Category: Evangelism

Posted in Eternity, Evangelism, Faith, Family, Heaven, Life Inspiration, salvation, Word of God

End Times will come

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on End Times will come

The Israeli Air Force bombed Hamas’s underground tunnel network late Thursday night in the northern Gaza Strip in what military officials said was one of the most aggressive aerial assaults’ in recent years. Rockets continued to pound Israel as the Israel military pummeled Gaza in one of the largest bombardments of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad since the fighting started. In a 40-minute long air campaign which began around midnight, some 160 aircraft dropped over 450 missiles on 150 targets belonging to a network of tunnels dug by the terror group known as “the Metro” under Gaza city. This, according to the Jerusalem Post. 

Matthew 24:4-6 KJVS

[4] And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. [5] For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. [6] And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.

It’s hard not to be troubled when news such as this is on the internet, television and radio continually. Anytime Israel’s name is in the news to this magnitude, many begin to think and ponder the possibility of end times; religious leaders use the information for fodder to stir souls and then there are those of us who know just enough to be dangerous from multiple sermons over multiple decades when wars, and rumors of wars have existed. There have also been multiple explanations given over multiple texts in the scriptures that point to coming of Christ. And I will not profess to be an expert on the subject, but I can say this as a matter of fact: It’s closer today than ever before. Nobody with a belief in Christ Jesus will say any different. But in this current era, what should our reaction be and our main concern in these current times?

The Return of Christ in the Air

1 Thessalonians 4:14-18 KJVS

[14] For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. [15] For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. [16] For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: [17] Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. [18] Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

Those words do indeed bring great comfort to my heart, because I’m on the wonderful receiving end of the rapture as a child of God. Rapture defined is “caught up.” But what about the lost, those who have never accepted Christ as Savior, during this time? For them the world is about to go into a tailspin and the many worldly explanations for the disappearance of the saved will abound. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that we are currently seeing reports of UFO investigations by the Pentagon and other national agencies.

The Pentagon’s inspector general is looking into the actions the military has taken to address the spate of UFO sightings in recent years involving high performance aircraft that have violated military airspace.

The probe comes as Congress awaits a public report, due next month, from a host of national security agencies on the issue, and as advocates complain that some departments and agencies are not fully cooperating by sharing data. (Source: Politico)

What was once considered fiction involving a tractor and too much corn liquor in a field in Iowa is now being discussed by congress. Satan is no doubt pleased with all this attention to alien forces and will gladly jump the band wagon to promote it as the reason children and beloved family members disappear off the face of the earth without reasoning. But there is a reason. It’s been preached from the days of Christ and has never been more evident to those who understand scripture than now. We see it. Most are like myself and do not profess to be a scholar on the matter, but that’s not necessary to understand the logistics of what’s taking place in the world. Christ will return for His church, and chaos will no doubt ensue. The Holy Spirit will remove Himself and His people from off the earth and life will drastically change across the planet. It will be Israel’s turn to once again be God’s main focus. There is no doubt in my mind why there currently is a rise on anti-semitism. Satan has always hated the Jews. He knows that God’s plan for them is mighty and involves his eventual demise.

I have always been taught that Matthew 24 is the current time we’re living in. And there is no doubt similarities, but the question of context is “who is Christ speaking to in the gospel of Matthew?” He’s speaking to the nation of Israel. It will be the Apostle Paul who brings the gospel to the Gentiles and those who in this era accept Christ as Lord and Savior:

Romans 15:15-17 KJVS

[15] Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God, [16] That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost. [17] I have therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ in those things which pertain to God.

It is through the divine revelations of God given to Paul that he presents to us what will come through the rapture and end times for us. But when this era is done, and Christ has returned for His church, then will Matthew 24 come into play as well as the anti-Christ and the damnation of this earth. For certain, nobody should desire to be here to experience it. 

I believe that I am here for such a time as this, to help present the gospel in layman’s terms as best I can. I want to see my people saved. I want to see your people saved! 

Today we not only need to pray for Israel but for our family and friends who don’t know Christ. Because as horrific as it is across the seas in Israel, it will be far, far worse for all the earth, including the United States of America in those last days.

Posted in Evangelism, Fear, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Word of God

Getting a Handle on Frustration

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Getting a Handle on Frustration

The level of frustration I have felt lately has been extreme. Liberal viewpoints abound, Corona numbers have soared in my county in recent weeks – a inciting fear, and the political accountability from a national and local level is is nil. I truly have just two desires that I struggle to keep in focus: to build strong people in the two houses of my life – my home and the church. But it seems every day there is a new frustration that comes along, preoccupying my mind and delaying the building of the house. I feel it’s my fault. I allow the distractions to come in and once they’re there I allow them to play house in my home. But they play for keeps. They’re doing everything they can to thwart my ministry efforts. I can feel it. Which frustrates me all the more.  

As soon as my eyes opened this morning a message popped up on my phone from an African friend. “Pray for Israel.” I had heard bits and pieces on the news yesterday and knew there was unrest between Israel and the Palestinians.

Gal Gadot, an Israeli actress best known for portraying “Wonder Woman”, issued a statement calling for peace and pro-Palestinians critics melted down in response calling her an ugly Zionist. Seriously… every time I hear these people I want to give them a bottle and pacifier and put them to bed. They too are much of the frustration in my life. I don’t mind a differing opinion, I do mind a liberal, venom spewing attitudes that have no concern for how anyone in the world feels except the one in the mirror. And running a close second for my frustrator award is the uninformed liberal who defends them. Oh dear gussy, why did I go here this morning? 🤷🏻‍♀️

But I did go here because it’s effecting how I share Jesus. 

It was a liberal rant that fueled the fire for my post on being an “unapologetic child of God.” I’ll be making me that shirt (literally) this weekend if God allows. It’s my way of fighting back against an enemy that is weakening my resolve to the point of reconsidering parts of my ministry. That is an unhealthy place to be. 

Frustration by Hire

In an Old Testament story Israel is facing frustration that scripture says was hired against them. I have no doubt that there are hired liberal activists for the purpose of frustrating the conservative side.  It’s true. When the Devil finds a plan that works, he doesn’t stop using it. He just finds new victims. So this morning as Israel troops are preparing for literal war on the border, I’m fighting a spiritual war in my life and using the word of God encourage my soul on both fronts.

Frustration by Hindering

Ezra 4:4-6 KJVS

[4] Then the people of the land weakened the hands of the people of Judah, and troubled them in building, 

Perhaps by threatening them, or by dissuading the workmen from going on, by endeavouring to hinder their getting materials from the Tyrians and Zidonians, or money out of the king’s revenues to bear the expenses. I have to wonder if they raised the price of plywood? That’s what happened here! Again, Satan has no new weapons, just new victims. He finds out where there is a demand and stops the supply, whether that is for physical or spiritual material. So the question is, when we’re lacking what we need, and our bodies grow weak, how do we regain our strength to fight back?

We either need to find a new source or a new method, but above all, don’t stop working!

The book of Ezra spans many years; this wasn’t just a few days of frustration. I usually start complaining to the Lord about 20 minutes into a struggle. For certain I need to gain tenacity to withstand these attacks on my ministry. I’m not in need of plywood for building a church, I’m in need of patience and understanding, and a little extra wisdom would be wonderful to help me build the Kingdom of God. Often times my frustration comes from knowing just enough to be dangerous about the world we live in. I know many things about the agenda of leftists and their organizations. I do not know “who” exactly is involved with those organizations. So by only having subject matter and not names, I lose leverage in the debate with naysayers of the conservatives. 

Israel had been away from Jerusalem for a long time. They’d been “out of church” for a long time. There relationship with God was being restored but it wasn’t strong enough to fight the enemy. I know I’m a broken record, but its the problem with the church. Our relationship with the Lord needs it’s subscription renewed!

Frustration by Halting

[5] And hired counsellors against them, to frustrate their purpose, all the days of Cyrus king of Persia, even until the reign of Darius king of Persia. [6] And in the reign of Ahasuerus, in the beginning of his reign, wrote they unto him an accusation against the inhabitants of Judah and Jerusalem.

Their tactics continued until verse 24 of this chapter says “Then ceased the work of the house of God which is at Jerusalem. So it ceased unto the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia.” 

So for two years the work on the house of God was halted.

There is a great danger in halting a labor of the Lord for any amount of time. We do not know who may have come to be saved during our absence from the ministry work. So many people step in and out of the work of the Lord as if it’s an optional service of little importance. In my frustration this week, when I was debating if this was a time for me to step away from some of the work that I have been called to do, I began to think about what that would mean. I know I’m not all that and a bag of chips, but I know I encourage some in everything that I do. So what would happen if I’m not there? Who would go un-encouraged and what effect would it have on their life? I don’t want to be guilty of that. 

What about you? Are you on the verge of halting your work? Please don’t. There are souls in danger and we may just be their only hope of hearing the gospel of Christ and His saving grace. 

Posted in Eternity, Evangelism, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration

Know ye not?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Know ye not?

Gas shortages, Covid spikes, cyber attacks on the pipeline, it’s just another day in America. But these are certainly trying times. However… I taught my a lesson on Sunday morning using my previous post. “Unapologetic child of God.” ` And I’ve since pondered it again. It was great class, with great response from the kids. But a response that struck me was that when I mentioned the sexual sins in the temple. The kids were a tad shocked that I mentioned it. But I wanted them to understand that immorality is not just an issue off today. 

But the more I thought on this, the more I became like the children in my class and was more than a little shocked at the level of depravity of the people. And then I thought about the Old Testament behavior of Sodom and Gomorrah. Wow. We have been a wicked generation of people from the beginning. You’re probably not shocked with that information, but still yet, does it not boggle the mind sometimes? Why is it that we have become so accepting of sin, even in the church.

The men in Corinth are visiting prostitutes and they want the rest of the church to accept it. To which Paul asks them in 1 Corinthians 6:15 KJV “Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid.”

Know ye not? That seems like a no brainer to me, but Paul had to ask it. So it took me into a study of the other “know ye nots” of chapter 6.

Know ye not that we shall judge angels?

The members of the church fo Corinth were destroying there testimonies with a multitude of sins. One such sin was that of suing each other. Which is why he asked them in verses 2-3 of Chapter 6

1 Corinthians 6:2-3 KJVS

[2] Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? [3] Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?

How lightly do church people take church squabbles, gossip and backbiting? I don’t suppose it to be an error when I say that it’s likely more of a plague than the corona virus. Rather than making brothers and sisters a matter of prayer, we make them a matter of gossip or ridicule. Ask me how I know. Go ahead. Ask. … Because I’ve been guilty of it. And its a sin that’s just looked over and ignored. And yet…. we expect God to make us judges over the world and angels? Ummmm. I’m thinking not everyone will be task with that. 

I was extremely hurt by another child of God (not anyone in my church) last week. I’ve really struggled with forgiving them because it’s not me they were mean to, it was someone in my family. And when I say they were mean… I mean “mean😡.” And in a very public way. No… not social media. But in a meeting. As a person in high authority of a church, they did major damage to their testimony for Christ by spewing venomous speech. Yes it was that bad. I’m sure to them it was justified in their mind. But would it be justified in Heaven? And would much of my speech?  As I said, we take our behavior very lightly with regard to sin.

Know ye not that sinners are watching? 

Paul asks another question: 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 KJV

[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, [10] Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. [11] And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

The Corinthians poor behavior and lack of concern for one another has Paul asking them, “Do you remember who you were?” Whew! That’s a question that should have anyone of us dropping to our knees for forgiveness and gratitude to the Savior. And what is the reaction of the lost in the world who see the present day lack of concern for sinful behavior? I’ve heard it said on more than one occasion by a lost, non church attending person, “Why should I go to church when there is no difference in their behavior and mine?” Now we know that many of the lost are looking for an excuse, but it’s the truth none the less. We know that we are all sinners saved by the grace of God, there is none perfect, save Jesus! But there is a difference between being a repentant sinner and a blatant one that either denies their behavior or ignores it and either way it could be causing someone to have no desire to know God.

While we are free to behave anyway we want, Paul defines that behavior as this:

1 Corinthians 6:12 KJVS

[12] All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.

I question my own self today when I ask, “What am I under the power of that may cause a lost person to stay lost?” 

Know ye not that Christ is in you?

1 Corinthians 6:15-17 KJVS

[15] Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. [16] What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. [17] But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.

I read once that there are three reasons people justify sexual sin:

  1. It’s LEGAL
  2. It’s NATURAL
  3. It’s PERSONAL

I’m pretty sure that’s how most people in the church view any sin. If it’s okay with the world, it’s okay with God. And yet it’s the furthest thing from the truth. We’re not on this world’s morality scale. What the world thinks doesn’t mean one thing to God. But what God thinks better mean something to us.

I may finish up my Sunday School lesson tonight in the Teen Bible Study class, and I’ll be using my thoughts from today to finish it up. I want my kids to understand early on that the world’s opinions are messed up! Are we as perverted and immoral as the church of Corinth? Well, that depends on whose standards you’re looking at. We all better be praising God that we stand accountable for ourselves and not the actions of other people. But then again, I believe there will be a level of accountability for our role in the church we attend and what our leaderships view on sin was. 

Accountability is not something the world has a grasp of when it comes to God. It’s only through reading and studying the scripture that you understand there are costs and rewards to our life on earth. And for certain the rewards far outweighs any earthly costs. But what about Heavenly costs? When we stand before God and answer for our life down here, and He places us in our Heavenly positions based upon how we served, and what we stood for? Hmmm. That’s a good thought for me today. Father… help me Lord to serve you better, love you better, understand you better. Amen.

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Life Inspiration, Word of God

Unapologetically a Child of God

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Unapologetically a Child of God

So you think me a fool. That’s okay. It seems that I’m in good company. 

That was my thought a few days ago when someone belabored my opinion and reaction of false religion. I bit my tongue, not wanting to create a scene and take away from the spiritual lesson I had hoped to achieve. For a second I questioned myself, which I think is good. It keeps you humble to understand that you yourself are not above mistakes. But like the Apostle Paul, I prayed my debater would tolerate what they considered my foolishness til I could further explain my reason of passion on the matter of false religion. 

It wasn’t until the following day, when I held back tears in a store in town as I seen the evidence  and damage of false religion in my own community. It made me nauseous, it made me angry, and if they’d have ask my opinion I’d have gladly told them, but they did not. I did not horn in on a conversation that I was not invited into, but rather once again bit my tongue. But I will not do that with those who have been laid to my charge to teach. I will encourage their zealousness for Christ, and gently correct their apathy toward false religion. And so began this brief study, 

Bear with Me

The Apostle Paul speaks to the Corinthians when he says in 2 Corinthians 11:1-4 KJV:

[1] Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me. [2] For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.

It is not in arrogance of wisdom that I get angry when someone defends the behavior of false religion. As I said previously, I have no great wisdom and education to boast of. Though I have some.  But what I do have is the Spirit of God that causes me to understand Paul’s “godly jealousy.” I am not a jealous person by nature. I have always believed if I was not enough for someone, be it in a relationship or a friendship, then that person was free to move on, because in Christ I’m enough. It is because of His great love for me and ultimate sacrifice of His life for mine that I can defend the Christian faith and call out those who attempt to lead Christians astray, especially those young in the faith. I take my role as a teacher very serious. It is an absolute shame many who teach Sunday School or other church classes treat it with a lackadaisical attitude. As if what we do is somehow unimportant in the grand scope of life. I mean… “it’s just Sunday School.” Right?

Well, let me tell you a tale of “just Sunday School.” Prior to my salvation I was placed in the position of teaching youth Sunday School classes without ever the question, “are you saved.” I didn’t even know what salvation was. I had no concept of the Bible or the importance of the role I played in the eternal state of my students. So now, you’ll forgive me if I’m a tad jealous and zealous over the role I understand as life altering and the fact that I know I am a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ on earth. Sunday School is serious business.

Fear with Me

 [3] But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

Salvation is so simple. And yet… the depth of what happens to a soul that is saved is beyond what you could possibly understand when you say the words “I believe.” Satan loves to make it difficult. It’s why he’s so effective with false religion. And lest I be misunderstood about what I believe false religion is, I believe that false religion is anything or anyone that teaches salvation in anything or anyone other than the blood of Jesus Christ. Christ alone saves. “Not by works lest any man should boast” the scripture says. So tell me thou man of religion, what can you do to be saved? First of all, don’t be a man of religion, be a man of relationship.

What brought me to tears in town this week was a man that I stood behind in line at the pharmacy. I had been brought up in the same church he attended, I knew him and his wife and I loved them. Sweet, sweet people. My thought was “there will be lots of sweet people in Hell because someone dared not to offend them with the gospel.” There are fewer and fewer churches sharing the need of having a burden for the lost. Few churches preach conviction of sin and the power of the cross. I speak from the experience of having been in many churches across the nation, both physically and virtually. Are their churches my business? No. But when their churches have a profound effect on people I care about, that is my business. 

Paul said he feared, lest by any means Satan would beguile (to charm or enchant) people as he did Eve. That’s a good description of what’s happening in many churches. They’re charming people with music and programs that attract people but do nothing to edify the soul with preaching and encourage believers to live right. The church of Corinth had issues, not the least of which were claims of spiritual superiority over one another, suing one another in public courts, abusing the communal meal, and sexual misbehavior. It was a community of wealth but Paul says in verse 8 of this chapter that he had “robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service.” He was referring to the fact that many poor churches were supporting his mission work so that he could preach and try to correct the errors of the wealthy churches like that in Corinth. Paul called them out, he did not walk on by. He had too much invested in the people he cared about. And so do I. 

I have felt fearful for many years that we, who were once known as a godly nation, would be the recipient of world missionaries coming to present the gospel to the godless nation of America.  I could seriously see it happening now. Our current government is anti everything conservative, so where does all this fit in with false religion. It makes our people ripe for the picking because the nation is such a state of despair. There is no trust in the government, local or national. People are searching for a place to find hope, which would have once been the church, but now because of Corona, many churches are not open, or have limited services and outreach ministries have gone by the wayside for “virtual” meetings. Non- relationship meetings. Oh…. even writing it my stomach turns over. How can we be the hands and feet of Jesus from a phone or computer screen? We were created to be a relational people. 

According to the Washington Post, even though suicide rates have fallen globally, they have climbed every year in the United States since 1999, increasing 35 percent in the past two decades. Another fear that I have is that these rates will continue to rise because hope is quarantined and not able to come out and play. But you better believe Satan and his minions have immunity and readily available to deceive people from where they are. 

For many children Satan’s location of choice is in the public school system which has our children’s minds at their disposal from 8-3, and the parents are too busy and too tired from 4 to 9 to deal with them, so they’re left exposed to the internet on their own until the wee hours of the morning. In 2014 there were 4200 religions listed in the world; if Paul was “fearful” over what was happening in Corinth, imagine what fear he would have today at what his people are exposed to. Parents and children alike search the web for hope and for help and there is any number of organizations out there waiting for a way into their lives, and Satan will use them to manipulate them right into Hell. 

Don’t Bear with Them

[4] For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.

Paul was in fear that the people of Corinth would “listen too long.” Someone once said that if you say something long enough and loud enough the people will eventually believe it. I could add to that, if you start it early enough it will be a seed sown deep into the heart of a child. That’s why it’s so important to Satan to get his hooves in the door of a school house, and believe me, he has that door propped open wide. 

While science was always his preferred route of invasion, calling Creationism into question; Satan has now used false religions to infiltrate the minds of youth by promoting that all beliefs are acceptable, but Christianity is too narrow minded and prejudiced to be considered. Unless of course it’s the Catholic religion, which is perfectly fine because Catholics are not encouraged to read their own bible, but rather have it read to them through their agents of God, the priest, who is their method of communication to God. It was this religion by a teacher who my grandson commented to in school. Unfortunately he knew just enough to be dangerous. But he spoke truth none the less. And it was likely my fuel that fired him up. For which I’ll not apologize. 

Paul made no bones about the fact that he didn’t want the people of Corinth giving ear to people who preached another Jesus. Do the Catholics preach another Jesus? They preach that Jesus’ sacrifice alone wasn’t enough. They preach that the veil that was torn asunder on the day of the cross meant nothing for the “average man,” but only certain men could speak to God. They preach that a man has the power to forgive our sins. None of which is true, and is damnable doctrine.

So…. while I’ll not go on a hunt to try to correct people of Catholic religion, or any of the other 4200+ religions, if they come hunting for my people, or if their influence is felt in my community, I’ll not sit silent. Nor will I worry about offending them.  I have family and friends who have been influenced by the false teaching of this world, or a more common issue, they’ve been influenced by churches who do not consider it their job to preach the gospel of conversion. If there is not change in the life of a person professing Christ, if sin doesn’t convict their soul, I dare say they’re not a child of God. But it is unfortunately not the teaching of many churches. I’m not judging. It is truly between them and the Almighty God for Whom I serve. 

I am unapologetically a child of God, I am not about what’s over the door of a church. I am about what is within the pages of the Bible and that alone. But I am still, unapologetically Baptist, because it is the doctrine for which I agree with. What I teach the youth in my department is this. Know Christ. Know why you believe in Him. And when people call your faith into question, let it be unquestionable what you believe in because you and Jesus are that tight.

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith, Life Inspiration, salvation, Word of God

Enemies of the Cross

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Enemies of the Cross

I am a woman of great compassion. I can be treated in the worst of ways and still pray for a person. Don’t nominate me for sainthood yet, I can also pray God kill them. Just saying. But for the most part, I pray that God save their souls and they become friends in the faith. I speak often and lay the blame at the feet of wonderful parents who raised us with kind hearted beliefs and in Christian faith. It is why I have honestly struggled throughout my life with the inability to have righteous anger and holy hostility. But I eventually got there. And the while the world tells me I must accept them, it’s simply not true; because under no circumstance will they accept me and would have me destroyed if it were within their scope of ability. And you as well, if you are a child of God. So here we are, stuck between the Rock and a hard place. The Rock, Jesus Christ Himself said:  “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;” ~ Matthew 5:44 KJV

So what’s a girl to do. Hey, I told you I “prayed”… that God kill them. But all kidding aside. There is a non-contradictory plan in place for God’s children and the enemies of the cross. Apostle Paul dealt with it in Philippians 3:18-21:

[18] (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19] Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) [20] For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: [21] Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

Paul said that he was telling them as he was weeping. Obviously even the great apostle Paul had compassion on them, even though before, when he was known as Paul, he showed no mercy as he killed Christians of the day. That’s what the heart of Christ will do to a person. It strengthens the power of your own mercy and grace toward others. Or at least it should. But back to the enemy.

The god of the Cyclops

That was the belly Paul referred to. Those people sacrificed to themselves indulging their own desires, making themselves voluptuous people and having more regard for that, rather than the service of God. 

Tell me you can’t see that in our nation today. Food is such a massive part of our lives. People in third world countries couldn’t even possibly comprehend the waste of American food, not to mention the indulgence of American foods. Put me in the category of guilty. But at what point does the food become a god? I personally believe it can go in both directions of health. While our bodies are the temple of God and there is certainly an expectation by God to care for it (which I’m lousy at) I’ve also seen those who care a tad too much for their bodies. When it becomes far less about health and more about vanity. This will likely not ever be a problem for me. If I had my “perfect life of fitness,” it would be everything within moderation.

But how is this the enemy of the cross of Christ?

Anytime indulgences come between us and the Lord, it’s an enemy of the cross. The world is targeting us and bombarding us with media posts that draw our minds into vanity, or lusts of the heart and away from the good and wholesome things that God intended us to have. It’s apparent I’m not a health nut, but that doesn’t stop me from seeing my own failures in life. I have indulged in unhealthy foods that have taken my insulin level to a diabetic state. My health right now is not good, or is ability to do all the things I want to do for the Lord. This is a serious enemy of the cross, and I’ve allowed it to happen. 

The gods of the Corinthians

From John Gill’s Commentary: Paul spoke of those whose glory was in their shame, in their evil practices committed in secret, of which it was a shame to speak; in their hidden things of dishonesty, crafty walking, and deceitful handling of the word of God, which were vile and scandalous, 2 Corinthians 4:2; in corrupting the Gospel, and the churches of Christ, with their false doctrine; in observing and urging the ceremonies of the law, which were dead, and ought to be buried; and particularly circumcision in the flesh, in that part of the body which causes shame, and in this was their glory, Galatians 6:13. 

Anyone spouting false doctrine and taking away from the very sacrifice that Christ made so that all men might be saved is an enemy of the cross and of the greatest offense. Churches who put any works into the mix of salvation, organizations (such as lodges) who claim to have a high authority in the Kingdom and do “things in secret” which Christ never did, are enemies of the cross. I have never been real out spoken about the lodges and secret orders in our community, unless of course I was ask. But I will stand flat footed and eye to eye with anyone involved in them and say I fully believe they are of the devil. And if their honest, they’ll agree. 

I had this conversation with an uncle once who informed me that the Bible laid perfectly even and honored on a table with the Quran and other religious books. What?! Was my response. My Bible lays even with no book. It is above all because it’s the word of God. That did it for me and the Masonic lodge, it was an enemy of the cross. There are no “secret orders of Christians.” Salvation is open to all. Wow… Not sure how I got there, but it’s truth none the less. 

The god of Opinion

John Gill Commentary: (who mind earthly things.) the Arabic version renders it, “who entertain earthly opinions”; and some by, “earthly things” understand the ceremonies of the law, called the elements and rudiments of the world, which these false teachers were fond of.

Everyone has an opinion, but mans opinion has nothing to do with the word of God. As a matter of fact mans opinion can quickly become an enemy of the cross. When I said that I struggled with the inability to have righteous rage and holy hostility, it was true. Because I, like my kind hearted parents, would not offend people, even if we disagreed. My parents would tell you if you ask, but only then and never boldly. Maybe they never had cause. It was a different world when I grew up. But now… oh my stars… is this world bold and in your face and wrong! There are countless false doctrines being taught by churches, and then there are churches who teach absolutely nothing! But rather they have taken the blood and sacrifice out of the scripture and made it less likely to hurt anyone’s little feelings or make them feel bad about sin.

So I got bold.  And now I speak out, because I have friends and family who are going to bust Hell wide open because they’re listening to man’s opinion and not the gospel of Christ as told by the Apostle Paul, loud and proud and unashamed. I’ll will not argue doctrine, I will simply repeat what God says and if you have a problem with it, take it up with Him. I’m not trying to be holy, I’m trying to keep the people I love out of hell

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith, Life Inspiration

The “Blinky” Milk Face of Religion

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Trying to find volunteers for church positions is often like asking someone to volunteer to drink the milk to see if it’s spoiled (or blinky as we called it as children). I’ve often times been given the same face. I’m not blowing my own horn, just stating a fact, that for 20 years I have taught youth classes. It’s honestly been one of my greatest joys. And I can certainly hear folks say “Well Shari, I just don’t enjoy it, it’s a lot of additional work in my life.” Yep. Sure is. But let’s talk the future of the Kingdom of God. 

The Lacking of Faith

Paul ask the Thessalonians in Chapter 3:9-10 of 1 Thessalonians

[9] For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; [10] Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?

To Shari quote it “How can I thank God for the opportunity to serve you, see you and help you grow in the Lord?” 

Does it sound like he was more than a little excited?! I totally get it. No greater time do I have than when I’m in the teen department listening to them ask and answer questions about scripture, all the while giggling over something totally silly. I also get when 20 minutes before I leave, I’m exhausted from a day at work for which my brain says, “Stay home Shari, you need rest.” I get that it’s additional work on top of already hectic lives or that you’ve already done your tour of duty. (Remember 20 years) Oh… but the joy! 

The pure joy in knowing that you’ve helped a child to grow in his or her faith. That you’ve allowed them to see the joy of the Lord. Not the “blinky milk face of religion.” Those who see no need to volunteer in the church are part of the cause of a lack of faith in the church. Those who think Sunday School and Wednesday Night Bible Study aren’t necessary are those who cause a lack of faith in their own lives. Every time I study, whether it be for myself, my ministry or the classes I teach, I learn something new. I learn something that helps me be a better person, and boy o boy does this world need better people!

If you are struggling with life, for what ever reason, I can almost guarantee you aren’t getting enough gospel. I haven’t been feeling the best lately and it wasn’t until this morning, when I knew it was about time to get my prescriptions filled, that I realized I had missed 6 morning doses of my medicines this month (which are many pills). Yea, that probably has something to do with me not feeling well. But the same holds true if you’re not fueling your spirit with the word of God and the fellowship of the saints. It causes a lack of faith when you need it the most.

A Lack of Love

Paul prayed that God would lead them to His people: 

 [11] Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you. [12] And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: [13] To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.

He did so because of his great love for the children of God and his concern for their souls. It begs the question: “How concerned are you for your people.” God has placed people in our lives, in our path, to edify our souls, that we may be “Unblameable before God.” Because of a lack of love, and a lack of faith, there’s going to be plenty of blame to go around. 

Last night I had 6 teens in my class. I was grateful for those six souls!!! But I couldn’t help feeling great sorrow for the teens who never experience church in the way those six did last night. In just one short hour I watched human relationships grow in the Lord, and grow into adulthood. 

Several months ago the teens painted a slogan on the wall of their class room that says “You gotta Grow up!” It’s from 1 Corinthians 13:11

[11] When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

In so many ways the kids in my class are more spiritually mature than many adults. And yet… they giggle like children because they are. They also make me giggle. Oh the joy! 

The teens don’t always get along. They have days when they get on each other’s nerves, much like the adults. They’re not all on the same level spiritually. Some have barely stepped into the water of faith. It’s often easy for the churched kids to be “shocked” that an unchurched kid doesn’t know the basic spiritual truths. I wish they’d known me at 34 years of age. I knew nothing! But it’s always a good lesson to remind them that it’s okay not to know so long as you’re willing to learn. They also need to know it’s the responsibility of those of us who do know to shine the light into the lives of those who don’t. And to never, never, ever, give someone the blinky milk face because they don’t understand the word of God. 

Posted in Eternity, Evangelism, Faith, Life Inspiration

How to Repair Your Life

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Are you, or someone you know searching for answers in these troubled times for which we live? It’s not by happenstance that you’ve landed in this domain today. I’m for certain not going to tell you that I can solve all of your problems, I don’t even know what your problems are! I’m not going to tell you that I have a miracle quick fix that will allow you to avoid any consequences of bad decisions you’ve made. I’ve been there, done that, and have my own “I survived stupidity” tee shirt. That’s not why you’re here. You’re here because God uses folks like me to encourage you, give you hope, and if you’ve never met Jesus Christ, I’m here to shine a light on the greatest decision I ever made. 

Jesus Christ sets the Standards

No matter if you’re on the right or left, I think we’d all agree that the worlds standards are messed up. But the fact of the matter is, this world, nor anyone in it, is in charge of “the standard.” That was set by the Creator who, as Jesus Christ, was there at the creation of this planet and all things around it, and even knew you, before you were created. (Jeremiah 1:5) Isn’t that amazing! That thought always encourages my souls.

Jeremiah 1:5 KJVS

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

Now back to the issue of standards:

Romans 3:23-31 says: 

[23] For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; [24] Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: [25] Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 

A few key points from that text for those who might not be familiar with scripture. Every single one of humankind has sinned. If you say you haven’t, you just lied, so welcome to the club, you’re a sinner. We come short of the “glory of God,” because unlike us, He has never sinned. He is perfect in every single way. Never a bad thought or deed, and that my friend is the standard. 

As children we know that sin and rebellious behavior must be punished, else we’ll never understand it’s wrong. But what punishment would be just for the sins of this wicked world and its total disrespect and depravation? By the standards of God there is only one, death. As a loving God, all He has ever wanted in return was love, obedience, and respect for Him and what He created. We’ve failed. Therefore we deserve punishment. 

But our Loving God took even that upon Himself when Christ paid that price once and for all on the cross by giving His life. That was the “propitiation” mentioned in the verse. Propitiation means it pleased God, to allow His Son to pay our debt. He did that because nothing else was pure enough, and that was God’s standard.

Jesus Christ set the Strategy

[26] To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. [27] Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. 

Once the standard was set, and the price was paid, there needed be a plan put in place for the children of God to live on in this world until we get to the perfection of Heaven, where we’ll be with God. That strategy is to live in faith, not by works. But it’s our nature to try and fix things ourselves. I don’t know about you, but that is usually when I get in the biggest trouble! 

If we could possibly save ourselves, or live without God, we would. And in our arrogance we’d take full credit for it. And most of mankind right now is doing exactly that. They’re living without God, they’re boasting about what all they’ve done, but when this life ends… and it will… where will they stand before a just and Holy God? They won’t be standing, they’ll be flat on there face begging for mercy that will never come, because they rejected God. They’ll be forever separated from all the people they thought they impressed. They’ll forever be in the darkness and fires of Hell. 

That strategy doesn’t seem so hard now does it? Just believe and trust that regardless of whatever happens in your life, Jesus is there with you. He may not pull you out, but He’ll walk through, because as His child, He has a vested interest in you. He died for you. 

Jesus Christ Set the Stones

[28] Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. [29] Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: [30] Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. [31] Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.

I always think it funny that man took 10 commandments and made a million laws. Mankind always makes life more complex than it needs to be. It’s those complexities that leave the average joe or Jane falling short of what we to be. For most of us all we want is to be happy and carefree. But with sin in our life, with the struggles of day to day living and getting along with a crazy world, neither of those things are possible.

When I got saved, (accepted what Christ did on the cross as payment for my sin and trusted Him for the provisions of my life) I still had the same problems, but I wasn’t alone in trying to solve them. I still failed God and sinned, but I had immediate forgiveness through Christ. When I laid my head down at night I had peace that if I died in my sleep, my life would go on in the presence of God in a perfect world. Those Ten Commandments that were written in Stone, were now inscribed, “Repaired when Broken.” It’s inevitable that I’ll fail God, but through my faith, that law is established as “never having been broken at all.” Glory to God, does that make me happy today! 

Friend, if you’re struggling in life, Give it to Jesus. He’s fully prepared to take care of it.

Posted in Bible Journaling, Evangelism, Heaven, Leadership, Life Inspiration

A Profitable Truth

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I’m not so sure what the world believes anymore. There would have been a time that I would have said “most people are God fearing people.” They had enough reverence for Him to at least respect the authority of out sovereign God. But now… I sit in disbelief as I watch people live their lives, clueless to their eternal destination and that it could possibly be entered into today. Perhaps even before this sentence is completed some will find out if they believed as they should. 

I have such confidence in God and His eternal plans that I know I am with Him in Spirit now. That excites me! While I cannot see Him physically, I feel His presence and I know that to be absent from the body is to be with Him, therefore my saved friends and and family who have died, are literally with Him. So God is my go between, between my Dad and many others. They cannot answer me, but I can ask God to tell my Dad and Doyle Ballengee, hello. It is in those conversations that I either sound completely mad to the lost, or give great hope and peace to my own soul and others who know Jesus.

The Apostle Paul understood my weirdness. He too was very weird to the world. Especially the religious world he came out of. Even though, they were the ones who originally had conversations with God all the time. They were the “oracles of God.” Privy to His wisdom like no others. But when the Messiah came on the scene they refuted every thing He did, including the miracles, choosing rather to call Him a heretic than the God of the Universe. 

Uncompromising Truth

Romans 3:1-12 KJVS

[1] What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? [2] Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God. [3] For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? [4] God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.

Paul was one of the greatest of the Jews, no doubt headed for power and a Jew of great understanding and wisdom. The same wisdom He applied to Christianity when He met Christ. He wanted to see his people saved, and the rest of the world as well. He taught and preached without compromise on the truth, because God doesn’t compromise.

Paul understood, and everyone else should that judgement is coming. Whether or not people believe that God is the Creator of all and the Righteous Judge of the earth doesn’t change the fact that He is. Nor does it change the fact that we will one day stand before Him and answer for what we’ve done in these bodies for Him. How have you shined the light to this dark world? That’s our job. Regardless of what our career path is, our job is to tell the world about Jesus and what He willingly did for them. Will you be justified when you stand before Him and He asks, “How did your life glorify Me?” It’s an uncompromising truth and its. And 

Unavoidable Truth

 [5] But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man) [6] God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world? [7] For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner? [8] And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just. [9] What then? are we better than they ? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; [10] As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: 

While the arrogance of the world goes on with their day, as if there is not even a possibility that God will return today, the unavoidable truth is “you are a sinner.” I am a sinner. Everyone born of the flesh is a sinner in need of a Savior. While Paul’s writing sometimes reads as a riddle to me, the truth of it reads all too clear. I needed saving. Praise God I was!  Just as today, people in Paul’s day were slanderously reporting… Hummmm, they must have been the ancestors of CNN and the rest of todays modern media tribes! I’m going out on a limb here to say that they are one of the greatest causes of people turning from Christ, second only to the depravity within the soul of every man. But they speak to that depravity. It’s a me first society and that’s the message they want the world to hear. That mindset causes people to ignore the truth of the gospel and believe a lie because the lie makes them feel better about themselves rather than facing the fact that they’re a sinner needing a Savior. 

Unprofitable Truth

[11] There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. [12] They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

While the world strives for their next dollar, their next title,  the next material thing that allows them to one up the Jones, they do not understand how very unprofitable they are. While we are expected to “live” while we are here, that life is not to be the focus. This is the journey and the audition for our next life. This morning was the first time I thought of it in that context. I’m auditioning for the role of an eternal lifetime through my actions down here. If I am living only for this world, it will be entirely unprofitable. But if I “lay up my treasures in Heaven where moth and rust do not corrupt,” glory to God I will have a position in the Kingdom to be proud of because it came from glorifying God here. 

Paul was no doubt slated for a high earthly title. But he walked away from it, forsook the law for grace, signed his own death sentence because he knew that was the path God had chosen for him. It was a hard, profitable truth. This world is unprofitable. It’s heading to the burn barrels. You may or may not be familiar with that term. Long ago and far way, before Waste Management trucks drove through the neighborhoods of West Virginia picking up the garbage, there were burn barrels. My parents had one behind their house and that was how we disposed of the garbage. You burned what would burn and you buried what wouldn’t. Well… this world will be destroyed one day. It is for certain an unprofitable ball of dirt. And the souls on it who do not profess Christ as Lord will be among the rubbish, but the fire will never go out. It’s the truth, whether or not you confess it. And so is Heaven, which should be your obvious choice. 

A profitable truth is this. You have the choice of Heaven or Hell. Which is it? Let me know, I’d love to hear from you.

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Church attendance, Evangelism, Faith, Life Inspiration, Praise, Uncategorized

What About the New Glory Days?

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What is your fondest memory in church.

George Barna, the sociologist of religion, notes that most people form their religious identities by the time they are thirteen years old. For many people true worship is what they experienced as children. For me that was in the 1970’s. I remember the revivals and the packed churches and the weirdness of a lively church because the Sunday church was dead. I praise God that He gave me a second chance to see revival through Victory Baptist Church. God help our churches in America and may we never be one like that. 

I got the idea for todays lesson from a preacher who went to a Lutheran Church in the 1960’s where the attendance was 3,000 or better. He said they had to arrive at church at least 20 minutes early to get a seat, they sat up folding chairs in the aisles. Many of the people look back on those times as the glory days. But a visiting Pastor said that he was there in the 60’s and said that those folks looked back on the glory days of the 1950’s. We’re always looking back. 

And that’s where our text is at today. 

Don’t Look Back

Isaiah 43:18-25 KJVS

[18] Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. [19] Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

Nostalgia, for which I and any other person my age is usually guilty of isn’t helpful and it’s not true to the Bible. It oftentimes makes us unhappy. As Christians we need to remember God’s work in the past, but never lose sight of what He’s doing now. Because it’s every bit as wonderful. 

Right now we seem to be in a terribly dry dessert. What will be your memories of church during this period of your life? 

What’s something amazing that you’ve seen Him do during the past year?

For me it’s the longing in my soul for spiritual things. That sounds bad, but it’s what drives me and for that I’m grateful. We’re most often not thirsty until we’re dry. And then we really want a drink and when we get it it’s amazing. Perry Noble’s church, which just expanded their building, had 14 saved last Sunday. In the midst of this dry time they’re growing because thirsty people are showing up. And that can happen anywhere, but we’ve got to offer the drink, because some people are clueless that church is where it’s at. 

Don’t Be Silent

[20] The beast of the field shall honour me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen. [21] This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth my praise. [22] But thou hast not called upon me, O Jacob; but thou hast been weary of me, O Israel. 

Somebody or something will praise God. But when the people of God are silent, it makes us weary. I don’t want to be guilty of that. God has provided water to drink in these dry times. But where do we find it, and how do we share it?

Have you ever felt dry and thirsty spiritually. Be honest. Why or why not. Why do you think the thirst isn’t in many churches today for wanting to feel the Spirit move in their congregations. 

Don’t be Inactive or Ungrateful

[23] Thou hast not brought me the small cattle of thy burnt offerings; neither hast thou honoured me with thy sacrifices. I have not caused thee to serve with an offering, nor wearied thee with incense. [24] Thou hast bought me no sweet cane with money, neither hast thou filled me with the fat of thy sacrifices: but thou hast made me to serve with thy sins, thou hast wearied me with thine iniquities.

Usually when people talk about the “good ol’ days it’s about the sacrifices people made to have the churches that we have today. They gave of their time, and their money and they would have never considered laying out of church. They had too much invested in it to turn their back on God. But now that the church building is built, we’ve stopped building the body of Christ. That is a sign of ingratitude. We’re failing to remember that were it not for someone else’s work, we’d not have what we do. So what are we going to leave the next generation. 

Don’t be Afraid of the Future

 [25] I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.

Jesus reminds us to live each day knowing that God loves us and forgives us for all our failures. The Bible’s not filled with perfect people (save One) and that was Jesus. It’s filled with people who failed God, but stayed faithful.

Are you prepared to stay faithful to the church. 

God’s prophet Isaiah spoke to a people demoralized and in exile in Babylon. They had suffered much—the towns and farms of Judah were destroyed, Jerusalem was in ruins and the Temple, God’s House destroyed. The land promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, was now in the hands of others who did not know the Lord God. God had brought the people out of slavery in Egypt into the land of milk and honey but now they were exiled from that Promised Land. It seemed as if God had abandoned them. But the words of the prophet went out: DO NOT REMEMBER THE FORMER THINGS, OR CONSIDER THE THINGS OF OLD. I AM ABOUT TO DO A NEW THING, NOW IT SPRINGS FORTH, DO YOU NOT PERCEIVE IT? God’s mercy and salvation were not only past actions, but present and future—and what is coming, the Lord says to the people of Israel —and us—is greater even than God’s work in the past.

Just like it still is. God’s word still brings us hope! It’s okay to remember the past, but don’t discount the future. We need to focus on how God sustains us even when the times are dry just like He did Israel when they fled Egypt and for forty years, God provided for them. Suffering almost always results in a closer relationship with God. And by the same token, good times seem to cause us to stray. 

When the temple was destroyed the people had to gather together in small groups, in congregations, to study and learn God’s Word. All that was left to them was the Scripture. The people gathered around Torah, God’s instruction and learned in a more personal way of God’s loving intention for them. The suffering of the people resulted in a closer relationship with God and a renewal in their trust and dependence upon God.

We remember what God has done for us as well. Our Christian faith is based upon God’s faithfulness in the past which we remember and also make personal. We look back to the Old Testament—and Isaiah’s prophecy came to pass—the people marched back through the desert home to Jerusalem. And after almost two thousand years in exile from AD 70 to 1948, the Jewish people have found a home again in the land of Israel. What God promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob 1900 years before Jesus is still God’s promise 2000 years after. For us as Christians we look to Jesus, the Messiah of Israel and Savior of the whole world. In Jesus, God Himself paid the penalty for our sins. In Jesus, God came into the world to be one of us; nothing human is foreign to this God. In Jesus, God is with us now and will be forever. God will never leaves us or forsake us.

So what are we going to focus on now?

What do you want to see accomplished in our church. I personally want to see the Sunday School classes grow because if this grows, so will the worship hour.

What would you like to see happen in the church?

Isaiah 43:1-2 KJVS says 

[1] But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. [2] When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

That’s a promise to Israel, but to us as well. 

God going to bring us through. But as He does, we don’t want to make Him weary. 

Posted in Bible Journaling, Easter, Evangelism, Faith, Life Inspiration

The World’s Warped View of Christianity

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Last night was communion at Victory Baptist Church and it’s been a long time since we gathered together for that purpose because of the Corona. My heart was tender to the Lord, a fact I’m grateful for. It had not been the case this week. I had allowed the world to come between me and God to the point I was feeling worthless and ashamed. Not a good spiritual condition to be in the week of Easter or any day. But such was the case and I needed my heart stirred. The Pastor’s text for the evening was 1 Corinthians 10:21-23 KJV

Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils. Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he? All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.

Those verses immediately resonated with my spirit. I felt like I had been dining at the Devil’s table all week. I hadn’t read the Bible like I should, I hadn’t prayed like I should and going into the time of year that we celebrate the very reason we are who we are, I was lower than a snail’s belly. Praise God by the time the wafer and communion cups were passed out I had asked God’s forgiveness and felt as though fresh oil had been poured upon me.  God is so good.

The scripture still drew my thoughts back to the week I had endured and the world we live in. It’s so warped. To most people Easter is just a holiday, not a holy-day. So long as it’s the celebration of Easter bunnies and baby chicks all cute and cuddly nobody has a problem with it, but mention the truth that Christians pause this time of year to celebrate our risen Savior and the world has a problem with us. Delve into the depravity of man that created the need for Jesus to be crucified, and the world gets its little feelings hurt because they’re offended. And not only the world, the church (collectively) has chimed right in with that reasoning. They’ve removed the blood songs from the hymnals and excluded any sermon topics that aren’t politically correct for fear offending the power of the left, and the powers of the right are as week as day old dishwater. How did we get here? How did I get where I was the beginning of this week and stay there throughout! It’s ridiculous. 

“Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy?” as Paul asked. I have no doubt. It’s why I began scribbling the communion glasses on my iPad as the preacher preached last night. One represents the world, the other the purity of the Lord. The worlds glass is dark and tainted with the opinions of man not the doctrine of Christ. I listen to this young man on Instagram for entertainment that I perhaps shouldn’t. But he intrigues me. His name is Christian Walker, and he is the son of retired professional football player Hershel Walker. He is epitome of the world, and has made a name for himself as an out spoken Republican conservative and is praised for his boldness, and the shedding of the typical stuff shirt that the right is usually viewed as. I’ll give him that. He’s definitely not your typical conservative. He’s flaming gay and broadcasts it loud and clear without apology as he professes his Christian faith. 

Ummm, doesn’t that go against what the word of God says in Romans 1:25-27 ~ 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. 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: 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.

It sure does! And yet I watch him and enjoy his rants and ravings against the leftest agenda as he ignores his own sin because it’s his lusts, and somehow his sin is okay. That’s warped. But that’s the world we live in and it’s created an unholiness in the church that’s going to make God puke. 

Revelation 3:15-16 KJVS

[15] I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. [16] So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

So what does all that have to do with Easter and Communion? How much value do we place on what Christ did for us? How many times do we compromise in our own beliefs to cater to the world around us, or to our own lusts, pretending they’re the “small sins.”

By the end of the service last night my mind had drifted to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, who stood at the foot of the cross that her Son hung on having been beaten beyond recognition, spit on, stripped naked and mocked. I could feel her heart breaking, I could feel the tears sting my own eyes as I tried to imagine that as my child, but couldn’t. It would be too much to bare. I imagined her screaming, “This is my Son! He did nothing but love us!” And with that the shame of my own lack of reverence for the Lord and the things of the Lord stung me. Thank God for grace.  

The world may take this day lightly, the day before our Lord arose from the grave. But imagine being there, having witnessed the horrendous events of the days before, and then seeing the tomb empty, feeling your heart burn within you as the men on the road to Emmaus. (Luke 24:32) Meeting the risen Lord face to face, being with Him, speaking with Him, seeing Him ascend back to Heaven where He awaits our arrival. Glory to God how can we be so lacks when it comes to the Holiness of God?

Following His crucifixion Peter went back to fishing, the other Apostles hid for fear of being the next to be killed, until He arose. And then the gospel was back with a vengeance against Satan’s plot to destroy the Lord. 

Well, the vengeance is on us now. Satan has turned the world against us, but we still have the same reasons to rejoice and loudly proclaim Christ arose! But first we must stop cheapening the price He paid by allowing the world to convince us this day is about bunnies. Nothing against bunnies, but our children need to know that it’s about Jesus!

I was one proud Noni this week when my grandson Logan wanted his hat for the Easter Bonnet Parade at his public school to be about the “real meaning” of Easter. I’m proud of His boldness! God…. let me be so bold in my world