Category: Church Unity

Posted in Christian, Church attendance, Church Unity

The Un-Assembling of the Local Church

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

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

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

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

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

John 14:23-31 KJV
Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. [24] He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me. [25] These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. [26] But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. [27] Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. [28] Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I. [29] And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe. [30] Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me. [31] But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

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

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

2. There’s Trouble and There’s Fear

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

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

3. Satan is Very Real

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

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

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

Love ya! Shari, the Jesus Chick

Posted in Christian, Church Unity, Forgiveness, Life Inspiration

It could be a Wood Shed Kind of Day

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on It could be a Wood Shed Kind of Day

I had a friend come to me in church on Wednesday night (yes, there is church on Wednesday night 😬) and my friend had great concern about the behaviors of some people in our community. Behaviors of anger and resentment, lashing out at people publicly without consideration for their testimony as a child of God. This person was absolutely broken hearted at what was happening. 

I’m not throwing stones, I’ve been guilty myself at times, but for my sake and the sake of my friend, I’m turning to the only answer that I know to be truth and that is the word of God. 

It’s 1:32 a.m., He woke me up and said, we need to talk, get My word and I’ll meet you there, and so I did. 

I’ve been in Genesis for another reason, so I turned there to start my journey, and low and behold it was there I found the answer as to why people get angry.

Genesis 4:1-6 KJV

And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said, I have gotten a man from the LORD. [2] And she again bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. [3] And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. [4] And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: [5] But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. [6] And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen?

The Fallen Countenance

Gil’s commentary says and his countenance fell; the briskness and cheerfulness of his countenance went off, and he looked dejected; and instead of lifting up his face towards heaven; he looked with a down look to the earth; he looked churlish, morose, and sullen, ill natured, full of malice and revenge, and as if he was studying which way to vent it; he knit his brows and gnashed his teeth, put on a surly countenance; and there might be seen in his face all the signs, not only of grief and disappointment, but of rage and fury; though some interpret it of shame and confusion.

Note that the commentary said he first took his eyes off God and placed it on his brother. That will cause a change in countenance every time, good or bad, depending upon your feelings toward the person you’re looking at. I had to do my own soul searching because there are some people who cause my countenance to change when I am in their presence. Why? Because I don’t like the way they treat people. It is then that I have spiritual confusion because God says that vengeance is not mine, it is His, but am I to turn my back on the way these people conduct themselves? That’s a tough question, I am not their judge, but I too will stand before God accountable for how I handle my life.

God knew Cain’s heart long before his countenance changed. It had less to do with his brother than it did with his own pride and the fact he didn’t like the truth. Most people don’t.

There’s no sacrifice in veggies. 

I may be taking it a little too lightly when I say that God didn’t want Cain’s side dish. The blood was always needed to point forward to the blood of Christ that was required to take away the sins of man. God had shown Adam and Eve upon the act of their own sin that blood had to be shed; they no doubt had told their children the story. The best and the first of the flock was required. Just because Cain was a keeper of the flock, didn’t mean he couldn’t have brought a sacrifice to the Lord of a lamb. But his pride got in the way. And that pride took root in his heart and grew into jealousy and hatred for his brother.

There are many things that can cause contention in the hearts of people who disagree. But pride is almost always the root of it. I am right, you are wrong. I am worthy you are not. Personalities clash, opinions and politics divide and good people can lose composure until they have nothing good to say about anyone or anything. That anger may not lead to murder but it certainly destroys. It destroys friendships and it tears at the very spirit of the community. 

In the 1828 Dictionary it defines countenance  – To favor; to encourage by opinion or words. Cain no longer had anything good to say. Even if Cain had brought nothing, it would have been better than to have presented the wrong thing to God. There was no lives lost in the garden for the beans and tomatoes. But Cain could have stood behind his brother and said “I claim the blood!” Praise God so can we. 

In the book of Psalm 42, David speaks of his own countenance when it comes to his suffering with Saul but he uses a song from the days of Moses. If you read the short chapter, the song David sings is of Korah, who was at the head of a conspiracy against Moses and Aaron, for which sin the earth opened its mouth, and swallowed alive him and his company, and fire devoured two hundred and fifty more; the history of which is recorded in Numbers 16:1. David felt the SAME frustration of conspiracy from the treatment he received from Saul. David had supported and defended Saul, but Saul’s pride caused him to resent David to the point of wanting him dead. In that Psalm David wrote:

Psalm 42:5 KJV

Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.

Psalm 42:11 KJV

Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.

David wasn’t relying on himself to keep his countenance. He knew that God would have to provide the grace to make it through. In the flesh David would have wanted to kill Saul and move on, he was to be King and all would have been justified. But he chose rather to wait in humility for the Lord to provide the way out. It wasn’t a quick fix. It wasn’t that David was a perfect man, he’d had other times of failing miserably, as do we. But this was a time when David waited for the victory of the Lord.

I find it ironic that even though Cain lived in a world that had not been as jaded with sin as the one we now live in, and yet his first reaction was murder. It proves that the depravity of man can be found in anyone. The difference in countenance between Cain and Able was their focus. Cain’s was on self and Abel’s was toward the Lord.  

David said that he would praise God who is the  “health of my countenance”. David chose rather to focus on God than the evil Saul was doing and the hurt it caused to his heart. What David faced was nothing we could even imagine. Nobody is chasing us into a cave to kill us in the United State. And yet in today’s society we behave as though petty differences are the equivalency of it and gives us the right to tear down people and play the role of Saul. We’d much rather pretend that we are David because he was the hero of the story. But is that the case? I really am asking for a friend.

This short study was just a reminder to myself that the flesh does the talking most of the time in my life. If we want to live a successful Holy Spirit filled life we’ve got to begin by taking a serious look at how we’re behaving. I have a feeling if we did, it would be a woodshed kind of day for the most of us. 

Posted in Church attendance, Church Unity, Word of God, worship

Somebody’s got to be the Bad Guy

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Somebody’s got to be the Bad Guy

For almost 61 years I have been the type person that wanted to make people at the very least smile, and if possible laugh. I love hearing laughter! But I am so outspoken, so opinionated in what I believe that I sometimes leave people with a scowl, but seldom a face of indifference. I have friends who are much the same. My friend Steve Boggs has made people laugh, and he too has made people not so happy when he shared the truth of the Word of God. 

He was bringing a devotion to a group of friends the other day and as he closed his message out, he referenced the harshness of the truth to people in the world. And he said “Hey, Somebody’s got to be the bad guy.”

Ain’t it the truth!  I couldn’t get my mind away from that thought. Kermit the Frog has a song titled “It not easy being green.” Well it’s not easy being red either (meaning conservative). Although I guess I’m a little red neck too, but for the sake of this post, we’ll say it stands for conservative and more than anything else, I want to be biblical. The Bible in no way shape or form aligns with what’s going on in the world today. Republican or Democrat. And there are many who say they believe the Bible is the inerrant word of God, except they change the very definition of it when the won’t stand on what it says. On both the Republican and Democrat sides of the isle. So let’s just agree to be biblical!

God’s not political. But we live in a political world and need to do the best we can to defend God’s word and point people to the saving grace of Jesus Christ. So we have to take a stand, and it often makes a Christian the bad guy. Because most everyone in the world wants you to, at the very least, not oppose them. You don’t have to agree, but for Pete’s sake never tell them they’re wrong.

Praise God that we have an example like the Apostle Paul who tells the Galatian in Chapter 4:23 “Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?”

The Galatians were once again listening to the Jewish leadership who wanted to keep them in bondage to the law. But Paul, serving and preaching Christ, warns them of how that method keeps them in bondage. But to follow the salvation of Christ, (which is never through works but faith alone) allows them to live free, forgiven, without the need to “do” anything. Should that not be good news? 

As Christians, we’re to share that message. Jesus forgives, Jesus saves, Jesus frees. But the world hears it as “I can’t be who I want to be.” 

Nope. You can be better!

Paul tells his friends in verse 21 of that same chapter “Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?”

Can you Hear What You’ve Accepted as Truth?

While nobody who has accepted the current liberal way of thinking would say they’re accepting the law (more than likely that is how they see us.) But what they’re accepting is very much what the Jewish leadership wanted from the people of Galatia. Just do what we say, and question nothing. The law has said that we have to march to the politically correct drum, giving special rights to those who make truth a lie – –  if not we’re in violation. Anyone with any sense knows that babies are born either male or female. That’s not up for debate. But the world has made it a new truth. There is nothing new under the sun, scripture says that too.

The world says truth is subjective. Nope. If it is based on feelings or emotions, it’s absolutely not truth. I can feel differently every day of the week. Truth is fact. Not anything is up for debate.

Paul goes on to tell the Galatians of the Old Testament story of Abraham. Who had two children, one with Sarah his wife, after he had one with Hagar his bond maid.  The child he had with Hagar was born into bondage, a child of the flesh, the child that was born to Sarah was the child of promise. The child of freedom. 

Can you hear What you’ve accepted as Law?

Paul said in verses 22-23

For it is written that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.

Hagar’s son Ishmael mocked Issac the son of Sarah. Can you hear the mocking of the Christian faith today?

Genesis 21:8-12 KJV

And the child grew, and was weaned: and Abraham made a great feast the same day that Isaac was weaned. [9] And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she had born unto Abraham, mocking. [10] Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac. [11] And the thing was very grievous in Abraham’s sight because of his son. [12] And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called.

It is hard for us to comprehend Old Testament ways. Throwing a child and his mother out into the cold, how would a loving God justify that? God knew what the future held for the children of Israel, the legitimate offspring of Abraham. Those born of the promise. They would have to face centuries of persecution, death and ridicule by the the ancestors of Ishmael. We know those ancestors today to be of Iraq. We also know their laws… We know that they have a fraction of the freedom we have, and yet we provide more defense for their religion than our faith. A religion that murders without penalty and abuses without retribution. Why would people want that for their children? Can they not see what they have accepted as law.

Who Hindered you from the Truth? 

Paul told the people what they did not want to hear. He played the bad guy so that he could save the people from themselves. 

Galatians 5:1-8 KJV

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. [2] Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. [3] For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. [4] Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. [5] For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. [6] For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. [7] Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? [8] This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you.

I’ll be the bad guy if it saves my friends. I’m trying to get you to see and accept what Jesus Christ did on the cross as the finished work. I’m trying to get you to see that when you read the word of God, the truth is not up for debate, nor is it up to private interpretation. And if you read it, the Spirit reveals to you the truth to make you free.

I know this to be fact because God has revealed the word to me again and again. Don’t believe the lie of the Devil that says you can’t understand the Bible. The King Jame Version, (the version I use) is written in a way that children can understand. There are far more complex words in the newer versions of the Bible, many of which change the definition entirely of the scripture. 

Before anyone calls outspoken Christians the bad guy, you should first read the Bible for yourself.

Glenn Beck, of Blaze TV, asked for prayer the other day for Tucker Carlson. Carlson is the recently fired, very well known host of Fox News. So well known he was the number one news show on the air. So why would they fire him? Because he refused to stop telling the truth. But that’s not the reason Glenn asked for prayer. He asked for prayer because Tucker, as a devout Episcopalian, confessed that he had never read the Bible. “It’s not encouraged in their faith,” he said. But in an effort to understand spiritual matters he had taken it upon himself to read it. And he’s amazed. He’s soaking it in like a sponge and has fallen in love with the Word of God. Isn’t that amazing?! Imagine the reach that Tucker Carlson has and what he could do with the truth of God. He does need prayer. 

But what about our reach. What about every single person you come into contact with? What if that’s only a couple of family members? Well, do you want them to go Hell or are you willing to risk the offense of telling them about Jesus? Nobody will be calling you the bad guy for hurting their feelings when they’re in Heaven!

Posted in Christian, Church Unity, Evangelism, Grace

Marching to the Beat of Your Own Drum

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Marching to the Beat of Your Own Drum

I was told once, and lived it out myself, that if I played guitar alone too often, I’d have my own rhythm and have difficulty playing with other musicians. And so it was one night at a bluegrass jam that one of my favorite tunes was unrecognizable for the other musicians because I had changed the beat during my solo playing at home.

As I sat this morning weeping for a lost fellowship, I couldn’t help but reflect on that story. It is likewise true that if a person is out of fellowship with spiritual people, they too will find themselves out of step with the truth. They’ll march to their own beat, and if they hear it long enough, nobody else will be right in there mind.

One of the most widely known and shared verses when it comes to staying in fellowship with the church is Hebrews 10:25.  But like many wonderful scriptures it’s often plucked out of the center and the words leading to and from it are ignored. When the writer wrote Hebrews 10, He was likely having a conversation with  saved Jews. Many of which would have been often conflicted about no longer keeping the Jewish religious laws. He says as much in verse 1-4.

Hebrews 10:1-4 KJVS

[1]] For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. [2] For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. [3] But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year. [4] For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.

Every year those critters were offered up for the forgiveness of the people, with the knowledge that the next year, there would need to be a payment once again. The blood of the animals was not a permanent fix. But it was a way of life for Israel. So like most religious folk, anything new was going to have an adjustment period.

Hebrews 10:5-9 KJVS

 [5] Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: [6] In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. [7] Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. [8] Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein ; which are offered by the law; [9] Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. 

And so it was established that the law was now grace. No longer could they do anything to bring their own salvation, it was only by Christ’s finished work on the cross. A matter many churches even yet today, under the guise of Christianity still use. They want to do something… be baptized, join the church, wear the right clothes, sing the right songs, etc. etc. and God said no, it is by the blood of my Son. Alone. And what you do in His name, better point the world to Him alone.

But along the way man has interpreted and twisted scripture in such a manner that it would fit into their own agenda for their own church and God’s people became a division of over 45,000 denominations. 

Hebrews 10:10-14 KJVS

[10] By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. [11] And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: [12] But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; [13] From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. [14] For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.

One offering. One way. Not 45,000. 

One Spirit

Hebrews 10:15-16

 [15] Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before, [16] This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; 

Once a confession of faith has been made, that you confess that you believe in that finished work of Jesus Christ; His Spirit, also known as the Holy Ghost, comes within you and speaks to your heart and to your mind. Another matter that a preacher worth a grain of salt won’t refute. God speaks through His word, through His Spirit and through His people called into His service. He speaks to the heart of man and to the mind of man. So if that is how God speaks, why is fellowship with other Christians necessary?

The second a man (or woman as the case may be) goes off on their own, it won’t be long until they’ll be out of step with the Word of God. Is this 100%, across the board fact? No. I believe there are those that God calls and equips to be on their own for what ever reason and for a specific time. But not indefinitely. 

Remember that rhythm I spoke of? If you pull yourself into an exclusive position without regard for the rhythm of anyone else, they can’t encourage you and you won’t encourage them. And it won’t matter how “right” you are. You’ll be of no earthly good for the Lord. 

45,000 denominations are not correct. As the Word said, there is but One way to salvation.

My Dad, Gene Paul Hardway, refused to join a church. He stood by that conviction even when the church he attended for 20 years removed him from teaching. They eventually asked him back because the people knew he knew the word of God. I am inclined to join my dad’s belief. I’ve been a Baptist for 26 years. Without regret. The Baptist people grew me into the woman of God that I am through discipleship. But over time I have slowly became less and less impressed with the “religious in the Baptist movement.” They are no different than the Pharisees who looked down their noses at the peasants called Christians and called them heretics. Because those Christians were not a formal religion. 

They just believed in Jesus. 

And so that leads us into the well known verse of 25

Hebrews 10:17-25

[17] And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. [18] Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. [19] Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, [20] By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; [21] And having an high priest over the house of God; [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. 

What a novel idea! Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works. Not to  lord wisdom and authority over the believers as if they’re too ignorant to understand the word of God or too lowly to be spoken to by the Spirit. We are to exhort… ENCOURAGE… one another. Good grief this world is pathetic. Why should we focus on how pathetic it is when we serve a God that dwells within us and desires a conversation that is encouraging and uplifting. Not once have I been beaten down by the Lord. But buddy…. The world has thumped me on multiple occasions. 

This was a reminder to myself, that I need people. But I don’t need people who don’t believe what the Lord has done in my life. God called me to the ministry in 2010. He’s yet to un-call me.

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian, Church Unity, Evangelism, Praisee, Purpose, salvation, worship

For All that’s Wrong, There’s Plenty that’s Right

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on For All that’s Wrong, There’s Plenty that’s Right

Have you ever been spiritually frustrated? Or should I ask “When’s the last time you were spiritually frustrated?” If you’ve walked the path of faith for any length of time at all, and by that I mean greater than 15 minutes, you’ve no doubt experienced it. But one would think that the longer and further you’ve walked, provided you’ve clung to the Rock, you would experience frustrations less. I have met very few (if any) people who don’t struggle.

I have witnessed those who get in a big way of talking and and say that they got in the face of the Devil and said “You’re a liar Satan, and I rebuke you in the name of Jesus to get out of my life.” And then according to their testimony, he did. I’ll just tell you from my stand point, I’m going to let God do the rebuking of Satan, because any time I’ve tried it, Satan has came at me that much harder. I’m not always sure it’s Satan I should be giving the credit to for the hard times any way, I’m sure I am often to blame. But struggles come and go and with them, many conversations with God.

So as I read through the short book of Habakkuk following a funeral yesterday, his words struck a chord in my soul.

Watch and See

Habakkuk 2:1 KJVS
I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved.

Have I been watching? Have I had any desire to see what the Lord has to say about the recent frustrations in my life? I have to ask myself that honestly. I tell you often that I am quick to ask and slow to listen. It’s as if I’m a toddler who looks at a parent right before they stick their hand in the fire and then is shocked with the result. Other times it’s like the child who falls and scrapes their knee and screams bloody murder because a parent wants to put medicine on it, only to discover the medicine took away the pain. Watch and see…

Habakkuk looked high, he didn’t look low. He did not seek man’s advice but went to the One and only capable of answering. He didn’t stir the masses up with his problems and he didn’t assume that Judah wasn’t the problem. He only knew that God would take care of them some how. He asked and then he listened. Hmmm… I could learn.

What He Will Say

When the Lord answers He gives Habakkuk an instruction.

Habakkuk 2:2 KJVS
[2] And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.

Write it down. And here we are over 2500 years later, reading the words that he wrote that God continues to speak through. That’s amazing! God told Habakkuk to write down the vision, a plan for the future and Habakkuk listened to his Lord’s words. God was sending a warning out to the people that judgement was going to come. It’s still true today. Sometimes it’s swift, but as it was in the day of this text sometimes God waits for a while to bring everything to fruition so that it can be understood and work for His glory.

I hate to wait. I have a microwave mentality most of the time. But if I think about the fire of an oven in comparison to the artificial heat of a microwave, the baking result is vastly different. It’s always better in the oven. Slower… but oh so good.

Wait for it

Habakkuk 2:3-4 KJVS

[3] For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. [4] Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.

Waiting requires trust. Trust that come what may, it’s for my good.

This chapter records God’s answers to the questions that challenged Habakkuk’s faith: (1) How long would evil prevail (1:2-3)? (2) Why was Babylon chosen to punish Judah (1:13)? God said that the judgment against evil, though slow to come, was certain. And though God used Babylon to punish Judah, God also knew Babylon’s sins and would punish it in due time.

But what are we to do in the wait? For me I think I should consider what my role in these battles has been. Facing the reality that I could be the problem or at the very least a part of it. Habakkuk didn’t go up and get his answer and then storm down because God’s truth wasn’t what he wanted. He accepted God’s truth that there were those whose soul’s were not upright. Does that happen today? That the souls of even God’s people are not always upright? The flesh is a very real adversary in the life of a Christian. Turning control of your frustrations and desires over to God and trusting Him to fix it isn’t easy.

The Answer…

Habakkuk 3:2 KJVS
O Lord, I have heard thy speech, and was afraid: O Lord, revive thy work in the midst of the years, in the midst of the years make known; in wrath remember mercy.

Revive thy work. That is the answer. I skirted all around it, trying to make far more out of Habakkuk’s message than needed to be. What I love about God’s word, among many things, is the simplicity of His speech. I often don’t go to the word because I too am afraid of God’s answer. I assume that even though the balm He’s about to put on my wound is for my own good, it’s going to be like Merthiolate. That bright reddish orang medicine our parents would put on a raw wound that burned like fire! But it is not. It’s a salve of goodness to the soul.

Revive thy work. The works trumps everything. Every little issue, every big issue on this earth means nothing in the scope of the work that the Christian is supposed to be doing. If we lose sight of that, then souls go to Hell.

I had a sermon from 2013 outlined in my bible from Habakkuk 3:17-19 that spoke to me again.

My notes said thus…

Yet I will rejoice – leave the doubters and get with the shouters!!
We need to practice
A salvation that is established on the Word of God
Phd can mean piled higher and deeper
Isaiah 40:8 the Word of our God will stand forever

God’s word never changes
God never changes
Sin never changes
Penalty for sin never changes
Plan of salvation never changes

God’s word is spiritually discerned

Habakkuk rejoiced in the God of His salvation. For all that is wrong in my world, there’s plenty that is right. I’ll focus on that and leave the rest to God.

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

Get in your Spot in the Yard and Guard it Well

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Get in your Spot in the Yard and Guard it Well

We have a new puppy at our house, Ellie May. She is basically a Heinz 57, but her breeds are Blue healer, Dachshund and Jack Russell. I guess that makes her a Gentile. My pure bread Miniature Chihuahua, Izzi, acts like an Old Testament Jewish leader, laying down the law. And though the pup already stands 2 or 3 inches above her, she is clearly the alpha dog of the house. The dogs and some other issues in my life have drawn my mind into the law a lot lately and caused me a much greater appreciation for grace.

One issue with Ellie May is boundaries. I attempted, unsuccessfully, to teach her the boundaries of our yard. But anything shiny would cause my discipline to go right out the window and she was not always easy to get back into our yard. Living close a highway forced us to put a shocking collar on her which was gut wrenching for me, but I knew it would save her life. Otherwise she’d be out in the road (again.) That shocking collar is the law. For Ellie it terrified her for a few days where she wouldn’t even go off the porch; and then little by little she has adjusted to where those boundaries are. She would not go near the dingle sound that occurs before the shock. But the collar base somehow got turned off this week and one evening Ellie was once again close the road. It didn’t take her long without the law to persuade her to go out past her boundary line.

Me either. Thank God for Grace.

Like Ellie May I’m a bit of a goober when it comes to learning lessons. I hate boundaries. The sky’s the limit, right? Well, only if God wants you in the sky, otherwise the fall is great. Adam had one rule, “Don’t eat of the tree of good an evil.” He did. When Israel received the law from Moses it was ten very clear rules. Nothing complex, or difficult to understand. It didn’t matter, they broke them anyway. The ten laws turned into 613. They broke those too. And now I don’t know where they stand with the law but for certain I say, Thank God for grace!!! If we can’t keep one rule, was there ever any chance for 613?

My point of that rant was to get to this point, what is the difference between modern Christianity and the Jewish law, besides grace. Depending upon which church you go into there may appear to be very little. Their hair may not be polled, they wouldn’t refer to the preacher as priest, but some do. The laws probably do not reflect those of the Old Testament and there’s likely sausage and bacon at a church breakfast. That’s grace I can bite into!

Recent (within the last few years)Halacha, the totality of laws and ordinances that have evolved since biblical times to regulate religious observances and the daily life and conduct of the Jewish people have been added to:

  • Hunchbacks must not bend near a church even if it hurts;
  • Lice must not be killed on Shabbat;
  • Hebrew newspapers must not be read on the toilet – English is allowed;
  • Jews must not donate organs to a Gentile – receiving is allowed;
  • It is permissible to degrade a woman on the kosher bus lines;
  • Violence may be used against those who distribute material contrary to the Torah.

Regarding the switching on of electrical appliances on Shabbat:

”Will ask for a foreigner who is not his son to do the work … Ask his son or daughter to do the work with shinui (change) … The big one will do the work himself with shinui, ie insert the plug into the socket with his mouth or elbow or back. You can also hold the plug and push it with your head into the socket.”

We Gentiles look at those and think… wow, how crazy is that?

But do the unsaved look at the denominations of the Christian church any differently?

  • Don’t clap at the end of a song.
  • Don’t raise your hand in praise
  • Don’t Amen or Hallelujah out of order
  • Women’s hair must not be cut
  • Don’t use a musical instrument in the church
  • Don’t sing praise songs
  • Women must wear dresses and of a certain length
  • Ministers must wear a white shirt, 
    tie, and dress coat
  • Men must not wear short pants
  • Women must wear skorts, not shorts
  • No wedding bands or other jewelry,
    other than watches, tie tacks, and 
    dress pins
  • No going to movies
  • No going to games
  • No going to theaters

Those are some I have experienced and some I have not, but what do any one of them have to do with salvation and should that not be the fundamental question when determining what happens in a church?

I’m sure there are many who disagree with me, and that’s okay. Remember, I said I had issues with boundaries, I am fully aware that I am a heathen.

When we get to Heaven does anyone really believe that as they stand before the throne of God, He’s going to say, “Did you seriously go see Smokey and the Bandit at the Theatre in 1977?” Is He going to ask, “why did you clap at the end of ‘God is an Awesome God’ when Sister Susie sang it in 2017, and by the way that’s a little jazzier than I like My music.” Come on people, that’s humanity, not God making rules. And before any Christians get their stones out of their pockets consider each and every word in Colossians 3 (well, I guess we should consider every word in the Word of God.) But for now lets just consider these:

Colossians 3:12-17 KJVS
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; [13] Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. [14] And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. [15] And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. [16] Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. [17] And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

The law is still there. Those original ten that God gave to Moses. And it may shock some of you as bad as Ellie’s shocking collar to know that God still expects them to be kept, but He knows and understands the weakness of every single man and woman on earth. Every one of them. Even the liberal extremist that get on my last nerve. He expects me to be the beloved with mercy, kindness, humility, meekness and long suffering. That means more than a few minutes of it. He expects His people to really forgive one another, not in word only, but in the heart. You know…. Like Christ forgave you when they hammered the nails over and over and over again into His body on the cross. And above all love one another, because that is the perfect way.

Now let’s move onto peace ruling in our hearts. Is it the rule? For certain it has not been with me lately. I need this scripture in my heart as I face the day. As I battle the demonic forces of the world that tell me to walk away from the church. The one’s that try to convince me that I can go it alone. I don’t need people. I just need Jesus. Well, that may work for someone one (although I doubt it), but it for certain doesn’t work for me. I love my people. And they love me, so why would I want to hurt them? I’m thankful God put them on my path.

Verse sixteen is the one that caught my eye this morning and caused my mind to ponder what the Lord meant. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” Teaching and “admonishing one another” in hymns and spiritual songs?

According to John Gil’s commentary, he says of this verse “in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs; referring very probably to the title of several of David’s psalms, משכיל; “Maschil”, which signifies giving instruction, or causing to understand; these psalms, and the singing of them, being appointed as an ordinance, of God to teach, instruct, admonish, and edify the saints; for the meaning of these three words, and the difference between them; see Gill on Ephesians 5:19.”

There is no ministry in the church that does not have purpose for not only the one doing the ministering but those who listen. If God gave us a gift, be it to preach, teach, sing, send a card or go pray with a saint, He did it for the purpose of either lifting a spirit, correcting a wrong, or edifying the body of Christ.

Today’s scripture edified me. It encouraged me to keep doing what I’m doing even in the face of adversity. How about you? Are you doing what God called you do? if you’re not, find you a biblical body of believers, set yourself in the middle of them and do what God says. Remember your boundaries… there are some, don’t let it shock you when God rolls you across the lawn and says get back in your spot. But if it’s your part of the yard… Guard it well.

Posted in Church Unity, Eternity, Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Praise

Why would you want to hang out with dead people?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Why would you want to hang out with dead people?

I was shocked when he said it. I cannot point you to the YouTube video, I kind of watched it in disbelieve and then moved on. But the thought kept being triggered in my mind. I’m not even sure what else he was reporting on, but he very nonchalantly said something about being apart of the dead Episcopalian church. Why would you want to hang out with dead people?

I have little tolerance over dead churches. It’s not that I don’t love the people. But the Lord deserves so much more! What kind of glory does it bring to the Lord when lifeless people, for whom God jerked from the bowels of Hell when they were saved, sit there like knots on a log?

Should We Finish Them Off?

That was his Disciples approach when, on his way to Jerusalem He stopped by a village of Samaritans. But they didn’t receive him.

Luke 9:51-58 KJVS
And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem, [52] And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. [53] And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. [54] And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? [55] But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. [56] For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. And they went to another village. [57] And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. [58] And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.

The disciples were going to wipe them off the face of the earth like Sodom and Gomorrah! I don’t know that I’ve ever been that frustrated with the dead church, but I may have been close a time or two. But these people were not the dead church, they were completely dead. Unsaved. My grandson Logan when he was a toddler would shoot you with his imaginary gun and if you attempted to come back to life he would say “You’re dead dead.” That’s what the unsaved are, they’re going to die twice. Dead dead. (Revelation 21:7-8)

Jesus rebuked them. He didn’t come to destroy, he came to save. Is that not our focus? It should be. Our first and foremost concern should be the salvation of souls. Pulling others out of Hell. If it’s not then we’re off kilter as a church. No matter how much knowledge you have or how holy you are, if your focus is not on the souls of men, you don’t understand why God sent you.

Should We Have their Funeral?

Luke 9:59-62 KJVS
[59] And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. [60] Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. [61]

Jesus wasn’t heartless. But He was telling this individual, taking care of the dead, is not your concern. We came to care for the living! I must say, there have been some funerals that I have thoroughly enjoyed. The person was saved, the family (tho sad) rejoiced in their home going. They understood that the person in the casket had graduated to a higher place of pure joy! But we were not meant to hang out with the dead, we should be concerned with seeing the living saved before they too lie in that casket.

I got somewhat of a second wind this week when I went for the results of my stress test and my doctor was as shocked as I was that the results were good! He knew and I knew that I had been treating my body like Romper Room and snack time, not the Temple of God. It reminded me that God will not always have mercy on my stupidity. Nor will He always allow me another opportunity to share the gospel. He’ll not always give dead churches an opportunity to live. Sometimes He’ll just let them die till the pews sit empty and their purpose is gone. Like Tucker Carson’s church.

Should We Tell Them Goodbye?

And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. [62] And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

When I left the first dead church, I didn’t know I was leaving. I went to visit a church and never left. At first it was the message of conviction that I was missing the purpose of my life. That God had created me to be His child and His servant and I had missed out on decades of joy by not knowing the truth of Salvation. The church I left didn’t understand why I left. There was a woman from the church showed up months later at my home with a gift because she had been my secret sister. She was weeping because I was no longer in the church. As a young naive new convert I thought, “I didn’t know you cared?” I didn’t know anyone in that church cared because they were dead! Well… all but a few. I didn’t tell them goodbye because I really, truly, without a doubt thought they didn’t know I existed. If you feel that in your church, don’t just walk out… run!

Can they be Resuscitated?

I guess that depends on if they’re dead, dead? Having a heart attack? Or playing dead?

The church I left was dead, dead. They were so dead they didn’t even know they were dead.

What about one in the process of having their heart attacked? They’re convinced they’re doing right. But Satan has blinded them to the fact that they are one step out of the grave and unless someone steps up and breathes new life into them, they’re gone. That is so very many churches. They’re going through the motions, but they’re not seeing any new lives in the church and there is for certain no joy.

Who wants to play dead? Your part of the game is over. You are no longer being used for the Kingdom of God but you’re just a pew sitter that will slowly but surely fade off into Heaven. I want to be the person alive and well, playing the game and bringing as many people into the church of God as I possibly can. The more the merrier! If you’re satisfied with your four and no more you have no clue how to play the game of life.

Can they be resuscitated? I hope so. But it will likely take a few cracked ribs and somebody else breathing life into them.

Not a very cheery message, but I pray it shocked someone into rhythm! Glory to God sing and shout His praises if He saved your soul!!

Posted in Christian, Christian Service, Church Unity

How Can People Know What to Believe?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on How Can People Know What to Believe?

Every day this world get’s more wicked and Christianity is a distant relic of what it once was. The further it gets away from the scriptural defining, the more confused I see people become. Is it any wonder that our churches are empty? How can people know what to believe with so many “versions” out there. I’m not talking about Bible versions, I’m talking about Christian versions. 

I seen a post the other day on social media where someone was going through a struggle. They confessed to be Christian, and yet their post asked for prayer “to whomever their friends prayed to,” or “good vibes” which is a comment that makes me want to puke. But I almost split a gasket in my brain trying to figure out how one can call themselves a Christian and make room for another god? 

I had this conversation with a family member several years ago who told me that when they attended their Masonic lodge meeting, they laid their Bible right next to everyone else’s. Of any faith. He was telling me that his god was equal to the others. Including the Quran. I just about stripped a gear on that one too. You’ll note the little “g”. I cannot be non vocal about such statements. It’s the very thing that is causing good churches to fail. The preacher may be preaching the doctrine of Christ as close to scripture as humanity will allow. But if he’s got a congregation filled with Facebookers and Instagrammers who undermine his teaching with stupidity, then whose going to show up to hear him preach? 

This is a late night post, when I’m tired, and cranky and have a house full of children, my last load of laundry for the week is in the machine, the dishwasher is running, my suitcase is packed for a girls trip in the morning and I have stuff on my mind I need to get off. That may not be a good combination. Or maybe it is. No filter isn’t always bad. I assure you this isn’t written in judgment, but observation. 

So here’s my rant in my favorite 3 point style.

Don’t be Talking Smack Against God

Daniel 3:29 KJVS

Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort.

I am so thankful that I was brought up with a very healthy fear of God. I knew He was a loving God, but I also knew at the age of nine that God held His people accountable. As I grew older I blocked that fear out, but hallelujah through the preaching of God’s word and the reading of His word I regained my healthy fear. 

When a person who professes to be a Christian, they are saying they believe:

  • Jesus died on the cross to pay the price for their sins and all of humanity’s.
  • He arose from the dead the third day took the keys to death and hell so that Satan had no power of those who believe. 
  • He is now in Heaven making intercession on our behalf, so that when we sin (and we do) He says to the Father, “That child is mine Father, my blood has covered their sin.” 
  • A child of God believes. That’s it. No more, no less. 

But when a child of God acknowledges any other god, they have opened the door for Satan to whisper in the ear of the unsaved, “see, even they believe in other gods.” 

When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, went into the fiery furnace, they didn’t ask anyone else to pray to their gods. It doesn’t say that they ask their people to pray, though I’m sure may have. What they said was:

Daniel 3:16-19 KJVS

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. [17] If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. [18] But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. [19] Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.

That is the child of God I want to be! (Preferably not in a furnace). Interestingly, it was Nebuchadnezzar who was the one who made the decree in verse 29, after he saw what the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego could do. He warned the people, “Don’t be talking smack about their God. Because if He doesn’t kill you, I will.” That of course is the Bible version according to Shari.  

If You’re Going to Say Something, Say it Loud

Mark 12:28-34 KJVS

And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? [29] And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: [30] And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. [31] And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. [32] And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he: [33] And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices. [34] And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.

The scribes were scholars of the Old Testament Law. They figured prominently in the ministry of Jesus; they were persecuting Him and were responsible for bringing Him to trial. Their persecution of Christians continued after His ascension. But in this text we have a scribe speaking with Jesus in a tone of respect, calling Him Master. Even Jesus notes that he is “not far from the Kingdom of God.” Was the scribe changing his mind about Who Jesus was? It didn’t say, but it did say that because of this line of questioning, Jesus stopped their mouths. 

As a child of God, I always tell you that I consider myself an utter failure. I know I could be far better than I am and I fail daily. But deed, I try to be a bold witness. It’s not always a comfortable spot to be in because there are many in the world who do not enjoy hearing the gospel of Jesus Christ. But I love talking about it. And in order to speak of it, you need to know it! Again, let me emphasize that I don’t know as much as I should, but what I know, and that is some, I speak loud. Because I want people to know the confidence I have in Christ. Not any in myself, but I’ve got all kinds in Him. I have that because for 27 years I have walked and talked on the road with Jesus and gone through trial after trial that He alone has brought me through. Many days that I honestly didn’t think I was going to make it. I have experienced miracles. I have prayed the prayer, “Dear God, I’m stupid, and you know I’m stupid, please get me out of this mess!” And He did. And sometimes He didn’t. And I can stand flat footed and eye to eye with an atheist who doesn’t know he believes and tell Him what I believe and why I believe it. 

This is why when I see a child of God wavering on God, I get frustrated for Him and them. If they acknowledge any other god besides Jesus Christ that says to the unsaved, “you don’t believe in Him either.”

Be loud and proud my Christian friends. When someone needs prayer, tell them, “Ima talk to Jesus for ya!” Don’t ever give Satan a foothold into a conversation by telling them you’re going to send them ‘good vibes,’ because that my friend is straight out of the pits of hell.

What You Say Has Got to Be Backed Up by Scripture

Not made up by man

Ephesians 4:1-13 KJVS

I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, [2] With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; [3] Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. [4] There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; [5] One Lord, one faith, one baptism, [6] One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. [7] But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. [8] Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. [9] (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? [10] He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) [11] And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; [12] For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: [13] Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

How can a person “keep the unity” and speak matters of separation? I have unsaved friends. But they are not friends who have ever asked me to deny my faith, walk a different path in my faith or accept what they believe as my one. Else, they’d not be someone I shared fellowship with. 

I do not argue scripture. I speak what it says, and let God do the arguing if it’s needed. Most of the time people have questions, not debates with me. And I’m always happy to answer because that is the greater depth of my learning is in finding the facts in the matter about what scripture says. 

This was indeed a rant, and probably to people in the same boat as me. But there is purpose in it. It’s to encourage myself and you who read this to read the Bible for ourselves and know what it says and what it means. That way, when someone has a question for us, we know how to point them to the answer. And not our answer, but God’s answer. 

Posted in Christian Service, Church Unity, Eternity, Evangelism, Faith, Forgiveness, Grace, Life Inspiration

Heaven is not a Pot Luck Dinner

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Heaven is not a Pot Luck Dinner

What the Bible Doesn’t Say

Be careful what you say to me, it may just be the topic of tomorrows post. I don’t say that viciously, it’s just that when someone get’s the wheels in my mind turning, I usually 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.  

Posted in Bible Journaling, Church attendance, Church Unity, Evangelism

How to find News that speaks Truth

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on How to find News that speaks Truth

This morning I sat at our kitchen table, frustrated with myself that for over an hour I had fallen into a cyber hole and had a terrible time digging my way out. Part of it was searching for the current news on Israel that was the truth. It’s more difficult than one would imagine in this left leaning world. Another portion of time was spent on absolute stupidity. Which I’m not against when I want to wind down from a long day, but I was trying to wind up for the start of this glorious Sunday morning. I just want to focus on God’s word, get a grasp on the reality of todays headlines and keep keep myself sane in this insane world. 

One of the lead stories this morning was that the building that housed the Associated Press’ Gaza City bureau was destroyed by Israeli military forces on Saturday, prompting questions about why the media organization allegedly rented office space in the same building where Israeli officials said Hamas terrorists operated. Terrorists organizations are said to use press agencies as a shield assuming they will not be attacked . But conservative radio host Erick Erickson commented, “Will someone ask the @AP if they were paying rent to a designated terrorist organization or were they accepting a gift from a designated terrorist organization?”

Steve Guest, an adviser to Senator Ted Cruz, (R – Texas) asked the question “Are we just going to ignore the fact AP and Al Jazeera worked in the same building as Hamas terrorists?” Those are good questions; because in a world where the truth is getting to be less important than liberal feelings, and scripture is often used out of context and manipulated to fit agendas, our information sources that can be trusted are few and far between. 

Paul wrote to warn Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:1-11 KJV

[1] This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. [2] For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, [3] Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, [4] Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; [5] Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. [6] For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, [7] Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. 

What better way to “creep into houses” than through the guise of the news, social media or popular movies, shows and sports. You cannot watch any of those things without succumbing to the liberal rhetoric of people who believe they have the “right” to mislead people into their mindset for their own good. And while I love listening to conservative news I’m not so naive, or one of those “silly women” led away with different lusts… although I could be. It’s why scripture often refers to us as sheep. If we can’t hear the Shepherd, we’ll just follow anyone. Especially those 

[8] Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. [9] But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was. 

These were not Jews, who rose up and opposed Moses, as Dathan and Abiram did, as some have thought; but Egyptian magicians, the chief of those that Pharaoh sent for, when Moses and Aaron came before him, and wrought miracles; and who did in like manner by their enchantments, (Exodus 7:11).

That word “enchantment” keeps coming into things I read and it dings a bell in my head every time. It means witchcraft, sorcery and feelings of great pleasure and delight. Sounds like our current new climate. How else could people watch a building being torched in the background of a new report and believe it when the reporter says its a “peaceful protest.” And I am to believe that the Associated Press wasn’t influenced by Hamas and others in their building when I hear news reports about the “poor Palestinians.” In the words of our senile President, “come on man.” 

So what are we to do today as children of God who simply want the truth? Pray and seek wise reporting and counsel. For me that comes comes from Blaze Media and Online News such s FGGAM.org, but there are no doubt other outlets as well. But first and foremost, above all, read the word of God. Today’s current news is there too as well as how to live in this crazy world. Paul continues telling Timothy in 2 Timothy 3: 

[10] But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, [11] Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.

Paul has preached the gospel of Christ. He ministered to churches who faced what we’re facing and possibly worse. (Although our current state of affairs is pretty pathetic.) But Paul told them that come what may, cling to the word of God. That’s why it’s important to stay in it. And it’s why I have to fight hard to dig my way out of a cyber pit. Lord deliver us… please.

Pray for Israel.