxicated: so the word, as answering to the Hebrew word is שכר, used by the Septuagint in Genesis 43:34.
I, quite frankly am not a scholar of Hebrew. I only know the English language and I tend to butcher it. So when I read the words “well drank.” To me it means they drank a considerable sum. And in so doing they aren’t aware or don’t care when the cheap stuff comes out. Were they intoxicated? It sounds like it to me, but what do I know. So where does that put us on whether or not God says it’s okay to drink alcohol? It doesn’t. It does however say things like
Proverbs 23:30-31 KJVS
[30] They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. [31] Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.
It’s not talking about the color of the wine being the issue but rather the intent behind the heart that’s looking at it. Don’t be lusting after the wine like a drunkard.
And Proverbs 20:1
[1] Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.
Neither verse says “thou shalt not drink alcohol.” But they certainly give indication that it’s not always a good idea. And as for the advice for our era of time, meaning the advice we receive from Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles… that’s us… and his advice which was that of Romans 14, “the kingdom of Heaven is not meat and drink.” Heaven isn’t about what you eat or drink. It’s rather about righteousness, peace and joy of the Holy Ghost. What’s the Holy Spirit say about it? To you personally? And would you know if He was talking to you, or is He even talking to you? If you’re not a child of God, saved, having accepted the salvation of Jesus Christ through the His blood on the cross, then you’re not hearing the Holy Ghost, because you’re not on speaking terms yet. God is not so concerned for what is on the menu for dinner as He is on what are the desires of our heart, and what testimony comes from those desires.
[18] For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. [19] Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. [20] For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence. [21] It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. [22] Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. [23] And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
As with everything in life, this goes back to the intent of the heart. Why is alcohol important to you? (If it is) And if it is, do you drink it without regard for those who struggle with it. That you may cause an alcoholic who can’t control themselves and therefore may die in alcoholism, then it’s unquestionably sin. So for me, I would just sooner abstain.
The same is true with dieting. If I have a friend who’s trying to live healthy and I’m eating cheesecake in their face, it’s not different than the alcohol question. But God is not so much concerned about what we eat and drink as He is on who’s going to be setting around His table in Heaven. This is where our focus should be. If you’re wanting to orange alcohol and food, you’re heart’s not right to start with. Heaven is not about a pot luck dinner.
Heaven is not about who you’re married too
Luke 20:34-35 KJVS
[34] And Jesus answering said unto them, The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage: [35] But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage:
Scripture does say if you’re saved you should not marry the unsaved.
2 Corinthians 6:14 KJVS
[14] Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
So, if you’re saved, and your single, your future mate should be a bible believing child of God. Nothing else will be in the will of God. But for me, I, nor my husband were saved when we got married. So ye were equally yoked, unfortunately in sin. But then I got saved, and David was still lost. Should I have left him? No! The Bible says
1 Corinthians 7:12-15 KJVS
[12] But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. [13] And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him. [14] For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. [15] But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases : but God hath called us to peace.
There’s a common word used both with regard to alcohol, and marriage. Peace.
That’s where the rubber meets the road for me with both. I hate confrontation and arguing. H.A.T.E. It! It is a life of misery I have lived and have no desire to return to it. I’m not saying I haven’t argued since I got saved, but I’m saying that I have never sought it. I have witnessed both alcohol and the unsaved be the culprit in what would lead to a violent end. It’s terrifying, it put’s children and adults at risk, in fear and it breaks hearts. But Satan will give people justifications. He/She hurt me. They were wrong. They sinned. All of that may be true, but it doesn’t justify, an ugly battle instituted by the child of God. God only wants peace. And anything that comes between you and a peaceful day isn’t of God. Peace. Oh my stars, if Heaven were nothing but that, would it not be worth it all! But it’s going to be so much more.
Our relationships in Heaven will not be those of the earth, they’ll be better. We’ll be known as we are known, but with perfect love in our hearts for everyone and most importantly for God. Our lives will center around Him and His purpose. As it should now, but can’t because there’s too many worldly things in the way. Like man’s opinions.
And speaking of worldly relationships, I’ll touch on this only for moment and then move on. It’s settled in Heaven and it’s settled in my heart about the matter of homosexuality and the Bible. Does the Bible word “homosexuality appear in the Bible. No. Does it’s failure to be in there mean that the subject wasn’t addressed. No. Did Jesus personally say anything about it. Yes. Because every word in the Bible is His word, whether or not it’s highlighted in red.
1 Corinthians 6:9 KJVS
[9] Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
Effeminate is defined as (womanly characteristics in a man). Clearly labeled as sin, not accepted of God.
1 Timothy 1:8-10 KJVS
[8] But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; [9] Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, [10] For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
It once again is not said to be homosexuality. Bu who are they who are guilty of sodomy. (Acts against nature as it’s defined. Leviticus 18:22 the wrath of God was revealed from heaven in a very visible and remarkable manner against this abomination, by raining fire and brimstone upon Sodom and Gomorrah, and upon the cities of the plain, who defiled themselves in this way. Without getting graphic as to what “acts against nature” would be, let’s just say it’s not natural for men to be with men and women to be with women. The manner for which a man and woman come together is a perfect jig saw puzzle that’s not up for debate.
Romans 1:24-27,29 KJVS
[24] Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: [25] Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. [26] For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: [27] And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. [29] Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,
Let’s get back to Heaven not being a potluck dinner. I’m not sure what’s going to be on the menu our first day in Heaven. But I know in my heart that God’s got that dinner planned just like He planned creation and how it should work. And then mankind messed it up by putting our own ideas into the mix. Our opinions do not matter one iota to God, nor change His mind from the scripture He created as Law. Yes we’re under grace. But grace forgives sin, it doesn’t excuse it. Thank God for grace and peace… and pot luck dinners on this side of Heaven.
Why is it that every news report, countless daily conversations and many of the thoughts we have are currently filled with struggles. Or is it just me? I’m thinking it’s not. Right now there are basically three types of people that I contend with. Those of a conservative and concerned mindset about the moral condition of our world, those who have allowed the world to convince them that sin is acceptable and only relative if it effects them personally, and those with little awareness who deem it easier to live that way than in reality. I love each one, but I can tell you that I struggle with the matter of conversing with the latter two.
A word search of “struggle” lead me to only one mention of it in scripture. And a fitting scripture it was. The story of two nations in the womb of a concerned momma who feels them struggling within her.
Genesis 25:21-34 KJV
[21] And Isaac intreated the Lord for his wife, because she was barren: and the Lord was intreated of him, and Rebekah his wife conceived. [22] And the children struggled together within her; and she said, If it be so, why am I thus? And she went to enquire of the Lord. [23] And the Lord said unto her, Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger.
The Inquiry
Rebekah’s first reaction was to “inquire of the Lord of the struggle.” Would to God that people would ask God His opinion of the current struggles in our world. I had a conversation with a young person this week that I finally had to just shut down the conversation to keep a contentious attitude in control. My attitude wasn’t so healthy either. I could feel the ire rise within my soul as they implied that God approved the sin of homosexuality, made light of bible characters, and wanted to debate morality. This is the world we live in, and it’s not only the young. The influence of the secular collegiate educators is corrupt and our young people are in the mouths of a lion.
After that conversation I too inquired of the Lord. Where is this struggle deriving from and how do I change that mindset? It hurts my heart that the word of God gets less and less respect. I believe the reasoning behind that is the conviction it brings. John Powell’s comment about the Bible being a “Spiritual Washcloth” always comes to mind in times like these. The word of God is meant to clean up the heart of the reader and the world wants no part of it. Their solution is to struggle against God’s purpose by injecting Satan’s questioning. Just as it was in the garden with Eve when Satan ask “did God not say,” and then continued to manipulate the words of God to fit his agenda.
The two nations that Jacob and Esau came to represent were literal countries: Israel and Edom. Two brothers formed in the love of Isaac and Rebekah became two nations at odds of one another, and what was a simple family struggle became nations at war. Can we not see that potential in the church? We have one side standing on the Bible as the inerrant word of God. We have the other side saying, well yes it is, but we believe God didn’t necessarily mean what He said. Wait… what? How can that be. Well it can’t. And a simple “family struggle” has become an assault against us and their using our children to attack.
I beg you to make an inquiry of the Lord yourself, and see what He says.
The Counter Intelligence
Counter intelligence is activities designed to prevent or thwart spying, intelligence gathering, and sabotage by an enemy or other foreign entity. If you break the word apart and define it, it’s the opposing effort of mental capacity. Good vs. Evil. Smart vs. Stupid. There is God’s side, and all others. If you go against any part of the word of God, you are siding against Jesus Himself. Oh, but the world says no. You’re allowed to disagree with God. Yes, yes you are, it’s called free will; and its what all of us will stand accountable before God and answer for. And many will discover that all those “errors” in the word of God were in fact truth. And they’re going to be in a heap of trouble.
On with the story of the birth of Esau and Jacob:
[24] And when her days to be delivered were fulfilled, behold, there were twins in her womb. [25] And the first came out red, all over like an hairy garment; and they called his name Esau. [26] And after that came his brother out, and his hand took hold on Esau’s heel; and his name was called Jacob: and Isaac was threescore years old when she bare them. [27] And the boys grew: and Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field; and Jacob was a plain man, dwelling in tents. [28] And Isaac loved Esau, because he did eat of his venison: but Rebekah loved Jacob.
The boys were born to adversity between each other, and the attention of their parents, pitting one against the other. I’ve watched this play out in families that I know and it basically works the same way every time. Animosity and division that seldom ever heals. Personalities clashed between the brothers, one as a hunter and the other as a momma’s boy and sides were chosen. There was now a division in the family.
How many divisions are there in the family of God? There are 45,000 denominations globally according to google. And we know that Google is the truth second only to the word of God. I’m joking!!! But it is a source of information none the less, so we’ll go for it being that I only wanted a guess-timate anyway. Like the churches of today, both boys were vying for the attention of the parents, believing that they were the favored and the righteous. But not until a wrestling match did one gain the favor of God, but that story is for another day.
The Integrity
[29] And Jacob sod pottage: and Esau came from the field, and he was faint: [30] And Esau said to Jacob, Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red pottage ; for I am faint: therefore was his name called Edom. [31] And Jacob said, Sell me this day thy birthright. [32] And Esau said, Behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me? [33] And Jacob said, Swear to me this day; and he sware unto him: and he sold his birthright unto Jacob. [34] Then Jacob gave Esau bread and pottage of lentiles; and he did eat and drink, and rose up, and went his way: thus Esau despised his birthright.
And this is where integrity went right out the window! I don’t know how long it was since Esau’s last meal, but I’m pretty sure he wasn’t on the edge of death! He was however famished and desirous of his brothers soup. An opportunity that Jacob took full of advantage of to con his brother out of his birthright. He traded a very temporal satisfaction for a lifetime of inheritance.
The writer of Hebrew says this of Esau: Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.
While Jacob’s character at this point was certainly in question, Esau is said to have despised his part of the world to come, he denied the resurrection of the dead, and had no regard to the spiritual blessings or to the Messiah. Jacob, who like every man on the earth is flawed, becomes Israel through a change of heart and obedience to God.
I see the world as having Esau’s heart. While Esau was seemingly more productive than his brother Jacob, his lack of respect for the things of God caused him to lose everything of importance. Today the world focus’ on their own opinions being more important than truth and their disregard for their own inheritance of the Kingdom of God will leave many in the church lacking.
I pray that as I continue working and serving the Lord, I pray that my words always align with scripture and that the flesh has no part of this message.
It usually takes multiple attacks, tears of frustration and self blame, nausea and a weakened spirit to the point of utter despair before I finally hear the Spirit of God say to me, “Shari, You’re under attack.” It wasn’t that He probably hadn’t said it several times. He may have even nudged me or spiritually slapped the back of my head but as always, I’m distracted. I could chock it up to being a slower learner, but that would imply I’d “learn” and do better next time. That is probably not the case.
Attacks come in many forms and are usually quite unique to our own vulnerabilities. Our weaknesses are not hidden from Satan and his minions; they know what captivates our attention and what will feel like we’ve been struck by a violent blow to the gut. Dramatic? But of course, Satan loves drama! And he’s an excellent actor. His first stage was the garden, deceiving Eve, and he’s been adding acts to the same old show since then. We are not slow learners, we’re no learners. At least in my experience.
So what’s the point of me telling you something you likely already know? Because I know it too, but as I drew the image for this post, (before I wrote the post) it was so obvious that I was in the midst of an attack and hadn’t even realized it because I was so wrapped up in my drama.
Peter tells us in 1 Peter 5:8 KJV
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
The Devil has one job until all of Hell breaks loose during the tribulation… having God’s people for lunch. That’s why Peter tells us that we need to be sober and vigilant. Seriously on the lookout! Satan is slinking around in the shadows waiting for an opportunity to pounce.
He did not miss that snarky little comment your husband made… and so he replays it in your mind again and again until it’s blown so far out of proportion from it’s intent.
He did not miss that you felt like the fifth wheel at the last dinner. You’re never in the click. And so you’ll avoid them all. Yay! Now Satan now has even more time to mess with your head.
The images on social media look so perfect. And so silent. They do not tell the storylines behind the smiles of the broken families and imperfect relationships. You just know your life is no where near as great, and then the comparison starts.
Everyone of those examples and countless more have happened to me. I’m a full course dinner for Satan anytime he wants to have me for lunch. He knows that all he has to do is bring attention to an issue and then I’ll take over from there, making a mountain size problem out of it. Call me gullible. It’s okay.
So what’s the answer? Read Peter’s advice to his friends…
1 Peter 5:9-11 KJVS
[9] Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. [10] But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. [11] To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Resist Him. Satan loves to be the center of attention. That’s what his entire life has been about. Trying to get himself into the place of God. Ignoring him and focusing on your faith and your relationship with God will be what wins the victory over these battles.
Remember you’re not alone. Everyone faces theses same battles, it’s just that theirs are geared to their vulnerabilities. You may never struggle with what they do, or vice versa, but the struggle is every bit as real and hard to overcome for each of you. If only our focus could be on that rather than on the comparison of how easy their life assuredly is. I have this conversation with myself all the time when I look at the “perfect” lives of others. I’m only seeing a snapshot, not the full story. Their life might break me completely if I knew the truth of it.
Refuse Satan’s words. God has not called you to have the spirit of fear, or frustration but rather there is a work God has called you to do. Which is what Satan is trying to get you off task from. By refusing and rebuking him for lying and manipulating your world you can take charge of the situation. But you have to turn him off like a staticky radio station.
Refresh yourself. Take time to read and study the word of God. Get in the presence of God’s people and focus on what you can do for them. This is my advice for me. Do with it what you will, but I know for certain if I don’t follow my own advice, I’m going to have a miserable day.
I love to hear the stories of my families faith. Some of it I grew up with, but was unsaved and ignorant to its meaning in my life, and much of it took place before there was me, or I was too young to understand at all. And such was the story of my Dad, Gene Paul Hardway, as told to me by my cousin Jerry Hughes. Jerry, fortunately for me, not only has great faith, but he has a great memory of spiritual matters with family. I could listen to o him for hours because now, it has meaning. Great meaning.
The story was told (as well as I recall) that at an old time revival in the hills of Braxton County, West Virginia my Dad stood to testify and the Holy Spirit took charge. His testimony went from testifying to preaching, and as he preached on the old wooden platform, he danced. My Dad’s dancing was a cross between a clogging style and a soft shoe. Not showy, just softly. I witnessed him do that many, many times as a child and as an adult. He loved to dance. But this night he danced in the Spirit. Jerry said that Dad apologized to the congregation for the dancing, to which they responded for it to continue as long as he liked because they too knew that the Spirit had a hold of my dad. .
It was such a sweet story.You’d have understand my Dad’s demeanor to appreciate the story. He was the most kind hearted, gentle man I ever knew. He never cared if he had the latest and the greatest. He knew and lived apostle Paul’s verse in Philippians 4:11 KJV, “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” A matter I’ve struggled with.
So on this Father’s Day weekend, in honor of my earthly Father who is now with my Heavenly Father I share this story and these thoughts on Psalm 149.
Don’t be Shocked
PSALM 149 [1] Praise ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints. [2] Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King.
My heritage (and yours) goes back much farther than that time in the hills of West Virginia when my Dad danced. I have to wonder if Adam didn’t dance in the garden. It doesn’t say he did, but I’d imagine it to be the case. What was the music? Maybe the song birds. Only God knows. But since then, dancing has got a bad rap. Literally. I really don’t understand why unless Matthew 11: 15-19 is an indication.
[15] He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. [16] But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows, [17] And saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented. [18] For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil. [19] The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.
Religion! Always a sour note in life’s song. Far be it from any of the religious tribe to dance. They are far too “dignified” (aka dead) for that. Regardless of what those in the Spirit do, the dead will make light or evil of it. They did in Jesus’ day, and they do in ours. Judgement abounds in the church setting.
Do I think we should dance in the church. No. It’s not that I would mind if someone did (so long it was of the Spirit’s leading) But the problem is there are always those who find the need for showmanship. And while my Dad was of a meek and gentle spirit, not everyone is. But from Christ’s own words he acknowledged the deadening of the religious and it was not good.
Dancing is only mentioned 37 times in scripture both old and new. So from that I think we can surmise that it was not be be a major part of worship. But we also should not be shocked if it happens!
Don’t be Stupid
PSALM 149 [3] Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. [4] For the Lord taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation. [5] Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds.
The song of salvation! Of what joy those words bring to my heart. I understand my Dad’s dance. I understand it so well I got me some clogging shoes a few months ago. I hope to learn how to clog just for the fun of it. (Not in worship… although I might praise Him while I dance,) especially if I don’t collapse from a heart attack! But what struck me as pertinent to our blog today from this verse is the fact that David said God would beautify the meek. What my Dad did in that little country church was a beautiful thing. He was overcome by the Spirit with gladness in his heart for the salvation Christ had afforded him. Like me, my Dad was in his 30’s when he accepted Christ as his Savior. There was a lot of water (and sin) under our bridges. We knew what God had saved us from and we are grateful! I believe it was because of Dad’s “meekness” that God was glorified in that moment. He wasn’t behaving out of control (stupidly). He was in the perfect control of the Spirit of God.
Don’t be Silenced
PSALM 149 [6] Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a twoedged sword in their hand; [7] To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people; [8] To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; [9] To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the Lord.
It’s an honor to be a mouthpiece of the Lord. I was born for that! My Dad used to call me Charlie because of a character played by Bernadette Peters, who was a loud mouthed woman on a sitcom back in the day. For some reason, I reminded Dad of her. Go figure! But Dad may have seen in me (at least I hope) the potential that Christ would get a hold of this mouth and use it for His glory.
On this Father’s Day weekend, I’m so proud to be the daughter of the meek Gene Paul Hardway. But, I’m even prouder to be the child of the King along with my earthly Father. I hope you enjoyed this memory as much as I did, and I pray you have a blessed Father’s Day!
I just went back and re-read yesterday’s Jesus Chick post. Oh. My. Stars. And. Garters! The grammatical errors and typos were beyond. I really should go back and fix it, and I really need a proof reader, but neither of those things are likely going to happen because when I write these blogs it’s often in the wee hours of the day, or I’m typing at lightening speed (the way I talk.) Mouth engaged. Brain not so much. Which is how I do life. Fast and furious, hoping nobody get hurt in the process. This morning that caused me to slow down and ponder the intents of my heart.
It started when a prayer request popped up on my social media feed for someone who no longer attends our church for reasons I know not why. The flesh took hold of me for a split second until the chastisement of the Lord took a stronger grip when I allowed the thought to enter my head, “You’re going to seriously pray for them after they hurt you like they did?” Yes, I’m that wicked. I don’t play church. So when someone leaves my congregation for questionable reasons I’m hurt. I’m hurt for the Pastor. I’m hurt for God. I’m hurt for me because I miss them. It’s a character flaw that God’s working on.
Typos and character flaws have a lot in common.
Both are unintentional. Both are often caused by no brain engagement. Speed is a factor.
The Unintentional Faux Pas
Paul said it for me in Romans 7:19 KJVS
[19] For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
I would never intentionally hurt someone. I have many flaws, but being mean isn’t one of them. As a matter of fact, I’ve been told that I could be a little harsher, I just don’t have it in me. Nor do I think it’s what Christ would have me do. But I can’t say that I haven’t hurt people without intent. It probably happened when I was speaking without thinking. While I know I’m forgiven, it still may come with regret and consequences. And just because I’m forgiven, and aware, doesn’t mean that this blog won’t have just as many typos and my life still won’t have regrets. Being human is a harsh reality.
So my thought for today, that perhaps you’d like to ponder as well is “How can I slow this train down?” How can I be more intentional about doing good, and less unintentional about doing bad.
As I write this I’m sitting on my porch and it’s a brisk 59 degrees this morning. But that doesn’t stop the critters from entertaining me, especially the hummingbirds. They’re fragile little bodies are so tiny you’d think that they’d still be huddled in their nest. But no, they’re flitting about the feeder going a hundred miles an hour and my first thought is, I’ll bet that’s how people see me. Lighting here, lighting there. Never anywhere for long.
Slow this train down Shari.
I wish I were like the lightening bugs. They also fly, but ever…so…slowly. And they light up! I’m always looking for ways to sparkle. The problem is I’m more like a lightening bolt than a sparkle which isn’t always bad. Eleven verses in the book of James summed up my dilemma this morning.
James 1:17-27 KJVS
Destined to Sparkle!
[17] Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. [18] Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
Nobody is any more surprised than me when God’s word fits so cleverly into my train of thought. It’s like the question, “Which came first the chicken or the 🥚 egg?” The answer is God. He is the Almighty Awesome Creator! Of both the gift and the giver. He creates us to be who we are, and even though we mess that up, He even built into the plan an agent of forgiveness. His own Son. He made this Jesus Chick to sparkle and spoke me into being just as He did that little zippity zip hummingbird!
Designed to Listen
I love the quote that says “The reason God gave us two ears and one mouth is because He wanted us to listen twice as much as we talk.” Boy o boy do I have issues with that!
[19] Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: [20] For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. [21] Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. [22] But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. [23] For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: [24] For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. [25] But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
I’m relatively sure any wrath I feel is likely because I didn’t take the time to listen and study the situation out. When David and I have what I call a “Mr. & Mrs.” (aka disagreement) it’s more often than not because one of us didn’t listen and consider the other’s side. How much sweeter life would be if before I judged someone’s intentions I’d consider their reasons. Hmmm… God’s word is so faithful!
The latter part of that verse brings up the mirror and the fact that when we walk away we forget what we look like. A fact for which I’m happy about this morning with my crazy hair and yesterdays make up. But it’s not good at all when we walk away from he word of God, which serves as a mirror to our soul, and like this word this morning reminds me of where I need some serious attention.
Listen Shari….
Dealing with Deception
[26] If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain. [27] Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
Satan’s strategies from the garden of Eden was deception. It’s still his weapon of choice when dealing with the children of God. If he can capture our attention with the mirrors of earth which only show our earthly image, he can change our focus from God’s design to a self centered diva. Then we’re not listening and visiting those who need visited or taking care of the afflicted but rather we’re just taking care of us. Which is what this “me” generation is all about.
Once again I have a dozen things on my agenda today and only 6 or so will fit. I’m glad for this morning’s study which reminds me to slow this train down and enjoy the opportunities I have to serve. I hope it helped you too! Please let me know if you’ve been encouraged by this word. And if you have please share this blog with your friends. Perhaps they need to sparkle today too!
One of my standard phrases when trying to express disbelief or surprise in something is “For the love of Pete.” I’m not really sure where that phrase originated. According to Google, you know… the indisputable truth (I’m joking of course) the phrase began as a substitute for using the Lord’s name in vain. Hopefully Peter doesn’t mind. But I was I was having moments of shock and awe as I read Peter’s words this morning in 1 Peter, chapters 1 and 2. The flood of guilt pouring down on my own soul is not up for debate. I fully understand 1 Peter 2:25 KJV
[25] For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
We’re headed home baby! Because of the willingness of the Savior to take the sins of this wretched person upon Himself, I can live in the freedom of Salvation. Therein lies the confusion for many, especially those who mock the Baptist who believe in “once in grace always in grace,” and the Baptist who misunderstand it and make a mockery out of their salvation. That’s right, let’s just lay it on the table today and deal with the mess of our own lives. Just because I’m the Jesus Chick, doesn’t mean that I don’t fail God daily. It’s not that I too haven’t taken grace lightly, oh believe me when I say, it’s been far too often. Thank God for grace. “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” Whoever came up with that acronym did great!
It was not by happenstance that Christ uses sheep to describe his children. Sheep are the perfect representation of the human race. They are gullible little creatures, apt to stray and easily lead to their own destruction if away from the Shepherd for any time at all. Sound vaguely familiar? If I am not in God’s word every day, my mind is on the fence line, getting ready to go over when something shines in the neighboring field. I know I use a lot of euphemisms in my writing. I do that because I don’t want to tell you what a fickle sinner I am and give you too many details on my life. And while I spend my days writing words that hopefully bring folks closer in their relationship with Christ by pointing out where we fail in life, it’s because the material comes from myself. And I know, if I struggle, probably other people do too. So together we can strengthen one another through experiences. You know…. iron sharpens iron. A good proverb to keep in mind.
It’s also good when we can remind one another that we are all sinners saved by grace. So that when someone points out “those Baptist” who are living like their accountable to no one, we can remind ourselves that are most assuredly accountable to God. And that if you can sin without the conviction of Christ, you might want to check whether or not you belong to Him. And if you can point out the sins of another person and not look upon your own, you too might want to check your salvation.
It’s been way too apparent in my life lately when others want to throw stones and come to me for some ammo that I know too much about too many people. God has entrusted me with a great deal of information and sometimes it can spill out when I don’t want it too. I quickly see my error, but it’s often too late. I’ve judged another and haven’t considered myself. I’m trying to be a better human. But for the love of Pete! I have a lot of work to do. There was no shock and awe that I’m a sinner. I’m very aware of that. The shock and awe that I have for 1 Peter 2:25 is that we are “now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.” It seems all roads lead me back to Jeremiah 1:5 KJV
[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.
And now… following our acceptance as Christ as Savior and believing in His work upon the cross we are returned to Him. Full circle. He knew me before I was formed in my Momma’s belly, He know the ungrateful sinner I am today and yet He takes care of this dumb sheep as the Shepherd and Bishop of my soul. Glory to God that makes me happy this morning!
How about you? Does that stir your soul up today for the goodness of the Savior toward you? If it does, how about sharing my post. If it makes you wonder what’s missing in your life, send me a note through Facebook on the messenger on this website and I’d be glad to pray for you and if you’d like with you.
