Category: Evangelism

Posted in Evangelism, Family, Life Inspiration, salvation, testimony, Word of God

The Certainty of Salvation

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Certainty of Salvation

I haven’t always had it. And Satan tries his very best to make me question it, but I know that I know, and that’s a great place to be in life. Apostle Paul told the Romans in Romans 8:38-39, 

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, [39] Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The Persuaders

Paul knew too! And for the much the same reasons as myself and many others who are saved; there was a drastic change. And drastic is not used purely for dramatic effect, its reality. From the top of my head to the bottom of my feet I was changed, with the greatest of all changes happening in my heart. 

It was a topic in the teen class last night about the evidence of salvation in someone’s life. When I brought up the fact that even a preacher could be lost, they were a little taken aback. Most of the preachers they know are strong, outspoken men of God that confirm their salvation by their actions. But not all. It was one such preacher that could be cruel and unkind and with that I ask them the question, “What if he’s lost?” What? They couldn’t comprehend that. He preached the gospel how could he be lost? I assured them I wasn’t saying he was, we are not the judges of a man’s salvation. But I recalled the video (which I know is not biblically correct) from the Left Behind series many years ago. Whether or not it was biblical, it had a lasting effect on my burden for those in the end times. It depicted well those who will be “left behind” at the rapture and their heartbreak. One of those left was a preacher who stood alone in his congregation having preached what he didn’t believe. Gut—- wrenching. “How could a man preach and not believe,” the teens wondered.

Anger Persuades Me

The same way I grew up in a family of believers, but didn’t. Religion is a vicious deceiver. So when I came out of it, I was changed and I was angry. I was angry at those who dare not preach that there should be a change, who stopped preaching on Sunday, and dared not to offend their congregation with the truth of the gospel, that it cost Jesus His life. Who treated their position as Pastor in a church as a job, not a calling. 

Prior to salvation I didn’t really know that type of righteous anger. I could get angry, but my nature is not one of having a temper. I’ve always believed that life is too short to stay angry. But righteous anger hasn’t left me in 25 years.  

The Spirit Persuades Me

The presence of the Spirit on and in my life has been amazing. Conversations with Him have been ongoing since 1996. To the world I’m just a chick from West Virginia, but to the Creator of the universe I’m a friend, and that is no small thing. We were discussing favoritism as well in teen class last night and they ask who was my favorite of them. I answered the same way I answer my children and grandchildren, how can you have a favorite when each is so unique. I love them all differently!  They of course thought they were my favorite. Which I love, I pray they always feel that way, because that’s how I feel with God. After all He takes time to speak to me when there are billions of people in the world. Surely I must be His favorite. And so are you.

The Word of God Persuades Me

Just like my conversations with God through the Spirit, He speaks to me through His word. Over the course of 58 years I’ve read a lot. But nothing compares to the word of God. I’ve had books that entertained and stirred my soul, but none compare to the living, breathing words within the Holy Book. The way it opens the eyes of my heart to knowledge that without God’s intervention, wouldn’t come from “just words.” I’ve written this blog since 2010. Thousands and thousands of words and thoughts that the Spirit of God would speak through me and always to me. I’ve been the recipient of words from others, usually preachers, who have preached a message that caused me to wonder if God had told them every secret in my life. Their messages would be so on point to what I was dealing with and never shared that it couldn’t have happened any other way. I’d leave the sanctuary and want to ask, “Exactly what did God fill you in on?” The word of God is powerful! Scripture says that it is a two edged sword, cutting in both directions, in and out.  

Death Persuades Me

Though I have not been stoned like the Apostle Paul, I have faced death when I confronted mortality through open heart surgery. Although I was not done with my life and the people I love, I was ready to meet God. I was tired. I still have days when I think “Just take me home God…” But then I think of my unfinished work on the earth and I know it’s not my time. Paul said in Philippians 1:21 KJV – “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” I fully understand that. Moving to a place where there is no sorrow is certainly gain! I miss my Dad, my heart breaks when I see the longing for him in my Mother’s eyes. I don’t want to lose another friend to cancer, I’m tired of the evil of politics, but I know there is work to do and I will not pass front this earth until God says mine is done. 

I used to fear death. I had no peace in my life and I struggled with it every day. I kid you not. Every day. That is another change, one of the many, many changes in my life. It’s what drives me to tell people about God and to share my testimony with them because I have the feeling many others struggle with it as well. But for the saved… 1 Corinthians 15:55 KJV – O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

There are other persuaders, but I’ll leave those for another day. Are you persuaded? Do you have that assurance in your heart that if Jesus would call the church home today you’d be among them? If not, take action. Call someone, speak to a friend or a preacher that you’ve seen live life differently than the world. Someone who has persuaded you that there is more to God than the world would have you believe. 

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Grace, Life Inspiration

I’m a Gracist, Not a Racist

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on I’m a Gracist, Not a Racist

The title isn’t a Jesus Chick original thought, it came from the folks of Duck Dynasty who interviewed hamburger man Kenny Moore on their podcast, Unsashamed. Kenny, who owns the Highway 55 Restaurant chain, said at one point in that interview, “I’m a Gracist, not a Racist.” And I thought….. “Oooooo that’s good, I’m so going to adopt that mindset! I am so sick of this racist chatter. If you born white in America you’re automatically labeled a racist. Which is such a racist comment. It’s just one of the many ways our country has gone mad! But Mr. Moore had a wonderful thought for any child of God; if you’re living life the way it should be lived, which is by the example that Jesus lived with and scripture teaches, other than the culture of the country for which people live, color doesn’t enter the conversation.

When I met my friend Juma from Tanzania, his color didn’t surprise me. He’s a black African. It in no way made the conversation awkward. We weren’t talking about color, we were talking about Jesus. The God Who made every color. The idea that anyone would think that one race is above another is ludicrous. God loves all that He creates. Does He have plans for certain races? Oh yes! The Jewish race has been apart of the Master’s plan since the beginning of time.  It doesn’t mean He loves them more, it only means that their plan was the first in place on this earth. And by the way… a part of that plan was that God allowed them to become slaves in the very first book of the Bible when Joseph was sold into slavery to the Egyptians. But the world is not trying to rectify that slavery are they? We’ve not apologized to the nation of Israel. 

Grace is first found in scripture in Genesis 6:8 when it says 

Genesis 6:8 KJVS

But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.

But what about all the others? The earth was full of people. Of those it says:

Genesis 6:7 KJVS

And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.

A Dangerous Game

He considered killing them all… but verse 8. Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. He was the only exception to the rule. God always reserves some, in the worst of times for Himself. There is a remnant according to the election of grace. The elect, those who God chooses. The Creator of all, and the only one who has the right to put anyone above anyone else. Man doesn’t have that power, but they assume it because they want to be God. Anytime we put another person above or below someone else, we’re playing God. And that’s a dangerous game. 

We are of that remnant. Which is why Joe Lancaster preached a sermon 10 or so years ago titled “There’s a few of us left.” There’s a few of us who truly care about the things that God cares about. The rest of the world in Noah’s day had stopped caring about the things of God. But Noah was grateful and acceptable to Him. He pleased Him in his service and sacrifices. He was made fun of by men, but he kept serving God even though he had never seen rain, but God said it was on it’s way, and so Noah for 120 years was faithful and it allowed his family to be saved.  But for those who did not care about the things God cared about, they perished.

That’s what’s going to happen in this world that we’re living in now. We are the Noah of the day. But this time God has allowed anyone to get on the ark who believes in the sacrifice His Son made. One rule. That’s it.  And for those of us who have been saved, thinking about the devastation of the flood and the loss of life should make us extremely grateful for grace, and cause us to be Gracist, even to the racist. 

Playing for Keeps

The second place grace is mentioned in the Bible is in the story of Lot.

Genesis 19:19 KJVS

[19] Behold now, thy servant hath found grace in thy sight, and thou hast magnified thy mercy, which thou hast shewed unto me in saving my life; and I cannot escape to the mountain, lest some evil take me, and I die:

Lot, his wife and children were allowed to escape because of the grace of God, certainly not because of his righteous behavior. He had moved his family into a city of the vilest behaviors. Pretty much like we’re living in today. Abraham pled their case with the Lord, trying to save the city in Genesis 18 asking, when the Lord said He was going to destroy Sodom and Gommorah,  

Genesis 18:23-24 KJVS

[23] And Abraham drew near, and said, Wilt thou also destroy the righteous with the wicked? [24] Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city: wilt thou also destroy and not spare the place for the fifty righteous that are therein?

He made it all the way to requesting mercy if there would be ten righteous found in the city, but not even those few could be found. So the city, save Lot and his family, were destroyed

For me Lot exemplifies the average American. He may not have participated in the sin of the day but he certainly didn’t depart from it or take a stand. And just like He did in the days of Noah, God destroyed who He said He would destroy, because God is playing for keeps. He will defend who He says, and He will destroy who He says, and those of us under grace, should be be shouting it to the roof tops for others to hear.

The third place we find grace mentioned in the scripture is in the story of Jacob and Esau. The twin sons of Isaac, the grandsons of Abraham. 

Winning the Game

 Genesis 32:3-5 KJVS

[3] And Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau his brother unto the land of Seir, the country of Edom. [4] And he commanded them, saying, Thus shall ye speak unto my lord Esau; Thy servant Jacob saith thus, I have sojourned with Laban, and stayed there until now: [5] And I have oxen, and asses, flocks, and menservants, and womenservants: and I have sent to tell my lord, that I may find grace in thy sight.

Jacob needed the grace of Esau because his deceitfulness had ruined their relationship and drove him away from home. But now he wanted to come home and it would require mercy from his brother, mercy he was willing to pay for. The kind of mercy that man expects is not God’s kind of mercy. Jacob figured it would cost him something. And that’s what the world thinks now, that there’s no way something as good as Heaven could be without cost to us. But it is. And in knowing that we should offer it to everyone in our lives. Regardless of their skin color, what family they’re from, what country they’re from or anything else that makes us different. Because in the eyes of God, we are simply, His created. And when we look at the world that’s what we should see, whether or not they are different in color, or belief. We all need Grace. 

Jacob originally thought that he needed to win the coveted birthright, so he convinced a hungry Esau to trade it for a bowl of soup. But what he altered realized was that all that really mattered was whether or not he was in the will of God, and had peace in his home. We’re not going to have peace in this home, but we are headed to one of the sweetest of peace. And while we’re on the journey we need to bring as many people with us as we can. Be a Gracist, not a racist that’s what wins the game. 

Posted in Bible Journaling, Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Word of God, worship

The First Cancel Culture Target

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The First Cancel Culture Target

It’s Saturday morning, and I’m off to a slow start. I was sick much of the day yesterday, (just a belly bug) nothing major, but I slept most, if not all of yesterday evening, right into this morning and then stayed in bed until 6 a.m. Oh my stars! Half the day is gone. That is really how I feel when I sleep until 6 a.m. Morning is my best “thinking” time. But here we are at 6:55 and I have a few thoughts on my mind about getting to know Jesus better. He knows me inside and out. Every hair on my head and what hair products I use. He knows that I’ve struggled with ADD-oss) Attention Deficit Disorder Oooooo Something shiny! That’s a real thing, but the only prescription for it is more online shopping. It doesn’t cure it, it just pre-occupies you to the point of not noticing what someone else has that you might need. Jesus also knows that I have a real problem staying tuned into Him when I’m so focused on me. 

So this morning I decided that I would think, and ponder what it is that made Jesus the first ever “cancel culture” target.  Cancel culture wasn’t a phrase back then, but it was certainly a social norm in the Pharisee and Sadducee circle. They wouldn’t even consider the possibility that He was who He said He was. Why? Why have such a closed mind in what was written in Bible prophecy?

Micah 5:2 KJVS

[2] But thou, Beth-lehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.

They knew  it. They had God’s word as proof, and yet they still wanted to cancel Him.

They Wanted to Cancel Dinner

Bethlehem signifies “the house of bread”, and a proper place for Christ to be born in, who is the bread of life; 

John 6:35 KJVS

[35] And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.

Ponder that for a second as a child of God. This morning I had lemon cake for breakfast. Not the breakfast of champions but it was tasty. And while that filled the hunger in my belly from no supper last night, it’s not the hunger that Christ refers to. That “ooooo something shiny” nature in me that I continually fight, was truthful filled the day that Christ came into my heart. I’m just a slow learner and weak vessel when it comes to pretty stuff. But when it comes to “needing” things in life. Christ fulfilled my every desire spiritually. I love being a child fo God. And I love having His Spirit within me that causes me to love like He loved. Even people that the flesh would like to slap in the mouth. But Jesus causes me to see them as God does. Which helps me better understand the Pharisees and Sadducees that the world had gotten a hold of. They weren’t Spirit lead leaders, they were self lead and worldly minded leaders. Just like we have today. They wanted no part of a Jesus who could provide for the people, both physically and spiritually. They likely knew that would cut into their treasuries. So they in effect tried to cancel supper for everyone! 

They wanted to Cancel Livelihood

Bethlehem was a place of pasture which we know from the shepherds watching their flocks by night in Luke 2:8

I don’t think it was happenstance that the angels came to the shepherds, the lowest of the low in the economic side of life in that day. In the times of scripture being written they were so little trusted that a shepherd’s testimony would not be accepted in a courtroom. Most shepherds were considered on a par with Gypsies, vagrants, and con men. Add to that the fact that shepherds were on the lowest rung of the economic ladder and had little or no formal education. Why would the Bible scholars of the day have even considered them as worthy testimonies of the birth of Christ? Their testimony was canceled before it every made it’s way to the church. So now there’s two strikes against this man called Jesus. He’s born in the lowliest of towns, and testified of by the lowliest of people. 

For me that helps me to identify with the Lord and love Him all the more! Coming from small town West Virginia, being a gal of common work and being used in the Kingdom of God makes me weep with gratitude. God is sooooooooo good to me. Bring on the cancel culture! They didn’t cancel Jesus and they didn’t cancel the lowliest of shepherds, they only made their story that much greater. Please Jesus, let it be so in my ministry as well. Allow the words that You put in my soul to encourage many across they land. This lowly shepherd girl who loves caring for God’s sheep in Calhoun County, West Virginia. 

The world today would love to cancel our ability to take care of ourselves and cause us to rely on the government for our very livelihood. Be not deceived, the corona virus shut down had more to do with the disease of power than the flu.

They Wanted to Cancel God’s Word

Bethlehem Ephratah”, which was a small city, in the midst of the cities of Judah; and “although thou art little in the thousands of Judah, out of thee shall come forth unto me” a man, a ruler in Israel, “whose goings forth are from the days of old”; the meaning is, the goings forth of the family of that ruler are from the days of old; that is, from the seed of David, and a rod from the stem of Jesse, who was of Bethlehem Judah.

While on the surface they appeared to “worship God,” that was furthest from the truth. They had all the tools of the trade and the very of God written down in their hands, they didn’t believe or live it, and I have to wonder if they didn’t more so fear what they did read and know. After all, they were told that God would return one day and reign over His people. I think they’d have rather been their own boss, and that’s how they lived. Satan had convinced them that God’s word needed to be canceled and it would be done by canceling His Son.  But what Satan didn’t know was that the attempted cancellation only gave way to the un-canceling! 

Woohoo and glory to God in the highest! Does that put a shout in my soul!!! They couldn’t cancel the Creator. And as much as society tries today they cannot cancel the Spirit of God that is alive and well in His people. It is no small wonder that Jesus was the first and greatest cancel culture target and still continues to be. The power from His Spirit and His Word that is working through His people certainly has to be frustration to the cancel culture’s ego. They may have won small battles in the realm of Christianity but they have by no means won the war and we are proof! All of the “little people,” in the “little towns” who have the Risen Savior empowering them to continue sharing the word of God keeps us moving toward Heaven. And when we can no longer move in that direction it will be because we have arrived. Just wrote myself happy again!!!!

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Life Inspiration

Children of the Day

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Children of the Day

It was a Facebook story that drew me into this scripture this morning and a version of the Bible that I don’t know. I just knew it wasn’t the King James Version and it was frustrating me as I compared the two versions together. And then as God does, He drew me away from the world and into a spiritual mindset, one that was concerned about souls… not bible versions. That’s not to excuse the changing of the word of God to fit man’s agenda. And God knows my heart. It’s simply to say, right now now there are more important things to worry about Shari. 

Like the fact that like Paul, I don’t have to tell you that these times and seasons we are in are preparing us for eternity. If you have read the Bible, you know. But what I have to keep telling myself is “stay focused.” Paul writes as much to the Thessalonians in chapter 1:

1 Thessalonians 5:1-28 KJVS

[1] But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. [2] For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. [3] For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. [4] But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. [5] Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. [6] Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. [7] For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. 

Does anyone else find it odd that Paul compares the Lord to a thief? I do. Paul is not referring to the character of the thief but to the manner in which he comes: unawares, suddenly, when there is no thought of it occurring. You know… kind of like now for most of the world. While I can get so wrapped up in things of this world that I pay no mind to what’s going on outside the walls of my house, God is faithful to bring my mind back into the matters I need . to be aware of.  Like daylight, not darkness.

[8] But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. [9] For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, [10] Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.

Last night I gave myself a manicure, and then realized my fingers looked like an advertisement for the weather app on my phone 📱. But I needed ☀️ sunshine in my life. Even if just on my fingertips. The cold and dreary weather of February always does a number on my psyche. Add to it the mud of living in the hills of West Virginia, and it’s a recipe for depression. But this morning my nails seem to be a fitting reminder that I am a child of the day, not the night! 

Paul reminded the Thessalonians that they were saved with purpose. God had pulled their souls out of a destination of wrath and awarded them salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ, which they could rest in day or night, life or death. God had spared them, and now spares us as we go into these final days whether they end today or a century from now. Though I’m inclined to believe it’s going to be sooner than later.  

As children of the day there should be an openness of our relationship with Christ. We should be talking Jesus at every opportunity. Paul continues on to say:

 [11] Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. [12] And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; [13] And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves. [14] Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. [15] See that none render evil for evil unto any man ; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. 

Quite a while ago I spoke to someone in our area about being in church, to which they replied, I’m a member of “this” church. To which I replied, “Oh, so and so is the Pastor there.” I could tell by the look on their face they were clueless as to who that was. That set me aback. How could you profess to be a part of a body of believers and not even know who the Pastor of that church was? I highly doubt anyone in Paul’s day had that problem. Just saying you were a part of a church might get your head on the chopping block.  You had to know who was laboring among you, because anyone else might kill you. That’s not the case in America, at least not yet. We need to know who it is that actually does the work in our church, and encourage them! 

Churches have been in such a strange place for the past year. Some open, some not, no visitation, no choir, no fellowships. We need to get the church doors open  and return to being children of the day, we need to let our little lights shine! 

The remainder of Chapter 1, Paul gives a charge to the church that this epistle be read to the members. They needed a reminder to live holy, boldly and encouraging within the body of Christ. The world will beat around on us and stir up mud and strife, but among each other our light should shine and warm the hearts of our friends. Praying for one another, loving on each other, till Jesus comes. It’s hard to do that when the church isn’t meeting.

[16] Rejoice evermore. [17] Pray without ceasing. [18] In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. [19] Quench not the Spirit. [20] Despise not prophesyings. [21] Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. [22] Abstain from all appearance of evil. [23] And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. [24] Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. [25] Brethren, pray for us. [26] Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. [27] I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren. [28] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.

I pray these words encouraged you as they did me today. God’s word is timeless. But actual time is fleeting. Tell someone about the saving power of our Lord today!

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Life Inspiration, salvation, Uncategorized

Don’t Run Over People with the Salvation Bus

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Don’t Run Over People with the Salvation Bus

Once upon a time, on a public school playground, there was a little boy who considered himself a man of God in a little boy body. He’d watched the preacher at church, and watched his dad witness to people, and had concluded that it was a simple job. Ask people if they know Jesus. If they say yes, say “glory!” If they so no, say, “then you’re goin’ to Hell.”  And so went the conversation between he and his friends, who didn’t appreciate his brief synopsis of the plan of salvation. 

That was an ever so slightly embellished story of my nephew at 5 years old because I can’t remember all the facts from 25 years ago. And it’s the story that came to my mind as I read Proverbs 18 this morning.

Proverbs 18:19-21 KJVS

[19] A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle. [20] A man’s belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. [21] Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

The difference between a five year old soul winner and an adult soul winner is the style of delivery of the message. Well sometimes. I have seen a few preachers deliver it much the same as my nephew. And while that sometimes works, more often than not the result is a mad, offended sinner and a soul still “goin’ to Hell.” The wisdom of Solomon knew it, and the church should, but passion sometimes drives the salvation vehicle right over the person we’re trying to get saved. 

Today’s blog is directed to anyone with family and friends who need saved and your frustration that I totally feel. But together lets use the wisdom of Solomon to create a strategy for welcoming them into the family of God.

One of my favorite quotes from my friend Doyle Ballengee was “If you ruffle the fur on the cat, just turn it around.” That cracks me up! Cats much prefer being petted and groomed in the direction their fur lays. Going against the natural man is much the same. Ruffling their fur will not cause them to succumb to your chatter. But speaking words of soothing comfort will certainly ease the conversation. I’m not speaking of sugar coating the gospel. Not ever! The gospel stands as the inerrant word of God and can handle itself. But it’s not necessary to hit them over the head with the Bible, just present it in love. Why do we not see that in Christ’s own example? When He dealt with the Pharisees and the religious tribe that were trying to kill Him, He was was point blank bold and in fur ruffling mode. But He could have said applesauce and cinnamon and they’d have screamed heresy. They had their fur ruffled before He ever said the first word. But when He spoke to the unsaved, He spoke in answered questions and informed them with compassion. 

When Nicodemus came to Him in the night, likely for fear of being seen, Christ didn’t call him on his cowardliness, He called him on his lack of knowledge as a bible scholar, but not until after they spoke of salvation. 

Nicodemus Knew there was Power in Christ

John 3:1-21 KJVS

[1] There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: [2] The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 

The world should see that power in us. Not the power to perform miracles, but the power to live life in such a manner that people notice the difference, and they begin the conversation. “Hey, why are you always so happy?” “How do you go through the troubles you’ve going through with such a great attitude?” “How did you not come unglued when that guy yelled at you?” 

Nicodemus knew there was something different about Jesus. So he sought Him out and asked the questions he needed to ask. But whether or not they start the conversation with us, they should still see the difference, so that when we seek them, they know it’s because we care. 

Nicodemus didn’t know the Position of Christ

He said that he knew that Christ was a teacher that had “come from God.” He did not know that He was God! And that’s what we have to help the lost to understand, that there is power in being a child of God, but it’s not from the child but from God. A fact that we “with” the Spirit understand, but those “without” the Spirit are clueless as to how the Spirit works. So Christ informs Nicodemus with weighty emphasis (Verily, verily) on the what he had to understand to be saved.

[3] Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. [4] Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? [5] Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. [6] That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

The fact that Christ was God couldn’t be understood by the flesh. The Spirit reveals that knowledge to us. 

I can easily share my experience with discovering the Spirit. He had spoken to me for years, guided me from afar, but I did not know Him. And then I felt Him dealing with me more and more, “verily verily.” I knew it wasn’t Jiminy Cricket, this was different. This was a life altering moment, the moment I knew the man called Christ, was in the position of God. 

Nicodemus didn’t know the Person of Christ

 [7] Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. [8] The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. [9] Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? [10] Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? [11] Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.

Again Christ wants Nicodemus to understand that his religious-osity had failed him. Nicodemus was a religious leader; he understood religion but he didn’t understand this relationship that Christ had with His disciples. He goes on to tell him that He was not of this world. The Pharisees believed that they were going to be the hierarchy for God here on earth. God had washed His hands of them, they were ate up with corruption, arrogance and control. Jesus came in humility, servitude and sacrificial love. Religion doesn’t understand any of that. 

So what does this have to do with our soul winning? We have to examine our relationship with Christ, and know who He is in our lives to be able to share Him with others. We need to feel what He feels on the inside of us so that when we begin that conversation with our lost family and friends, we’re speaking it with the humility, servitude and sacrificial love of Christ. We have to get ourselves and our frustration completely out of the equation. That’s tough… believe me when I tell you, “I know.”

But that is the strategy I want in my life. I want my family saved…. now. But I have to allow it to happen in Christ’s timing and with His words and compassion. 

Love ya! Don’t run over anyone with the salvation bus 🚌 this month. Let’s get them into the Kingdom safely. 😀 

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism, Family, Fear, Forgiveness, Heaven, Life Inspiration, salvation

Who Can Stand?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Who Can Stand?

I have a constant gnawing at my heart that the church should be far busier than we are. This finger points at me first, because it is myself that I am accountable for. The same is true for us all. We’ll stand before God one day in answer for our lives… you know… the living part. How did we live for Him? As I read these verses in Revelation this morning my heart was pricked again, but so was my mind. I know I have a need to be careful about how I handle this word for which we’ve been given. Rightly dividing it; and to do that I must understand it, and the book of Revelation is not one that you just read and comprehend every jot and tittle of its composition. No… it’s a book of future prophecy, but the problem with that is, that future is getting closer, and there will be a day in the not too distant future that it will not be prophetic but reality.

Revelation 12:10-12 KJV

[10] And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. [11] And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. 

The Power of His Christ

Woah. The God who spoke the world into existence, is about to speak it out.  These verses are halfway through the book of Revelation so there’s still plenty of death and destruction to go before the end, but it’s heating up and even Satan knows his days are now numbers which even an elementary school child can count without issue. He has accused the brethren… that’s us! But no more. He’s about to lose his membership to the high brass of Heaven. He’ll no longer have access to the spiritual realm where God dwells and his full wrath will be taken out on earth. 

The thought came to my mind, “there are no board meetings in Heaven.” God doesn’t need anyone’s opinion; although man continually strives to make theirs known. And all the while we have been down here struggling, Satan has been in the presence of God pointing out our many failures… but no more by Revelation 12. God has kicked him out of His presence and those for which he had been accusing are now standing with God. They have overcame Satan by the power of the blood that had been applied to them through the death of Jesus Christ. Woo Glory that’ll preach! Can you imagine the power of “no guilt?” Satan accuses me daily of every failure that I have, and there are many. And that alone causes me such defeat.  But there will come a day when I will stand in the presence of the Almighty without guilt, for God will have wiped that memory away and kicked out the reminder. Yes, I did just write myself happy.

The Power of His Praise

[12a] Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. 

I would imagine that the decibel of praise would put the mortal man crazy or deaf as they rejoice in Heaven for what God has done to the Devil. That’s why mortal man can’t be there… well one of the many reasons 

But there is a portion of us in Heaven now!  

Ephesians 2:6-7 KJV says: 

[6] And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: [7] That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

One of these days we’ll see God face to face, but right now we feel Him heart to heart. For myself that means that I could, if I would, experience a greater presence of God in my life if I got closer to Him and would delve deeper into His word, rather than just skimming the surface as I so often do in trying to get a blog up, rather than build my relationships with God. Owch… that hurt. But it’s true. I have lately felt the Spirit of God welling up in my soul and bursting forth with an Amen, glory or Hallelujah. I love it… I had missed it. I feel His power in me right now to be greater than it’s been for a while. Not because I’m any better at life, but I want it more than I have for a while. I had gotten lacks in my service, partly because of the coronavirus and partly because I had allowed life to become discouraging by listening to the siren sounds of this world rather than the praises of God’s heavenly hosts. I forgot that a piece of me is there with them.

The Power of His Wrath

[12b] Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

The wrath of God (I believe) is considered by most people to be an Old Testament issue. The world today has not witnessed the wrath of God as the children of Israel did. We have not seen God open the ground and swallow up evil as He did Korah, his men and all their goods in Numbers 16. But there will be a day when the children of God are removed from this earth, that the whole earth will experience the wrath of God, and somehow in the midst of that the children of Israel will once again be under the spiritual protection of Almighty God and be unharmed. But all others will face not only the wrath of God, but the wrath of Satan. He knows his days are now numbered and he’s angry! And that anger will be vengeance on any one of God’s creations, especially mankind. It’s this thought that drives me now. While I look forward to the fact that I am protected by Almighty God from this day, any unsaved loved one is not. This will be a terror like nothing ever imagined in the nightmares of this world. 

Revelation 6:12-17 KJV describes it as thus:

[12] And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; [13] And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. [14] And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. [15] And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; [16] And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: [17] For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

Who shall stand? Nobody. 

If you’re reading this and you don’t know Christ as your personal Savior, if your family has not been saved, this is your future and worse. I don’t say that to be sadistic or fear mongering. I say that because I love you and I want no one, even those who hate me, to go to that place or be exposed to the wrath that is coming upon this earth. 

When is it coming? Maybe tomorrow… maybe 100 years or more. It’s not for me to say. Nor would I want to wager mine or my families life on it, because we know not the day,  but there will be a day. Please, I urge you today to make that decision. Here’s the link 🩸on how to be saved. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. My information is on this website, or you can contact me through Facebook. If you’re already saved, do me a favor, and share this post so that someone you love might read it and come to know Jesus.  Amen.

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith, Life Inspiration, Purpose

Distractions, threats and battles

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Distractions, threats and battles

And such is life.

Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to visit many churches, and from those visits I always leave with new friends. Then, by the means of social media I am able to stay connected to those that I grew to love in just a very short while. Apostle Paul did not have that privilege. And I do count social media as a wonderful privilege, even though it can also be used as a tool of the Devil. Satan always does his best to take what God receives glory for, and make it evil. And  he’s wildly good at it. But he will never be as good as God with connecting to people; because there is a definite difference between Spirit filled friendships and friendships formed by worldly means which is the biggest tool in Satan’s box of devices. It’s why it’s very dangerous to attract people to a church with worldly ideas. While a coffee bar is sweet! And I’m all about coffee and fellowship, but if they come for the coffee and don’t receive the truth of the gospel, you’re in Satan’s wheelhouse, not the Lord Jesus’. If you attract young people by loud music and lock-ins,  and at no point during that evening you calm it down and bring their minds into the comforting Spirit of Christ, you’ve missed the mark. But this isn’t a blog post about coffee bars and rock music, it’s about friendship. But just like a good church service, the Spirit of God, and the message of Christ has got to be the foundation of a sustainable friendship. 

I have friends in the world who don’t know Christ. And as much as I love them, I do not receive the same encouragement from them, who I may be with in person quite often,  as I receive from my friends in Christ, who I met once, but they continue to encourage my soul just by remembering them, or connecting online. 

Philippians 1:27-28 KJV

[27] Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; [28] And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.

 Paul wrote to the people of Philippi about his desire to visit, but whether he came in person or not he wanted their relationship to be founded in Christ and rock solid in the wisdom that no matter how many times and ways Satan came against them, they had the power of God through their salvation to withstand it!

Glory! I just wrote myself happy with that remark. Because while I receive encouragement from friends in Christ, the demons of Hell don’t let up. 

I got up this morning and asked God to please give me a message. And then I tuned into social media for a couple of hours…. yes, you read that right, and ignored God. Because that’s how fickle I am when something shiny, funny or inquisitive pops up on the screen. 

But when I finally settled in to some scripture, immediately my heart was pricked with the word of God and it seeped into my soul. Reminding me that, like Paul, I have friends that I need to encourage. 

Satan can come from any avenue he chooses. And the closer it is to the avenues that Jesus walks on, the better he likes it; because he knows all he has to do is get us distracted, scared or bothered and he has our mind ensnared and away from the thoughts of God.

Diva Distractions

I can be such a Diva! I keep telling you guys how shiny things capture my attention, but not just shiny, anything that floats my fleshly boat. A diva is defined as a temperamental woman who’s hard to please. I don’t really consider my self that until I think of myself in the Spirit realm. Remember the earlier comments about the worldly attracts that get people in church, well, worldly distractions keep me out of the word of God. And God will not compete with the world. He already won that battle on the cross. He’s not fighting it again. 

He wants His people to desire Him above all else. When “else” is in the picture, we’re distracted. Whew! Can I get an amen! How can I study the word of God when the world has my number on speed dial with bling and things? That’s why Paul told them to “Let their conversations be as it become the the gospel of Christ.” Turn the world off! 

Terrifying Threats

Another distraction that Satan loves to use is fear. If he can keep you cowering in fear from speaking boldly for Christ, he’s gotcha. Today’s current trend is to “cancel” anyone who speaks the truth. That’s scary. Especially if you use the social platform for the ministry. Because the very reason you’re there is the very reason that will get you canceled.

Speaking boldly won’t only get you canceled on social media, it will get you canceled by friends. Years and years ago, when I was first saved, a friend was having a party. It wasn’t evil, it was just a little tasteless. Someone who went told me later that when they ask my “friend” why I wasn’t there, she said, “I can’t invite her, she’s all churchy now.” Hmmm…. I was canceled before canceling was cool! I can assure you if you’re bold for Christ, you’re gonna get canceled. But count it an honor that you are too exclusive to be on their list. Only the best will dine with Jesus in Heaven.

While that is scary, it’s not terrifying. Terrifying threats come when your Christianity prevents you from participating in things like getting a job, getting a loan, getting healthcare. That’s what this cancel culture is trying to accomplish.  They want to “retrain the brains” of conservative thinkers by putting us in “retraining camps.” That’s no joke, and I’ve heard it come out of the mouth of more than one popular liberal whose voice will be heard in Washington. This is why we need to speak out in our communities while we have the chance. We need to tell every elected official that we will not tolerate their votes going toward the liberal agenda, and if it does, we need to make sure someone stand against them boldly and loudly the next election. 

Apostle Paul did is best to persuade King Agrippa who said in Acts 26:28 “Paul, almost thou persuades me to be a Christian.” Has anyone said that about us lately?

Bothersome Battles

A great distraction from the gospel is anything for arguments sake. Scroll social media and I can almost guarantee at least one of your friends is on a rant about something. Our minds immediately go to that place… then to the comments…. then maybe commenting ourselves. Then back to follow up on those comments! Those bothersome battles can consume our day. I speak from experience. Just bein’ real. If it’s shiny, I’ll look!

Take this challenge today… scroll your own social media posts for one day and count how many are encouraging in Christ, or simply worldly thoughts and notions. If it’s the latter, why? This is not to get on you, it’s to encourage you to keep godly conversations going, not worldly ones. Because your worldly conversations may be the “something shiny” that distracts another brother or sister in Christ. Not that we can’t have normal conversations; but the bulk of our conversations should be used to draw all men to Christ. 

Hey, here’s an idea. If this blog encouraged you today, share it! Then you’re one post up on the side of Christ!

Posted in Evangelism, Faith, Fear, Grace, Life Inspiration, Peace

Don’t Live with Stolen Peace

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Don’t Live with Stolen Peace

“I’ve been reading in the book of Revelations a lot Shari.” That has been spoken to me many times lately. I love the fact that people are so inclined to share their scripture reading with me, those who are church goin’ folks, and those who aren’t. People are searching for answers to these unprecedented times. They know somethings up, they just don’t know what it is. And it’s no coincidence that even non bible reading people are searching scriptures for the answer. From birth we are drawn to God, and He continues to draw His people to Him. Unless, He gives them over to their own wickedness because they’ve gone past a line that He alone knows. Scary thought. 

John 12:32 KJV

And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

I’m so glad He drew me in February 18th, 1996. My life has been so blessed and this is my 25th anniversary year of salvation. Woot woot!!! That’s a reason to celebrate! And the peace of salvation is yet another reason. I truly don’t understand how the unsaved are making it through these days without the Holy Spirit’s comfort. Peace, beyond understanding… what a gift. 

In the book of Revelation peace is mentioned two times. Once to those who have it, and once to those who it was stolen from. 

Revelation 1:4 KJV

John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and fro,m the seven Spirits which are before his throne;

Peace to the Church

John wasn’t speaking to any denomination regardless of what religion tells you. Nobody owns Saint John. Well, God does. But not any church. At this time John is writing to seven church in Asia from the Isle of Patmos where he’d been banished. They had tried to “cancel” John too. It’s nothing new. But the word of God will not be stopped, not then and not now until He has completed His work on earth. And that is the reason that people are drawn to the book of Revelation, because it is the book of God’s final work on earth. While we’re not living in the tribulation, else the church would be gone, we are living in times of trial leading into it. God is preheating the oven for Sunday dinner, so to speak. 

Sunday’s coming…if you’d like to listen to that sermon by Dr. Jack Hyles. It’s a good one! and here’s the link: https://youtu.be/ULO2Bwhg_vc

But if you’ll stay tuned to me for just a second, I’ll finish up my thoughts on the peace of God for these troubled times.

John reminded the church of their gifts of salvation, the grace of God, and the peace of God. Thank God for grace! Lord Jesus knows I need it daily as I stumble through this world making error after error, watching my world fall apart around me, knowing that I don’t measure up to the word of God, and yet He still allows me to play a part in the salvation of others by sharing God’s word in this and other formats and experiencing the peace that passes all understanding. We cannot allow ourselves to take grace for granted and our opportunities to talk to our family and friends about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. They need to hear it whether or not they want to. Yes, they’ll cancel you out if they can. But hopefully that seed will take root in their hearts and they’ll discover how wonderful the peace of God is. We are a privileged people to have peace. Surely we know this when we see the opposite of that in the faces of those who know not Christ, or they know Christ, but they’re failing to experience Him because they don’t have a relationship with Him. 

I know the people in my own life get tired of hearing me say, go to church, go to church, go to church. But John didn’t write to the people of Walmart. He wrote to the church. Those who were active in the body of Christ. They’re not a perfect people. But they’ve got enough sense to know they need to be with God’s people for encouragement and they need to hear the word of God on a consistent basis so that the peace doesn’t slip away. Glory to God for the church!

Now lets discuss for a minute the other group of people John wrote to and about. 

Stolen Peace from the Earth

Revelation 6:1-4 KJV

 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see. And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer. And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see. And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.

Satan has always loved chaos and God is never the creator of chaos. Although some would have you believe it. God will certainly let us reap what we sow, that’s scriptural too, but its not created by Him, it’s created by us. We are the ones who have allowed this earth to get in this shape. We’ve sat silent and watched as the church faded into the background of Sunday morning priorities, given way to the lake and the shopping mall and sleeping in. Oh gracious, I’m preaching now! But it’s the truth. If you’re not in church on Sunday morning you know it’s the truth. You don’t have peace, and if you think you do, you’re being deceived by the guy on the red horse. Actually I don’t know who was on the red horse. Likely one of Satan’s minions who in John’s day were emperors of war who stole their peace, but spiritually and metaphorically is speaking of the spiritual wars we’re battling today. 

I’m certainly not a scholar of the book of Revelation. I know just enough to be dangerous, but I know the gospel. and I know how it works. God is peace. Satan is everything this world thinks is peace. He is the great imitator of God and attempts to deceive even himself that he will have that role some day. Foolish demon. 

Are you a child of God? Don’t let Satan take your peace. Trust that God has our story written out in Victory. And tell your people, they need to know! And for certain live that peace in front of them because that testimony will be what wins them over and makes them desire to know the God of all!

Amen? Amen!!!

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

The Mayhem, the Ministry & the Master

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Mayhem, the Ministry & the Master

A January 7th, 2021 perspective.

Woah Baby! What a ride we went on yesterday. Praise God for Wednesday Night Church and leadership that has the hard conversations the church needs to hear. There were times yesterday when I wished I was in Washington. I am so fed up with our National leadership who failed America in her most desperate moment. Most desperate? Seriously, after everything our country has been through from the Civil War to Afghanistan? And yesterday was our most desperate? Yes and Amen. Because yesterday was the first time EVER that the constitution was not defended by our government with the exception of President Donald Trump. And the citizenship who did was mocked for it.

I didn’t spend a whole lot of time on social media yesterday, I mostly tuned in to what was happening at and in the Nation’s Capitol. But yesterday evening a post went through me and I wanted so badly to respond. But I did not. The post was from the liberal perspective. An “educated” person, as a matter of fact an educator without an ounce of common sense when it comes to what they should be teaching. When BLM and Antifa took hostage an American city, killed innocent people and destroyed homes and businesses, this person said nothing. But suddenly they have an opinion on the Republicans right to defend their opinion. Remember… I said there were times I wished I was in Washington, DC. And I’m under no circumstances a violent person. Well, let me say under few circumstances. Push the right buttons and … But the arrogance of the liberal anti-American to the core Democrat body is more than my heart can stand. It physically ached yesterday for my Nation and for my God knowing the wickedness that we have allowed to now be in control. They are clueless. 

Okay…. now that I’ve spoken from the flesh, let me speak from the Spirit. Normally on Wednesday night I’d be down stairs teaching teens. But last night I wanted to hear from my Pastor. I needed his calm, sound advice. Because I was hurting and I knew when I was hurting that I was controlled by emotion and I don’t always see God’s design and plan as I should. Shari is strong willed. Shari has a strong opinion. Shari loves America, a lot. So much so that sometimes I forget this is not the Promised Land I should be defending. 

Our scripture last was in John 6:

 [15] When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.

He could have been King of the earth that very day. He had just fed thousands with 2 fishes and 5 loaves of barley bread. The people wanted a leader like that. They wanted someone who could provide the money… the bread. And there He was before them, and they were ready to put a crown on His head and follow Him wherever He lead.  Wait a minute? If thousands were just fed and ready to crown Him, where were they when the crown of thorns was pressed down around His brow and He was beaten until His body was unrecognizable? They were no where to be found.

Donald Trump is not my Savior. He’s my President for a few more days and I will relish in every second of it because what’s coming in is a disgrace. But yesterday, in my broken hearted state I temporarily lost site of my purpose on earth. I’m the Jesus Chick. Jesus is my Master and the church is my refuge. Not the Capitol. My Pastor’s sermon reminded me of that last night. It also reminded me of where my attention should be. On the local body…. that’s the one I have the most influence over. Nobody in Washington gives a rat’s butt about Shari Johnson. But locally, they know me. They know where I stand and I stand for them. I stand for Victory Baptist Church, because it is there that I was called to serve.

It’s the one commonality I’ve noticed about most of the liberals who voice their opinion against Donald Trump. They have very little to say about Jesus Christ. They don’t share the gospel… it might offend. They are one step away from that idiot, disgraceful representation of a holy man who said “A-woman” in an opening prayer to the Senate. If he was around in the days that Jesus walked the earth, he probably would have been selling the doves in the temple when Jesus turned over the table and threw them out.  Yes, my God got angry, called people out and even got violent because there’s a time for it.  That time is when people are mocking God. (Mark 11:15). 

So where does that put my frame of mind today? Where does it put yours?

For me, today (at least this hour) I’m focused on Christ and His purpose for this girl. The Jesus Chick. My purpose in the ministry has always been to be an encourager for people to continue on in the faith and truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. To teach it to the best of my ability through the platforms that God allows. In 2021 I want to be here for my people. And my people are God’s people. I want to love on you, encourage you and strengthen you with His words and His ways. I want to be a resource of Christ. Use me Lord Jesus. Amen. Just Amen…. So be it. 

Message me, call me or find me on social media. Let me know your prayers and anxieties. Please share this post and most of all, share Jesus! The world needs to meet Him.

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration

Are We a Peculiar Treasure?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Are We a Peculiar Treasure?

It always amazes me when the Lord leads me where I didn’t expect to go, or He shows me something I didn’t expect to find. Such was the case today. I’m continuing on in my journey with my word of the year, “treasure.” I’m following through the scriptures and my third treasure, literally! I found in Exodus 19, primarily verses 5 and 6, but I’ll give you 7 and 8 for context of today’s message. 

Exodus 19:5-8 KJV

[5] Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: [6] And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel. [7] And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the Lord commanded him. [8] And all the people answered together, and said, All that the Lord hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the Lord.

While it’s an awesome scripture and an awesome thought on it’s own, it bears significant meaning to me because may life verse is 1 Peter 2:9 KJV

[9] But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

My New Testament life verse, given originally to the Nation of Israel, and yet, I too am allowed to claim it because of the great mercy of Christ that engrafted me into the Kingdom of God. I’m sure I’ve read it, and yet I didn’t know it was there, and would not have known still if God had not laid the word “treasure” on my heart for 2021.

God’s People are Still Rebellious

Obedience has not always been my forte. As a matter of fact, I’m ashamed to say, it’s still not. I rebel in so many aspects of life. And yet, God chooses to use someone such as I. Praise God for grace! I’d have not last 2 seconds under the law, and it’s why I would not ever throw stones at Israel. While I’ve questioned why they turned their backs on God again and again having seen His miracles first hand, I know in my heart I’m no different. I too have seen His miracles and yet when He calls me out to do something for Him, or do something I know is right, I fail. Again and again just like Israel. I will choose the rebellious path knowing that there is a high price to pay later just to avoid reality for one more minute. 

God’s People are Still Peculiar

Or we should be. The back story on why 1 Peter 2:9 is my verse is because a preacher called me peculiar one day. I didn’t know what he meant, but I knew it was good, and so I looked up the word in the concordance and it so it became my word. I loved it! I knew God had a purpose for my weirdness. I don’t always (or ever) understand it, but I know He’ll be glorified in it if I allow myself to follow His heart and my desire.

The problem with human nature is, we want to go the way water is flowing. It’s hard to flow against the current, and yet that’s what God expects us to do. What’s right and acceptable in the world is far from right and acceptable in God’s eyes. But so many churches have adopted policies rather than the principles and peculiarities of God. Their mission statement are politically correct rather than biblically correct, and so are the lives of their people. The very fact that we have shut down 9/10 of the churches in American proves it. (That’s my number, not actual fact) I don’t know the percentage, I just know it’s too high. 

I know there’s real fear. And I can sympathize and empathize with it. But there’s got to be real faith too!

God’s People are Priests

I don’t begin to understand it all. But in reading the commentary of John Gill, my soul is stirred, so I’ll share it with you.

Priest, a character which one of the Jewish commentators says shall return to the Jews לעתיד לבא, “in time to come”; and well agrees with all the people of Christ, whether Jews or Gentiles, who are all of them kings, through their relation to Christ; and at the present time have a kingdom which cannot be moved, or taken away from them; being not only brought into the Gospel dispensation, the kingdom of the Messiah, and having a right to all the privileges and immunities of it, but have also the kingdom of grace set up within them, or grace, as a reigning principle, implanted in them; which lies not in anything external, but in righteousness and true holiness, in inward peace, and spiritual joy; and they have the power of kings over sin, Satan, and the world; and the riches of kings, being possessed of the riches of grace now, and entitled to the riches of glory in another world; they live like kings, they wear royal apparel, the robe of Christ’s righteousness; they sit at the king’s table, and feed on royal dainties; and are attended on as kings, angels being their life guards, and ministering spirits to them; and hereafter they shall reign with Christ on earth, and that for the space of a thousand years, and, after that, for ever: being raised up from a low estate, to inherit the crown of glory, to wear the crown of life and righteousness, and possess the kingdom prepared for them from the foundation of the world, of which they are now heirs: and they are “priests”, as well as kings; being made so by Christ, and through his priestly office; are anointed with the Holy Ghost, and sanctified by his grace, and allowed to draw near to God, and offer up by Christ their spiritual sacrifices of prayer and praise; and are enabled and assisted to offer up the sacrifice of a broken heart, and their bodies also, and even their lives when called to it; the allusion is to the kingdom and priesthood being formerly together, and which met in Christ, Zechariah 6:13 and in his people. The Jews were wont to call the priestly dignity and office כתר כהנה, “the crown of the priesthood”:

I am not so eloquent in speech as Mr. Gill, but I feel as he does, he just explains it better!

How exciting to look forward to a time when this world will not be in the dismal torment it is now. But peace shall reign. Christ shall be with us and we with Him and our jobs will assigned according to our work here below. Oh God, help me be a peculiar treasure every day…