Category: Evangelism

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith, Life Inspiration

Dandelion Lessons

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Have you ever been in a position in life where you just wanted to skip out on the the whole thing? I haven’t been there for many years, but I’ve been there, so I can certainly speak with authority. There are many who wisely chose a career path, and in so doing were positioned for contentment. And then there are those like myself who allowed the wind to blow me in whatever direction it so chose and I just went with it. And it seldom lead to a place of contentment: primarily caused by the fact that God wasn’t foremost in my life when I was in those tornados of torment. But having been saved a quarter of a century this year I feel as though I have some authority in that respect as well. Disclaimer, salvation didn’t bring contentment, my relationship with Christ brought contentment. But even that has moments of discontent caused by worldly influences that I allow to penetrate my spirit. Not the Spirit of God, but the spirit within me that likes to go the way the wind blows. 

1 Corinthians 7:20-24 KJVS

[20] Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called. [21] Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather. [22] For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord’s freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ’s servant. [23] Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. [24] Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.

Pauls words stung somewhat as I read them, for I have not been “abiding.”

If you look the word “abide” up in the New Oxford dictionary. The 1st definition is “accept or act in accordance with (a rule, decision, or recommendation):”

But, if you look it up in the 1828 dictionary the 1st definition given is “to wait for; be prepared for, to await.” 

That’s what abiding in Christ is. Contentment, come what may. Just wait. But then the wind blows and distracts my thoughts, and away I go like those little fuzzy things on dandelions. I think there’s a reason our attraction to those weeds, even when they aggravate our landscape, doesn’t stop us from picking one, blowing on it and watching the wind carry them away. Or maybe that’s just me. But it seemed to describe my spirit this morning when Paul’s words reminded me that I was not abiding as I should be, therefore I was ripe for the picking as a dandelion on a spring lawn. And that’s not good. Because God wants His children grounded and stable.

The Same Calling 

Paul said Let every man abide in the same calling where he was called. 

In 2005 I was called to be the Jesus Chick, in 2010 that call came to fruition as a website, and speaking opportunities. But here we are at the end of 2020 and I am still in many ways “waiting.” Speaking engagements in 2020 were postponed and some canceled. Singing and ministry opportunities were disallowed by the government and me being ministered to changed to the form of cyber church.

But Lord, how can it be the same calling, if everything’s changed?

It was at this point that I watched the dandelion video. Here’s the link: https://youtu.be/A6MZT7uf_5Y The same flower, but in it’s death it changed. Again Paul’s words pierced my soul. I’m not abiding…

My ministry never changed. The times around me did, the circumstances of my life did, but not the calling on my life. When Jesus came to this earth as a baby in a manger, for 30 years He abided in His Father. Awaiting the day when God’s plan would fulfill itself in the form of His crucifixion. It wasn’t a day He looked forward to, but He knew it was necessary. The prophets of old foretold it, His own words prophesied it in John 12:23-28 KJV

[23] And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. [24] Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. [25] He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. [26] If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour. [27] Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour. [28] Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.

And so it was in His death that the seeds of life were sown for we Who claim Him as our Savior. We’re given that renewed hope of life here and life eternal and we will have great fruit if we die to ourselves and allow Christ to work through us in the work He has called us for. 

I think of how many dandelion seeds come from one little stubborn dandelion. And they are a stubborn plant. If you’ve ever pulled one up, you know! So my prayer today is this

Lord root me in the ground

As a dandelion in the spring

That digs itself deep in the earth

And waits for the sun to bring

Life giving rays of hope

That create flowers of beauty in gold

Which soon give way to seeds of life

Every time Your story is told.

Shari L. Johnson

I don’t know about you… but I needed the little dandelion lesson today. Root deep child of God and stand your ground, and spread the Name of Christ at every opportunity. Amen.

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism

John the Baptist 2020?

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Have you ever given much thought to John the Baptist? The man most Baptist churches wouldn’t even want in the building. I imagine a modern day version of him with dreadlocks, a leather biker jacket and chaps. Holy jeans and a pocket tee with the sleeves ripped out. The pocket would have gospel tracts and a post card to write his bible verse of the day on. His worn out motor cycle would be an off brand, not a Harley, and his saddlebags would hold a tent and the word of God. Maybe a few tools for foraging food. That’s John the Baptist 2020. 

He’d pull into town, set up camp in the edge of the woods and then let the preaching commence. But that’s not quite how it was in the year of our Lord 30ish. 

Matthew 3:1-6,8-12 KJVS

[1] In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, [2] And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. [3] For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

John is preparing the people to meet the adult version of Jesus. He was telling them, “Straighten up you Heathens, the Lord’s coming to town!” The Jesus that John had grown up with. They were likely known as “John and his weird cousin. While other kids were making sling shots to play war, Jesus and John would have been playing secret Santa to the widow ladies in the neighborhood and healing stray dogs. But now they are adults and God had paved the way for them in prophecy and they were about to step into those roles with passion that hadn’t been seen since Elijah. Wowzer! I just wrote myself happy with that. Can you imagine witnessing that first hand.  I can imagine it, but the problem is I don’t want to give up my modern tech and lifestyle to live it. How about you? 

I just got the coolest Cricut for Christmas, John ate Crickets… well, locusts, but bugs none the less. I’d like to think that a  2020 John would eat McDonalds Big Macs and drink sweet tea. But that was not the case of 30 John.

 [4] And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. [5] Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, [6] And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. [8] Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:

You’ll note the people came to John. Maybe in curiosity, but when they got there they began taking action! They repented and were baptized and began their ministry journeys My salvation was a little like that, there was a preacher man hollering in the hollow outside of town, who caught my attention and made me realize that i was going to Hell. I was so thankful. And so began my life in the ministry. 

That’s kind of where I’m at this morning, reminiscing about where my life with Christ began, and where it’s going. Am I ready to get radical for Jesus in 2020? I need it. I need to do something that makes people look at me weird but then causes them to say… I need that. I’m tired of old religion. I want the new stuff.

[9] And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. [10] And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. [11] I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: [12] Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.

Just a short post this morning. In between nodding off. I’m a little past exhausted from all the Christmas festivities, but I’m more just tired of myself. You probably won’t see me in town on a motorcycle screaming “Straighten up you heathens and come to Jesus.” But I pray you see some weirdness for Christ in my life come 2021. How about you? What’s Jesus doing with your life?

Posted in Bible Journaling, Church attendance, Church Unity, Evangelism, Faith, Fear, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Uncategorized

Whose Influence are we under

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I wasn’t sure where my thoughts were going this morning when I began to read the scripture. I’m still not, but I know where my mind has been lately; and if I’m right, God’s word will align. If I’m wrong He’ll line me out. That’s how God’s word works. I’ve been lined out on more than one occasion. 

I have this question for myself, as well as my readers this morning. What’s your influence, both that of the influence you make and the influence that is made upon you? Luke, who had been under the influence of Christ Himself wrote about it in the book of Acts 19. There were two very strong influences in the community, one of evil and one of good. And both had made an impact in the area and both had a following of friends. But it was about to come to a head as it often still does in the world we live in when right has the audacity to step into wrong’s territory. 

Acts 19:24-30 KJVS

[24] For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen; [25] Whom he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said, Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth.

There’s Big Money in Evil 

Demetrius was a man of skill, and he used that talent to craft items of worship to the gods of the day making great wealth from it. You know… like Apple products, boats, cars, etc. Things that keep folks out of church. And he was none too happy when Paul and his disciples came into town and started getting peoples mind off of the world and onto the matters of the Spirit of God. So he called a town wide meeting of the merchants and reminded them of where their bread and butter came from and who was making toast. And that my friend is what continues to happen today. Evil is big business. From the drug industry (both prescription and illegal), social media, social standing, and our selfie society that is all about taking care of my four and no more with everything materialistic and no focus whatsoever on their standing with God. The god’s and marketing strategies may have changed but not the dollar made.  

There’s a High Price for Morality

But it doesn’t have a thing to do with money. 

Demetrius continues his conversation:

 [26] Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands: [27] So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth. [28] And when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.P

Long, long before social media, Paul’s influence was vast. And it still is. And all for the sake of Christ. The world has tried multitudes of manners to destroy Christianity, to no avail. They’ve tried persecution, that made it grow. They left it alone, which worked for some who became “religious” to the point of no affect, (but then a new generation stirred the fires again). But their latest “divide and conquer and by all means stir fear” tactic has been surprisingly successful. 

I love online ministry and the part it plays in filling the void where people can’t get to church; but I’m telling you right now, that’s not God’s intention for the church. As one preacher used to say, “when someone in your family dies, see if your internet preacher will come and do the funeral.” God never intended the local church to be global. But Satan did. Because he knows if people aren’t talking, they’re just listening and usually to multiple things… they’re not physically feeling loved and a part of a body of believers,  they’ll have time to listen to him too. “Stay home… don’t fellowship… nobody cares… 

So what does that have to do with morality? There’s no accountability to an online church. If your people are all over the world, they know nothing about your behavior, but if you live in a community where people you go to church with see you on a regular basis, you’re held to a higher accountability. Not to the man, but to God. It’s true! I love my church people, I want to encourage them and live my life in a manner that makes them say, “Yes! Shari is apart of our church.” But if my church is 3000 miles away, I can live my life how ever I want and the Pastor will be none the wiser. I’m not saying that internet church doesn’t do a great work. It’s taking the gospel to the ends of the earth. That’s awesome. But when people use it as an excuse not to fellowship with their local church, Houston we have a big problem.

Morality matters. And Satan knows it. The high price for morality isn’t the dollar. It’s the life you live.

There’s Massive Confusion in the Whole Matter

 [29] And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul’s companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre. [30] And when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not.

Gaius and Aristarchus are attacked by the powers that be in the community that were “filled with confusion.” This describes that state of the world. Satan has them continually stirred and confused. The world today is on information overload. Likely the people of Paul’s day were coerced by the evil powers that be in the spiritual realm, the same as they are today. Brother Paul was going in to take care of the situation but some of his homies persuaded him not to. Why did they stop him? Likely because they feared for his safety and they knew his value in the ministry. Not that God values anyone above the other, but if leadership is gone, you run the risk of the body of believers falling apart. I’ve seen it in the best of churches. Praise God, when we were Pastor-less for a year while searching for a new Pastor, God sent strong leadership in to keep us going, and we as a body knit closer together for fear of falling apart. We knew what we had and we didn’t want to lose it. Not every church knows what they have. And some, unfortunately never had it.  I don’t say that viciously or facetiously, I say it in all seriousness and concern. I’ve seen churches treated like nothing more than a social hall for good deeds and a few encouraging words. That ain’t it! Paul and his friends were willing, and many did, to die for the cause of Christ. 

God’s not asking us in America to die for the cause, He’s asking us to live for the cause. Which still might be dangerous. So, I go back to the original question: what’s the impact we’re making in our community. What is our sphere of influence. Are we willing to rush into the “Theatre” to rescue those in danger? How about into a house or local business where you know there’s someone in need of Christ? How about in your own family? Are you satisfied with a cyber church? I love my cyber peeps, but that’s not where God called me to be… I need my locals!

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

It’s a Good Day for a Drink

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Coffee of course… what were you thinking!

One of my favorite drinks is definitely coffee, I can’t go to church without stopping for a cup somewhere, but if I can I prefer making my own at home with these delicious keurig pods.

As I head into the Christmas season, my floor is filled with the goodness of God in a material form, and for that I’m grateful because I know with it will come the joy and laughter of my family and a great opportunity of togetherness. But we all know that even that can change on a dime when Covid-19 comes to your door step and finds you quarantined. I’ve had family and friends who have been through it and some who are in the midst of it. And it can cause your simple ways, not to be so simple. For me this virus has somewhat jaded my opinion of many professionals and confirmed my opinion of some idiots. 

Maybe that’s where David was in Psalm 116, I don’t know, but he certainly seemed fed up. 

Psalm 116:6-13 KJVS

[6] The Lord preserveth the simple: I was brought low, and he helped me. [7] Return unto thy rest, O my soul; for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee. [8] For thou hast delivered my soul from death, mine eyes from tears, and my feet from falling. [9] I will walk before the Lord in the land of the living. [10] I believed, therefore have I spoken: I was greatly afflicted: [11] I said in my haste, All men are liars. [12] What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits toward me? [13] I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord.

I don’t believe all men are liars. But there’s a bunch of them right now! Most of which are in Washington. But David’s words put life into perspective this morning for which I needed. 

The Lord Preserveth the Simple

That’s what David said and I believe it. And as it was with David, the Lord preserves us often times by allowing hardships to come upon us and then bringing us through. The humility of it all causes us to realize we’d be dust if it were not for His great mercy.

The Lord deals Bountifully with the Bawl Babies

For which I am one. I have a tender heart that takes very little to upset. But that tender heart is also what causes the compassion to well up in my soul and have a desire to help people. To love the unloveable and to want to share Jesus with everyone, even those who make it known they don’t appreciate my efforts. They break my heart and cause me to care deeper. But then what, where does one go from there when the world doesn’t want your gift of eternal life that Jesus’s provides. Rejection is hard, even if it’s not you they’re rejecting. 

The Lord Delivered me, and I need to tell people!

Isn’t the words of David amazing. How many times he allowed God to use him and then penned his successes and failures for all the world to see and receive guidance for their own lives from. David walked in the Lord’s paths and he Believed!!! And because of that he spoke it. Glory to God I love that! I’m a talker and telling people about the amazing things God does is so encouraging to my own soul. But then I suffer the affliction of this world and in my haste I don’t think there’s a trustworthy person on the earth. 

That’s what David thought, until he was reminded of his own salvation.

The Lord Reminds me of Who I am and Who He is

Before salvation I was that loser and liar that I’m so frustrated with today. I have no possible way of repaying Him for His goodness; from  the gifts under my tree to the gift of life.  All I can do is sit here with my cup of coffee and praise Him for His cup of salvation. All I have to give Him is my praise. He owns everything else already. 

I’m so grateful for His word and how a portion of scripture can put my life into perspective. At least until the next minute I am falling apart. 

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism, Forgiveness, Grace

There is no stone in my hand

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If you’ve been in the Bible anytime at all, you know her. If not, let me introduce you. She was a woman caught in the very act of adultery. Exactly how does one get caught in the act of doing something behind closed doors? If I were guessing I’d say there were some perverts in the neighborhood. But that ain’t none of my business… Nor was it any of theirs when they caught this woman (and the unmentioned male counterpart) in a compromising position. But they did catch them and set out to make an example of her by casting her into the street to be stoned. But along came the Lord Jesus, and that story turns into one of the greatest stories of redemption in the Bible. An adulterous woman ready to accept her stoning found herself rescued by God and her accusers gone.

John 8:7-12 KJVS

[7] So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. [8] And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. [9] And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. [10] When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? [11] She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. [12] Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

What brought this story to my pen this morning was verse number 9 and the word “convicted.” The only time that word, in any form is mentioned in the Bible, and yet it is such a common topic of conversation within the Christian realm. A fact I found rather interesting. I got my day started early this morning, about 4 a.m. and began praying for family and people in the church. I’m not always (seldom ever) that in tune with God when I first get out of bed, but this morning I felt a sense of urgency about praying and writing. As I prayed, I mentioned to God that some of the people in my life needed to feel His conviction to have a greater relationship with Him. And then I thought about how crazy that sounded. Why would anyone need “convicted” to be in a relationship with God? The greatest experience in my life has been my relationship with Him. There is no greater friend and Person of understanding than the Lord Jesus Christ, and yet there are so many still lost and undone in the world. It also took that aforementioned conviction to bring me to the saving Grace of Christ.

While guilt and conviction was no doubt upon the woman laying on the ground. That conviction came from the crowd, not Christ. The crowd had their stones ready and were actually excited about it until Jesus wrote something on the ground. It doesn’t say what He wrote, God leaves that to our imagination. I often thought it was the sins of the onlookers and mainly those of a religious nature. They’re usually the ones excited about throwing stones. But it says they left one by one, with the oldest leaving first. Funny thing about age… the older we are the more sins we stack up. Praise God for salvation! I certainly have my share and more under the blood. 

The woman didn’t know anything about the blood that day. That event had not come to pass. But she knew about forgiveness and the freedom it affords. Possibly for the first time in her life she felt of value. That’s how God makes me feel. Until I came to know Christ, nothing I ever did felt of any value. It wasn’t because people didn’t encourage me, but I believe it was because I had yet to use those gifts for their intended purpose. 

When I pray for the conviction of friends and family, I’m not throwing stones. I don’t know their sins. But I know their needs. Everyone needs to feel loved and worthy and that’s what Christ does. But until we realize how very unworthy we are to have a friend so wonderful, one willing to die for us in a way far more harrowing than that of the condemnation of people, we cannot appreciate the gift of salvation. I pray you know Him. I pray you’ve felt the love of God in your life. Christmas is a wonderful season because it’s filled with family for the most of us, but there are many who have no one. Help me be the one who stoops to the ground and picks the unloved up and introduces them to Jesus. 

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

The Bread and Water’s Free

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You don’t necessarily have to look at my waistline to see that I love bread, but it helps. I have found very few forms of bread that I don’t love. Possibly none. Homemade is my fav, but store bought’s just fine in a pinch. I prefer to think that my mindset is godly. (Like most Christians.) Is too much unhealthy? Yes. Does that stop me from wanting it? No. And I’m positive that won’t send me to Hell, unless of course you talk to a skinny person about it, and then they make you think it will. I’m only partly joking. 

I got on this thought this morning because of a song by Chuck Compton. “Bread and Water.” I’ll post the video below, it will bless the socks off of you. And because of my bestie Glo’s desire to share homemade bread to encourage folks in our church, and in so doing, share the love of Jesus. Isn’t that a great idea! Of course it’s not about the 🍞 bread so much as the love behind it, but the bread doesn’t hurt! 

Life Giving Bread

John 6:32-51 KJV

[32] Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. [33] For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. [34] Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. [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. 

It’s absolute truth that when I discovered Jesus Christ and accepted Him as my Savior, I never wanted for anything spiritually again. I won’t say I didn’t what things of the world, I’m still of the flesh, and I like all things bling, but spiritually… Jesus filled me to the brim and overflowing! When I see this world going crazy around me, and I’m still at peace, I sometimes even question it myself? “Shari why are you not falling apart.” And then I remember, Oh yeah… because Jesus is the glue that holds me together. I don’t understand how people survive without Him. 

While we focus much of our testimony on the forgiveness of God, which is huge! We should also be sharing how much fulfillment comes from know Jesus with those in the world who are searching for something they don’t even know what is. They’re just following the loudest crowd.  

Soul Raising Bread!

[36] But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not. [37] All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. [38] For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. [39] And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day.

I love making homemade bread and seeing the yeast do its thing. Once those ingredients come together, the warmth of the activated yeast causes the dough to rise and begin it’s journey to the oven. Oh glory! That’s a little slice of Heaven for two reasons. The obvious of which is the fact that the bread will be ready within the hour when it gets to that point. But the other is perhaps not so clear to those who don’t know scripture. 

1 Peter 1:7 KJVS

[7] That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

When we finally see Christ, only the things in our life which cannot be burned in the fire will make it to Heaven with us. Those things we have done in this life that have brought glory and honor to the Lord Jesus Christ, some of which were absolutely no fun here on earth. But before we get there, I fully believe those works we establish on earth in His name are wafting to Heaven in the form of a scent much like that which comes from the baking of bread. Isn’t that an amazing smell? When freshly baked bread fills the kitchen. 

I imagine a scent much the same when God hears of His saints serving Him boldly in these trouble times. The world needs to see what’s cooking in God’s kitchen, and they can only get a glimpse of that through the life of one of His children. 

Stale Bread

 [40] And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. [41] The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven. [42] And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven? [43] Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves. [44] No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. [45] It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. [46] Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father. [47] Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life. [48] I am that bread of life. [49] Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. 

Those pious, religious Jews were missing out on the sweetest experience they could have ever had on this earth. Experiencing God in the flesh. But they were so wrapped up in their stale religion that they missed. I almost did! But praise God for His mercy that lead me to a church that handed out the Bread and Living Water every service and every time they went out in the community. You could tell there was a difference when they passed by, just like you can smell that aroma from the oven when the bread is about to be done. Glory to God! I just wrote myself happy. 

It’s on the Table

[50] This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. [51] I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.

While much of this blog has been metaphorically speaking. The word of God through His Spirit makes it clear. Christ was laying it out for the Jews, but they refused it. I’m laying it out for you today, please don’t refuse it if you’ve never experienced Christ. 

Jesus is coming soon, and we need to be ready and have all our friends and family ready. 

2000+ years ago, Christ walked this earth and spoke with people face to face. But now He speaks through the Spirit. Perhaps you feel it. The Salvation of Christ is much like the baking of bread, it’s a process.

The yeast is activated through warm water. And the soul of an unsaved child activated through the Water as well, it’s known as the word of God. When anyone hears the word of God they’re stirred. Whether or not they confess it, the word of God will never return void. But it can be rejected. 

Once accepted things begin to change. The Spirit will rise up in you and give you the assurance that you are a child of the living God. You received that by believing that He loved you enough to die for you. The Jews didn’t believe Christ, His truth angered them, and so they crucified Him just like He prophesied. But He rose again!!!! 

When you make bread you have to punch it down a few times, but then it rises again! Just like Jesus. They crucified Him, mocked Him, Spit on Him, they knocked Him down more than once, but that didn’t stop Him from coming out of that grave to show us that we too could have victory over death in Him. 

Isn’t that a great illustration! If you’d like to know more, message me, or click the “salvation” link at the top of the page. I pray you enjoyed this study of the Bread today. I sure did!

Here’s the Link to Chuck’s song. You might want to get a tissue!

Posted in Christian Service, Christmas, Eternity, Evangelism, Life Inspiration

Varying Degrees of Light

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Varying Degrees of Light

Midweek services were last night which is my clothesline propping up point for the week. As I drove down the country roads to the church last night I was excited to see several houses lit up in celebration of Christmas. It’s where the title of today’s blog came from. “Varying Degrees of Light.” There were houses that were lit enough for planes to see them from the sky. There were others with just a few candles in the window and everything in between. They may or may not have been representative of what was going on inside. But the lights inside the children of God are far more telling than that.  

2 Peter 1:19 KJVS

[19] We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

A Dark Place

Calhoun County, West Virginia, my earthly home til Heaven has few claims to fame. It’s population of a little more than 7000, its 281 square miles of land and it’s poor economic conditions make it a dark place for more than one reason. But on Route 16 south of Grantsville lies the Calhoun County Park that attracts people from all across the United States for the simple fact that it’s a dark place. Stargazers love the fact that they can gather on it’s high point, where the lights do not shine, and stare at the sky with an unencumbered view of the stars. 

The number of lights on the homes last night didn’t matter when it came to attracting my attention. There are no street lights on our rural highways, so even the smallest of light shone brightly in the darkness. Even the smallest of bulb was important to the Christmas spirit. And regardless of your geographic location, your light is important in this dark world. You are there for a reason. 

Jesus Christ is the only light that regardless of the time of day, or the conditions in life, His light never fails to shine. But we can hide it from the world by pulling the shades down on the windows of our souls and refusing to let Him do what He does best. SHINE!!!

Our Praise Shines

1 Peter 2:9 KJVS

[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 life verse! I chose it because of one word, “peculiar”. The best description anyone ever gave of me. Praising Christians are getting fewer and fewer. The sentiment is not appreciated by the world and so most Christians have allowed the world to dim their light for Christ by not sharing His goodness. Make it a point today to share something that God has done in your life recently. Someone needs to hear about it. Someone needs to see Jesus shine in you!

Our Gifts Shine

James 1:17 KJVS

[17] Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

A recurring theme in much of my writing will be on the gifts of God. It’s because I’m always shocked that He gave me any. I’m so unworthy. He didn’t just give me one gift, he gave me multiple. And though I never use them to their full potential, I try to use them in a manner that brings glory to His Holy name. I’m a failure. He is perfect in all His ways. 

I encourage you today to use the gifts (and I’m sure they are many) within you to shine for Christ. Are you artsy? Create something for Him! Are you musically inclined. Sing for Him! Are you an encourager? Oh how the world needs you to encourage people for Him! What about being a person of honor? Oh how that glorifies our Father when they see a child of God living in such a way. Keep on shining with everything in you! 

Our Hope Shines

2 Timothy 1:10 KJVS

[10] But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:

As this world gets darker and more evil, we see less light shining in the world. Satan is turning off the light of the church, it’s people and it’s leadership one at time. Churches are closed, giving is down, outreach isn’t always what it should be and our world is hurting. They need to the light of Christ and the hope that come from Him. We can do that by sharing His word in every form possible. 

I can’t help but think of my friend Doyle Ballengee who has going on to glory. Your seldom every met him that he didn’t pull a hand scribed index card out of his shirt pocket where he’d written down a scripture he wanted to share with everyone he met. Doyle was so little in stature, but his light shine brighter than anyone I know for the cause of Christ. 

We are blessed with multiple ways of sharing Christ. Our media forms are almost endless. Use it for Christ. Tweet the Savior! Shine the face of Jesus on Facebook. Be instant in season and out of season on Instagram. Oh the places we can go with Jesus today! 

Don’t let Satan have an inch of ground within the temple of Christ called You!

1 John 1:5 KJVS

[5] This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

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

Thou Shalt Not and other Mandates

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Thou Shalt Not and other Mandates

I worry about this social media, non socializing society. It’s much easier and justifiable to stay in your own little bubble and comply to the commands. Ugh… that makes me nauseous. God knows that I’m not a very good rule follower when I should be. I’m really kind of a rebel at heart. But when rules have been made that shouldn’t have been made I have major issues following them. 

Perhaps you’re now asking “what are you talking about Shari?” Well, let me tell you. Religion and Government Mandates have some stark things in common.

It’s for Control not for Protection

When God separated the Israelites from the Gentile nations, many of whom were wicked; He did so to protect them both physically, and spiritually. The gentiles worshipped other gods and did all sorts of wicked things that would have defiled the people of God for which He had a purpose. And God is all about timing and purpose. 

Deuteronomy 32:8 KJVS

[8] When the most High divided to the nations their inheritance, when he separated the sons of Adam, he set the bounds of the people according to the number of the children of Israel.

We no longer live in the days of separation. There are no bounds between Jew and gentile. While God tells us, that we are children of the light and should not have fellowship with children of the darkness, that separation is from a spiritual and  behavioral circumspect. Even though Jesus remained sinless, He still had physical fellowship with the sinners of the world. A fellowship for the purpose of their salvation. The religious leaders of that day were still living under the law and separation;  they were blinded to what was about to happen with regard to the Savior. 

So what does that have to do with the governmental control of today? I think I can bring that thought together, it’s just taking me a minute of back tracking. I wanted to bring to light the fact that God has a purpose in separation that is for our good. But man’s purpose of separation is contrary to God’s. 

Thou Shalt Not Gather

Unless your protesting, and then it’s fine. Unless you’re an important person, and then it’s fine. It seems the Corona virus is a highly educated 🦠 disease! It knows if you have a liberal purpose or agenda, if you’re apart of the the Marxist or Antifa tribe or if you are a liberal elected official and it doesn’t expose itself to you. That’s amazing! And it’s a load of crap. The virus, a very real virus, is clueless, but the people manipulating the virus for their agenda are not. They’re making edicts, calling them laws, and controlling people without any congressional or legislative body allowing it. And the citizens of the USA are bowing in submission without a second thought because it’s for our own good, right? Business are going belly up, churches are being fined, government entities are closed down without accountability, schools are not teaching our children and we have  allowed an election to be stolen and are keeping our mouths shut like the good little citizens we are. Well some people are. I myself have never really mastered keeping my mouth shut. 

Want proof that religion doesn’t have the best interest of our church in mind?

https://www.dailywire.com/news/pope-francis-defends-blm-protests-denounces-anti-covid-lockdown-protests?%3Futm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=dwtwitter

Thou Shalt Wear a 😷 Mask

Another edict pretending to be a law. I have no problem with a mask recommendation. However, I do have a serious issue with a mask mandate. Especially for being told to wear them outside, (totally idiotic) in my own house, ummmm no. And being told how many people can gather in my house or my church for that matter. That’s opening up the church to government control and persecution the likes of which has never been seen in America, but has been seen in many other countries. 

I see multiple reasons why the crazy leftists would want us wearing masks. Because for those who are actually out and about it takes the human connection out of the equation. You don’t see people smile, you don’t share emotions. We walk through the stores like unfeeling robots. Fearing of getting in someone else’s air space and the interaction is limited to say the least. And we’re complying. And it’s evident who’s complying and who’s not and if you’re not you’re shamed into wishing you did or angry because they’re wanting you to be ashamed. It’s nuts! Especially since the mask theory is just that… a theory. If you want or need to wear a mask, do it! But if someone else has a reason not to, leave them alone.

Below is a link to a Danish study regarding masks.

https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M20-6817

Yes, I know I can find anything I want to preach my side of the argument. But the fact of that matter is, so can they. So who do we believe?

Thou Shalt Have no Other Opinion

Acts 11:1-18 KJVS

[1] And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. [2] And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, [3] Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them. 

Peter had had the audacity to commune with gentiles. Good grief, he should have been crucified! He was, they did that later. But at this time they did at least allow Peter to explain himself.

[4] But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, [5] I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me: [6] Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. [7] And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat. [8] But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth. [9] But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.[10] And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven. [11] And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me. [12] And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man’s house: [13] And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; [14] Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved. [15] And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. [16] Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. [17] Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? [18] When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

The religious crowd wants no part of anyone who goes against the “rules” of their religion. It was hard for Peter to come out of that mindset. But at the Spirit’s leading he did. Glory! Because of those who did, this Gentile gal could hear the gospel. And that is truthfully what this world seeks to control. Through people in power being used by the demonic forces of this world, they are controlling who can get the gospel. They’d prefer nobody get it. But at least for now they can control the number. Bit by bit they take away our liberties. 

That’s certainly not a cheerful message is it. The cheerful message is this, we will over come! But until we do, don’t be dumb. Know what this world is up to. 

Posted in Christian Service, Eternity, Evangelism

Don’t Drive Your Stakes Too Deep

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion 2 Comments on Don’t Drive Your Stakes Too Deep
Ministry Friends – Patricia & Butch Dunnick

In a two story house, on small street in Windom, Minnesota, I met Butch and Pat Dunnick. They’d opened their home for me to stay in while I spoke in their city. Two small in stature people with hearts the size of Minnesota. They had dedicated their home and their lives to the service of Christ. Their story wasn’t one of living in perfection, but in my eyes they were everything I seen in the story of Priscilla and Aquila who ministered with Paul.

I’ve been fortunate to meet people in my life that impact me in such a way, when I hear their name, I have utter jubilation in my soul. Butch and Pat are two of the many. Windom, Minnesota has some great memories for me, and I wish I could pack up all those people and bring them to West Virginia with me, but that’s not how it works. But I miss them. For some reason, at 3 a.m., the day after Thanksgiving, I’m homesick for Windom. It began when I read a post of Pat’s where she shared the story of a child they had taken into their home. 

 Charlie had been a neighbor who they’d heard playing ball in his apartment. Not realizing he was alone, and waiting for a drunken mother to return home. Until one night his mom didn’t return home, she died in a car accident and he became a foster child of Butch and Pat. Charlie had secretly wanted to be a part of their family. He wanted to belong in a stable house where people loved him. He also became a part of the family of God through their influence. That’s the most important family of all! And it’s what makes Minnesota so special.

In just a short, ever so quickly passed week, I became apart of the Dunnick family through our shared Father, the Lord Jesus Christ. I belonged. Not that I haven’t always been blessed with belonging, which is why Pat’s story stirred my soul so much this morning. Not everyone does belong. There’s a world out there filled with loneliness, and praise God for missionaries like Butch and Pat who open up their home and hearts to the Charlie’s and Shari’s of this world.

They were People of Trade

Acts 18:1-3 KJV

[1] After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth; [2] And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them. [3] And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.

God used the tent making to not only provide funding for the ministry, but likely to house it as well. Tent makers by trade, I can’t help but think they were the originators of the first “Old Fashioned” Tent meetings. I could imagine many a sermon coming from the illustration of those tents not being a permanent dwelling, nor are we to consider this world a permanent place, it’s anything but! We are just a passing through going to a far better land. 

But far too many of us have set our tent stakes in concrete. Not willing to push ourselves out of the comfort zone we’re in to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. God actually had to trick me to get me out of the religion I was in, and into a place of service. The number one question for any child of God should be “Are we traveling toward Heaven, or just hanging out at the station?” If you’re not moving, find another train. 

Those tents were not only a temporary dwelling, they didn’t have a denomination associated with it either! While I’m a Baptist, by doctrine, I’m not fool enough to believe Jesus was a Baptist. There is but one church in Heaven and that is God’s church. Those who believe on the finished work of the cross of Jesus Christ for their salvation. In Christ alone. No other way. 

They were Ready to Persuade

[4] And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.

Paul, Priscilla and Aquila knew what they believed and were standing firm on that foundation in a place where their opinion wasn’t always welcome. If it were easy to persuade the world of their need for salvation there likely wouldn’t be such passion in the pulpits of soul winning churches, nor would there be such great opposition. Living your life in Christ is not a comfort zone, it’s a war zone.

My salvation was so far from anything I had ever experienced in the religious world, I knew I wanted to share it with everyone I met. Dead religion sucks the life out of you, but faith in Christ restores the soul!!! It pours Living Water into your life and causes you to overflow. When Paul met Jesus on the road to Damascus it was anything but religion. He knew religion… far better than I.  Paul was a good man, and there’s still plenty of good men in dead churches today. But when a soul is lit on fire for Christ, they become persuaders! 

Being brought up in religion will do one of three things: It will either squelch your spirit till you are of none effect, cause you to leave church completely, or, once you’ve discovered the difference between religion and relationship with Christ, you’ll become a persuader. Paul, along with Aquila and Priscilla were persuaders. I know a persuader. I am one, and I’ve had the privilege of meeting many, such as the Dunnicks!

They were Eternally Unswayed

Acts 18:5-6 KJVS

[5] And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ. [6] And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

Paul was called out to serve the Gentiles. The Jews were rejecting his message and so it was that Paul knocked the dust off his feet and headed in a new direction.

When I met the Dunnicks, I was headed in a new direction with an old story. They encouraged my plight, with their deep passion for the things of the Lord. Like Priscilla and Aquila persuaded a Jew name Apollos, it’s my prayer that I, like my friends and biblical predecessors, am a persuader and I’m unswayed when this world comes against me. 

Acts 18:24-28 KJVS

[24] And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. [25] This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. [26] And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly. [27] And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace: [28] For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.

Let it be so!!! That we are convincing this world on it’s way out that Jesus is Christ is the way, the truth and the life! Apollos was helped out doctrinally by Priscilla and Aquila. We need to know the word, stand on the word and share the word. Glorrraaaaay!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism

That Ain’t None of My Business

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on That Ain’t None of My Business

It’s not spoken aloud, but I can almost guarantee it’s spoken in the minds of the church majority. Those who read the book of Romans, comment of its worthiness in church leadership and direction of salvation and then ignore the fact that it’s more than a book to be commented on, it’s a book to be lived. 

In its final chapter, I found solace in Paul’s words. I struggle for many reasons, but one of the greater reasons I struggle is from feelings of unworthiness. I’m sure I’m not alone. That’s why I thought perhaps this was a good word for today. Satan knows he has my number when it comes to pointing out my flaws. Add to that, the fact that I’m a “woman in the ministry” and not all agree that women should be; my feelings of inadequacy are at the forefront of most days. Let me preface this by saying there are few in my circle who have made me feel that way. I’ve always been embraced as a woman of God. I make no proclamations of being a preacher. I’m a servant of God, used of God to further the gospel through various forms of media and speaking. I basically just like to talk. And when I discovered the wonders of Jesus, I had plenty to say! 

As Paul closes out his letter to the Romans, he runs down a list of people that have blessed his britches!  And the first one happens to be a woman. For that day and age, that was amazing! She was obviously quite the servant of God to have garnered the great Apostle Paul’s attention and mention. 

Romans 16:1-2 KJVS

[1] I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: [2] That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.

During Paul’s day, I highly doubt there was any “sittin’ saints in the sanctuary” just taking up space. To be apart of the church in that day, your literal neck was on the line. But not so much today. You can sit and soak it up and do absolutely nothing to contribute and not feel the least bit bad about it. True story, right? The 90% can watch the 10% do all the work of the church and say “That ain’t none of my business.”

Well, Phebe made it her business. She was the deliverer of this letter to church in Rome. I can imagine that Satan either was clueless to the power of this letter, or God had His hand of protection upon Phebe as she traveled. Probably both. But Phebe served the church in such a manner that Paul asked them to not only receive her into their body of believers but to help her out with whatsoever she asked. She had been a “soccourer” of many and Paul was included. 

To succor someone is to help them out in times of hardship and distress. Phebe stepped up and stepped out when someone needed help. Would to God I would be that person always.

While most people don’t consider themselves to be in the ministry, that’s not the case. If you’re a child of God you are “in” the ministry by proxy. You are Christ’s representative on earth and are to do His work. For that you will stand accountable. Paul may have used a gal like Phebe in this letter to prove that there is none without purpose and position and most of all none with an excuse. If Phebe, a single woman, can be used by God to deliver the gospel, care for the “business” of the church in a day when women were seen as possessions not persons of value in the world, the church would take note. 

Paul was one who had lived out his faith in such a way it wasn’t up for debate as to whether or not he was God’s man. I want to live my life in such a way. I don’t ever want to say “That’s none of my business” when it comes to serving God. 

What about you? Do you have feelings of inadequacy? Just like in the days of Phebe, this is not the time to be a timid church mouse. It’s time to step up and into the role that God positioned you for. The key word is “God.” He does the positioning. He provides the purpose. He’s always placed me in the front row of the church, both figuratively and spiritually. I’m not above any other person in the congregation, but my outspokenness and willingness to serve allows me to have “business” in the church. You are a part of my business. I love you and I want to serve you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. I pray I’ve done that today with this word.