Forgiveness – The Jesus Chick

Posted in Faith, Forgiveness, Grace, Life Inspiration, Life's Failures, testimony, Word of God

Sarcasm and Christianity, a Woodshed Moment

Written by talk2shari Published June 11, 2024June 17, 2024 Discussion Leave a Comment

I have so many question as I sit struggling at 2 a.m. to figure out what is “acceptable” behavior as a child of God in these political times. There are lines in the sand I have always tried never to cross. I don’t bring politics inside the church. Period. The church is a place that I go to worship God and learn His word with likeminded believers. The past few years have not been easy, but by comparison to my friend Peter Mwangani in Kenya, I have no right to say that I have a hard life. Nobody has stoned me. Yet. They did Peter.

I’ve been Publisher of the Ridgeview News for three very short, wonderful years. I have struggled to find my place, and then in the midst of that my world got turned upside down in a few different ways. The last few months have been difficult. I need to readjust my life to fit all the things in and in their proper perspective. I feel called to the roll of Ridgeview News, but I was certainly not uncalled from the roll of The Jesus Chick. And then there is the roll as Wife, Mother, daughter and friend. All of which I know I have failed miserably at because I’m such a chaotic personality. Throw into that mix a very passionate, sometimes flippant attitude, God and I have woodshed moments followed by discussions about allowing myself grace to be human.

I have throughout my life used sarcasm and wit to deal with hard truths. My own truth and that of other people. I read a writer recently that zinged me a little when she said that being being snarky is “nothing but fancy-schmancy passive-aggressiveness, that leads to bitterness, anger, and unresolved conflict.” I can’t disagree.

But what if I mean it? Did Jesus never get frustrated with people? I have a hard time understanding how to put the pettiness of life’s problems into the perspective of the cross. I feel that I should rise above it, move on, and focus on leading lost souls to Christ. That is why Christ died that gruesome, horrible death. And then I think about how God put us in this world to live. Not to sit idly by as “Sister Susie being Saintly in the Sanctuary.” But to live in a community and take care of it. And it is there that cause the tears to flow, my heart to ache, and the feelings of failure to come.

Love is Kind. Sometimes I am Not.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

Love is patient and kind. In some cases, love may require me to flee the temptation to be sarcastic and snarky:

1 Timothy 6:11-12 KJV

But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. [12] Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

That’s the problem for me. In this social society, there are countless witnesses to our behaviors through social media. Some would say that Christians should have no part in it. I get that theory, except that it leaves the whole thing wide open for the Devil’s playground. I occasionally get in a big way of talking and forget that when I shoot an arrow, the target is a person. I guess there is a feeling of justification in the flesh. After all, I am on the side of right. Right? Jesus was always 100% right. I am not. And the thing about an arrow, is once it’s shot. You can’t take it back.

Love Doesn’t Vaunt. I Try Not to.

I knew that when I began the Ridgeview News I would be making myself a target. I was fine with that. Nobody likes to be called out. I sure don’t. It automatically puts me in a position of defense. I understand that when I publish the issues of someone else’s life, especially mistakes that have been made, it’s not going to win me popularity. I could easily justify it by saying that they should have known when they did what they did, or put themselves in a position of power that they would be held accountable for their decisions. So will I when I stand before Almighty God. I know that, and it scares me.

To vaunt is to boast and brag excessively. That is not my style. I detest arrogance. I don’t feel good about calling someone out. Not an enemy and for certain not a friend. I have had to do both.

When you understand that you are a sinner always in need of grace, it’s hard to publish the sins of another without guilt.

Some have said, “Then don’t.” The problem with that is the community needs to be aware of what’s going on around them that effects them. I’m not publishing private sins, I’m publishing public matters that effect other people. When you’re covering the news, it’s often in the heat of the moment. I try my very best to stay impartial. I want only to print the truth and leave my emotions out, I can’t say I’m successful at that. Emotion won’t change the truth, but it sometimes magnifies the negative and may cause people to view me as feeling above the offender. If only they knew the inner turmoil I have with that. Airing dirty laundry isn’t fun. It literally stinks. I’m not writing a gossip column. I’m trying to provide the truth so the citizens of my community can make informed decisions. For too long, and I mean decades, our community has ignored the decision makers and allowed everything to be unchecked. The cost of that has been poverty, feelings of hopelessness, and an inability to stand up for their rights.

Psalm 19:14

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.

Love Doesn’t Misbehave. I Do.

If you haven’t figured it out yet, I’m working my way through my issues. Writing is the only way I seem to accomplish that. It’s a conversation between me and Jesus. It causes me to seek the only solid truth, the Word of God.

Paul told the Corinthians not to behave unseemly. Commentary said this was through using either unbecoming words, or doing indecent actions; for a man unprincipled with this grace will be careful that no filthy and corrupt communication proceed out of his mouth, which may offend pious ears; and that he uses no ridiculous and ludicrous gestures, which may expose himself and grieve the saints;

My greatest fear is offending God. But I know that’s what I’ll do if I “offend the little ones.”

Matthew 18:3-6 KJV

And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. [4] Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. [5] And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. [6] But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

The little ones doesn’t mean children. But rather speaks of the humility of those who serve God. The last thing I would ever want to do is to hurt a fellow soldier in Christ. My friend D.L. used to say, “Christians are the only army that shoots their own soldiers.” It’s the truth.

My closing questions for myself are this:

Who are the little children in my story?
Who’s the victim?
Would Jesus handle things the way I do?
How can I do better for the cause of Christ?

There is no sin by any man (or woman) that can be justified. None. Even when you feel you’re in the right. I go back to the comment that zinged me: being snarky is “nothing but fancy-schmancy passive-aggressiveness, that leads to bitterness, anger, and unresolved conflict.”

After yet another “Come to Jesus” moment that I have experienced, I determined this about snarky comments. They’re ungodly and wrong. It’s me in the flesh and I should not be. But it doesn’t change the truth.

Posted in Christian, Church Unity, Forgiveness, Life Inspiration

It could be a Wood Shed Kind of Day

Written by talk2shari Published April 14, 2024April 14, 2024 Discussion Leave a Comment

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

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

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

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

Genesis 4:1-6 KJV

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

The Fallen Countenance

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

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

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

There’s no sacrifice in veggies.

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

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

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

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

Psalm 42:5 KJV

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

Psalm 42:11 KJV

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

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

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

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

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

Posted in Christian, Eternity, Forgiveness, Grace, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Purpose

What Is It That Keeps Me Going for the Lord?

Written by talk2shari Published June 10, 2023June 16, 2023 Discussion Leave a Comment

Am I blessing the Lord? That was the question to myself this morning. Should that not be the goal in my life first and foremost? While that is my goal, I fall far short of it. I’ve stepped up on some parts of my ministries and stepped away from others. My frustration with the church hurt my heart and rather than focusing on the Lord, I focused much of my thought on myself. Which I detest. Because I know this is not about me. But it was my focus in my weakened state. I had conversations in my head that were not healthy on me spiritually. Rehashing past hurts and creating angst in my soul with regard to the current state of affairs. As always I ran from God, feeling that I wasn’t worthy of any mercy in the situation.

How can I bless the Lord if my focus is on me? My faults, failures, wants, desires…

Psalm 103:1-22 KJVS – A Psalm of David.
1 Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:
3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;
5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

What’s Within Me?

I had to take a serious look at myself. My faults and failures… I have to get rid of the things within me that do not bless God. I took a strong look, I prayed for God to remove those things, but perhaps He wants me to remove them. After all, He didn’t put them there. The things that take my mind away from God and cause me to feel unworthy were not of God or from God. They were poor decisions on my part. These things keep me from blessing God. That’s a painful reality.

What’s Around Me?

6 The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.
7 He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.
8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. 9 He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever.
10 He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.

As a reporter, I’m constantly looking into the lives of other people. Looking at government, crime, injustices of the world. I wish I could look on those things without having to have a constant mirror on myself, but I can’t. I’ve been harshly criticized for bringing things to light about other people and organizations. This weighs heavy on me at times and causes me to question, what gives me that right?

For the first time in a very long time, I believe I’m doing exactly what God created me to do. Verse 6 says that God “executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.” He sent Moses to defend the children of Israel. A stuttering, murderer. How could Moses do what he did, with the guilt of it all on him? He obviously felt ill prepared when he questioned God’s choice of him. But Moses’ desire to be obedient, repentant and just in his decisions made him a vessel God could use. Lord, let me be that vessel…

What’s Above Me?

11 For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.
12 As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
13 Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him.
14 For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.
15 As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.

God sit’s high and looks low. He knows my faults and failures. He knows yours too. And praise God He is our Father Who is pities our humanness. I pray that same pity is what drives me to write both on this venue and that of the Ridgeview News. I pray that while I report on what creates the oppression of people, I never fail to realize that we are all dust.

What’s Before Me?

16 For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more.
17 But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children;
18 To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.
19 The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.
20 Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.
21 Bless ye the LORD, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.
22 Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the LORD, O my soul.

Eye has not seen nbor ear heard what is before us, but I have vivid dreams and imaginations about it. Currently that realm is occupied by spiritual beings, but someday the children of God will take their place in the Heavenly realm. What will I be then? Will I report the news of that realm too? That would be okay. Will I be an artist? I don’t know, what God has in store for me but above all I know that before me lies a life with the freedom from sin! No guilt. No shame. No sorrow or heartache. That’s what lies before every child of God who has accepted what Jesus done from them on the cross! For now the angels do His pleasure, but we’ll join them some day and be with our family and friends that have gone on before.

Those things that are before me is what keeps me going on days when I want to throw in the towel. Praise God for His Word. It is no wonder Satan does his best to keep us from reading it. He knows the power! Power he will never have. Power we are afforded through the blood of Christ! Yep. I wrote myself happy again 😀

Posted in Forgiveness, Leadership, Life Inspiration, salvation, testimony

The Dumbing Down of Repentance

Written by talk2shari Published May 5, 2023May 5, 2023 Discussion Leave a Comment

I always like to start a blog post like this with the definition of our discussion, in hopes there actually is a discussion. That my message won’t fall on deaf ears, but stir the heart of the reader. From the 1828 Webster’s Dictionary it says that Repentance is define:

REPENT’ANCE, noun [French] Sorrow for any thing done or said; the pain or grief which a person experiences in consequence of the injury or inconvenience produced by his own conduct.

2. In theology, the pain, regret or affliction which a person feels on account of his past conduct, because it exposes him to punishment. This sorrow proceeding merely from the fear of punishment, is called legal repentance, as being excited by the terrors of legal penalties, and it may exist without an amendment of life.

3. Real penitence; sorrow or deep contrition for sin, as an offense and dishonor to God, a violation of his holy law, and the basest ingratitude towards a Being of infinite benevolence. This is called evangelical repentance, and is accompanied and followed by amendment of life.

Repentance is a change of mind, or a conversion from sin to God.

Hammond.

Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation. 2 Corinthians 7. Matthew 3.

Repentance is the relinquishment of any practice, from conviction that it has offended God.

Johnson.

The modern definition of repentance is from Merriman Webster’s says of repentance:

1: to turn from sin and dedicate oneself to the amendment of one’s life

2: to feel regret or contrition or to change one’s mind, to feel sorrow.

Obviously like most everything else in the world, we’ve dumbed down the meaning. But is the church any better? How many altars do you see lined today?

Repentance is Serious Business

The first mention of repentance is in Genesis 6:6 when scripture says that God repented: “And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.” No doubt the epitome of definition one in 1828, that God regrets the day He thought it was a good idea to make mankind. Frustrated to the point of destroying them off the face of the earth, until Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. There was still a destruction but God saved mankind. That’s ours ancestors! God spared Noah and his family telling them in Genesis 6:13 “And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.” But Noah’s family was saved. And earth was once again void of sin right? No. It didn’t take Noah’s family long to mess up either. But God had made a promise that He would never again destroy the earth in that manner, and He placed a rainbow in the sky as a covenant to Noah. And today God’s idiot humans have taken that covenant that spared our life and made a mockery of it. But judgement day will come again…

Of the 45 times repentance is mentioned in the Old Testament 32 speak of the repentance of God. His regret or decision to not take action on mankind. Is it because man had justified the grace again? No, but God’s mercy was extended each time in the hopes His people would return to Him with a right heart.

Old Testament or New Testament, the definition doesn’t change and neither does holiness of God. When John the Baptist came on the scene in the gospels saying in Matthew 3:2 “And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” things had changed, but God hadn’t. There had been no Word from the Lord for 400 years. But now there was a word and it was “Repent.” The very first word spoken by God after 400 years of silence is “Repent.” I’d say that was a pretty serious revelation for those who understood what was happening. God is telling His people to turn from their sin.

Matthew 3:3-8 KJVS
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. [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. [7] But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? [8] Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:

Commentary says that “John the Baptist called people to more than words or rituals; he told them to change their behavior. “Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins” means that God looks beyond our words and religious activities to see if our conduct backs up what we say, and he judges our words by the actions that accompany them.”

Repentance was so serious to God that it was the first word He spoke to man after 400 years. I say that again because it hit me hard this morning as I read it.

Repentance is Sacred Business

Matthew 3:9-13 KJVS
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. [13] Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.

Then cometh Jesus! Oh glory to God. Then came salvation. However, we are still in Old Testament times. People tend to forget that because the Bible just said “New Testament between Malachi and Matthew,” the law didn’t change. But people were still living under the law. God was still dealing with the Nation of Israel and we lowly Gentiles were still dogs in the street unworthy in the eyes of the Jews and God. Yes we could be saved, but through the works of the law, 613 rules not meant to be broken. I wouldn’t have lasted 30 seconds, how ‘bout you?

The truth of the matter is, the Jews weren’t keeping the law either. And they resented this hairy Priest eating bugs and honey telling them that they needed to turn from their wicked ways. But not all of them. It said many repented and were baptized and the religious were upset. They didn’t care that God was Holy and that He deserved their repentance and obedience, they cared more that man was in control of who was worthy of forgiveness and man was in control of the church business.

Repentance is Sincere Business

John ends up being beheaded, Christ is crucified and the Church becomes a different entity. It’s no longer controlled by man but there is a One to one relationship with Christ Jesus made possible by the cross. We’re no longer in need of an intercessor to God through the priests. Jesus, God Himself delivers us from the sins in our life, past , present and future, by belief alone in His finished work on the cross.

But what about the baptism. Baptism in the days that Christ was on earth was still a matter of works. The Jews were still “working” for their salvation. The final payment for the souls of mankind to be reconciled with God didn’t come until the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord. When He said it was finished, all of it was finished. There was nothing to be done by man from that point forward except to repent. Repentance as defined in 1828 definitions 2 and 3.

Salvation comes when we realize that we deserve the death that Jesus took on the cross. That was our punishment He took, and we trust in the fact that His death paid the price for presence in Him. A One to one relationship with God. Our continued repentance (not for salvation) but as defined in 1828 the third definition is to continually realize offenses in our lives that dishonor God. What then do we do? We don’t repent and get saved again, we’re already saved, but we repent and show honor to the God who saved our souls! Sincere repentance. Stop playing church. That altar is not just for flowers on Easter, it’s for the knees of the children of God to go to Him and pray for forgiveness, pray for the salvation of our people, pray for a national repentance and revival and do it with the sincerest of hearts. Believe that God is not done with His people or like the days of Noah, He’d have already returned and wiped this earth clean!

I’m as guilty as anyone. I’m not throwing rocks. I have taken my salvation far too lightly and I’m tired of being a slacker. Anyone with me? I need the altar! We need the altar! The church has taken that altar too lightly for too long and has dumbed down the meaning of repentance. It needs preached and it needs lived.

Posted in Faith, Forgiveness, Grace, Life Inspiration, salvation, Word of God

I’d Not Last 20 Minutes Under the Dispensation of the Law

Written by talk2shari Published March 7, 2023March 7, 2023 Discussion Leave a Comment

What are we hoping in today? Jeremiah has this conversation with the children of Israel in Jeremiah 17. He’d just given them a piece of his mind over their continued idol worship and wicked lives in the sight of God house, even in God’s house. It was the dispensation of the law, not the grace we live in today. It’s very easy for me to get wrapped up on the side of the law when I read these verses. I know that my heart is wicked, and God knows how wicked. While I attempt to live in this fallen world and stay out of trouble, I don’t do a very good job of it. But praise God for the Grace afforded me by the salvation of Jesus Christ!!! I wouldn’t survive 20 minutes under the dispensation of the law, but the dispensation of Grace covers my multitude of sin.

Because of that, I can read Jeremiah 17 with great joy on a day when I’m not feeling the greatest of joy in my life. I’m feeling frustration from both body and soul, and then I read the Word of God and He speaks words of affirmation that I am fine. The world’s a mess, but I am fine.

My Hope is In the Lord

Jeremiah 17:7-14 KJVS
[7] Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is.

When I accepted the work of Jesus Christ on the cross, He became the final blood sacrifice to pay my sin debt. My heart was viewed with Christ’s blood over it, like the blood that was put over the door posts in the days before the Exodus of Israel from Egypt, when the death angel passed over all the homes that had the blood applied. Just as Israel was not kept from other harsh times, their promise of the Promised Land stood firm, and while I am not given license to sin, my sins are covered and I am promised forgiveness and rest in the Lord through the applied blood. And I’m promised a life in the Promised Land of God some day!

My Heat is Quenched in His Word

[8] For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.

Even in these days of disparity that America is facing and that we individually are facing with health issues and other struggles, there is a cool drink of water found at the river of life that brings the Word to life inside of this aging body, allowing me to bear the fruit God intended and calm the heat bearing down on me. It is unfortunately not recognized until I am so thirsty that when I finally drink it in, I almost flood every part of my being to the point of strangulation. That’s a tad dramatic of course but it’s how I feel when I read the word of God and it overflows my mind like a flood on the banks of the creek following a storm. This world will suck me dry if I don’t stay in God’s word. That’s why God says to be planted, not just passing by the creek and scooping up a mouthful of refreshing Word, but gradually, day by day soaking it in until your thirst is satisfied and your life can produce fruit to feed others. I pray that is what my blog is, but I know I fail miserably when I allow myself to get away from the Water and get wrapped up in the world.

My Heart is Deceitful but my Lord is Faithful

[9] The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? [10] I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.[11] As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool. [12] A glorious high throne from the beginning is the place of our sanctuary. [13] O Lord, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the Lord, the fountain of living waters. [14] Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.

I’ll not pretend that I am a sanctimonious saint. Jeremiah didn’t either. That is why he said, the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. It is. We have to take responsibility for not only the good fruit in our lives but the stinky fruit we produce as well. While the blood of Jesus will certainly cover a multitude of sins, I shouldn’t feel so obliged to give Him so much. I have sins of omission and sins of commission. Things I don’t do and should and things I shouldn’t do but do them anyway. I’ll not throw anyone under the bus before I lay down in the road. But praise God He forgives and allows me to pick myself up and move forward.

Jeremiah speaks of unmerited riches and I can’t help but think of how many unmerited things I have been given in this world by God’s grace through people or circumstances. God is so faithful. For certain there is only One that can be given the glory for anything positive in my life and that is God.

During Old Testament times the sanctuary was where the people of God met with God. But now, that sanctuary is within the heart of a child of God. That’s an amazing thought. While the high priest would have to go to great strides to cleanse the temple and offer sacrifices for the sins of the people, my body is now a temple of the Holy Ghost and is continually cleansed allowing me to speak with God on my own, without the need of an earthly intercession. Without that, God in His holiness could have nothing to do me. But Christ made it possible for me to speak one on One, to have that water of the Word poured into my soul. Healing me of damages done by the world.

That makes me so happy today. I pray I wrote with understanding and this word blesses you. Shari Johnson, The Jesus Chick.

Posted in Christian, Eternity, Faith, Family, Forgiveness, Grace, Life Inspiration

What to Remember When Life is Harsh

Written by talk2shari Published December 10, 2021December 10, 2021 Discussion Leave a Comment

Praise God! I’ve never professed to be perfect, else there would be so many disappointed people in my life. Mainly family, who know me all too well, but friends for sure, and general acquaintances would find me sad too. I feel I say “I’m struggling” too often, but there is no other word that would describe my week. Physically, emotionally and spiritually I’ve had the worst week ever. I topped it off by ignoring God. That really made it better, right? This is a part of the imperfections that is within me. If life hands me a bad day, or in this case a bad week, I have a tendency to give my mind leniency to wander down thoughtless pathways such as internet stories and videos that take me into someone else’s world and out of my own. It’s a coping mechanism that fails miserably and yet I try it every time. Every time. It’s as if ignoring God will allow more misery to come, which I deserve, right? That’s what Satan says. And we know he has our best interest at heart. Yes, I’m that dumb, and it’s why Eve has nothing on me in the garden. I would have taken that fruit without so much as a question.

So today, the final day of the work week, I decide that I need to put on my lipstick and pull myself together and look for a way of dealing with nasty, hurtful, people. Merry Christmas to me.

So here’s my text:

1 Corinthians 16:19-24 KJV

[19] The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. [20] All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with an holy kiss. [21] The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand. [22] If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha. [23] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. [24] My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.

The closing of the book of 1 Corinthians from our friend, the Apostle Paul. A man of God who more than understood being hurt. He always brings my own petty issues into perspective. although this weeks struggles weren’t all petty. Some were pretty intense. But not “Paul” intense. No one was threatening to kill me. I didn’t have to flee for my life. But I felt hatred, and that my friend is an awful, awful feeling. Especially when it comes from a person who calls them self a child of God. I mention that only so you’ll know a partial context of my week. Partial because there was more. I hate being vague, and perhaps the story can be told some day, but for now it’s too fresh, and involves other people. But take my word, it’s been a no good, very bad, week.

So the question for myself this morning is, “How do we deal with hateful, hurtful people?”

Remember the Gift of True Friendship

At the end of Paul’s letter to the Corinthians he salutes the readers. A gesture of gratitude and respect to the churches of Asia. I have wonderful friends in Asia. That was my launching point for getting away from these feelings of hurt that I feel today. The very fact that God has given me friends all over the world. Literally! I have been to churches in Asia. I could have said to them as Apostle Paul did, to the churches of Asia, I salute you. Not only do I have friends in Asia, I friends in America and other countries too! Not fake friends, but genuine friends that if I call upon them they would do all they could do to help me out. Btu I’m not apt to call on them, because I figure everyone has issues. They don’t need mine. And so I spend a week like this one, where I feel alone, angry and hurt, without God by my side, although He is, but I pretended He wasn’t so I could wallow in self pity. But this morning I am reminded once again of the faithfulness of God and His people.

Remember the Gift of Holy Kisses

My daughter Whitney is “elfing” houses this week with her cheerleading squad. For a fee they’re hiding elves in the yards of people with children for them to locate with clues and they not only receive the elf dolls, they receive a bag of elf kisses too. It’s such a cute concept, but it’s nothing compared to the holy kiss of a saint. I know it’s hard to believe, but they’re sweeter than chocolate!

A holy kiss is much more than, just a peck on the cheek. John Gil described it as this:

A holy kiss is a Christian salutation wishing all temporal, spiritual, and eternal happiness, to one another; and which, as it should be mutual, should be also hearty and sincere, and this is meant by the “holy kiss”; the allusion is to a common custom in most nations, used by friends at meeting or parting, to kiss each other, in token of their hearty love, and sincere affection and friendship for each other; and is called “holy”, to distinguish it from an unchaste and lascivious one; and from an hypocritical and deceitful one, such an one as Joab gave to Amasa, when, inquiring of his health, he took him by the beard to kiss him, and stabbed him under the fifth rib, 2 Samuel 20:9; and as Judas, who cried, hail master, to Christ, and kissed him, and betrayed him into the hands of his enemies, Matthew 26:49.

Covid has pretty much scared people away from “holy kisses” but there are still a few who trust in a providential God to take care of the matter. I pretty much go with the flow of the person I’m greeting. If they want a holy fist bump, I’m okay with that too. But I primarily want and appreciate the sincerity of the friends who I know to be true. That is sweeter than chocolate! It’s sweet because I am painfully aware of the fact that it is far more rare than reality that there are true and faithful friends even at the church house. So this morning I am focusing on the gratitude I have for the wonderful gift of real “holy kissable” people.

Remember Jesus is Coming Soon!

There’s a phrase in this scripture that I always forget what it means and I have to look it up. In verse 22 it says:

[22] If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.

Anathema meaning “accursed”

Maranatha meaning “O Lord come.”

So it basically says “if there’s anyone who doesn’t love the Lord Jesus Christ let him be accursed when the Lord comes.

There’s a final judgment that I don’t wish on my worst enemy. To be accursed is to be eternally separated from God. When I hear people curse and tell people to go to hell, I wonder how many dare to realize that that is a real place. I look at my husband, children and grandchildren, and I realize that the love I have for them is the same love an unsaved person has for their family. The only difference being, I have the hope of eternity with my family and they do not. I can’t imagine, nor do I want imagine my family being in Hell. But that’s what happens to those who don’t love Christ. The thought is gut wrenching.

At the end of a bad week, I’m focusing today on what will be the beginning of eternity when Jesus comes. When there will be no heart ache or sadness or wickedness like we face today. If you know and love Jesus, give Him glory! If you don’t, please message me on social media or through the contact information on this blog. I need to tell you why I have the power within me to go on after a week like this. Because even when people are bad, God is sooooooooo good.

Posted in Christian, Christian Service, Evangelism, Forgiveness, Life Inspiration

Are You Wearing Compassion

Written by talk2shari Published October 27, 2021October 27, 2021 Discussion Leave a Comment

Philemon 1:1 KJVS

[1] Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer,

I encourage you to take a few minutes of your day and read the book of Philemon if this blog stirs your soul. I think most of us can relate to an act of betrayal by someone we love. It doesn’t have to be an affair, it can be even the smallest of betrayals; but any act by someone we love that shows a lack of consideration or respect for the depth of love in a relationship, hurts. For Philemon, this wasn’t a betrayal by a friend, or perhaps he was, but Onesimus the character for which Paul is writing, was a slave who had run away. That was a crime punishable by death. A crime every child of God is guilty of.

The book of Philemon struck a chord with me today because of a need to forgive some people in my life. People who likely don’t even know, or care that I have ought against them. They’re not friends, they’re just acquaintances through someone else. But their actions hurt someone I love. So therefore, I ain’t happy. And if Momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy. Or so they say. 🙂 Actually, that’s not true either. I generally don’t even let people know that Momma ain’t happy. Believing another of Paul’s theories of behavior in 2 Corinthians 2:1-2

[1] But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness. [2] For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me?

But Philemon was such a good place for me to be in spiritually today. Reminding me that the world is need of the forgiveness of children of God. Those who understand the ultimate cost of it by Christ, else how will the world ever know there is a difference.

What makes this story such a wonderful Christian reminder is the fact that a man of such great stature took the time to write a letter, while he was suffering in prison. He did so to defend a slave and seek out the compassion of his owner to treat the slave not as the piece of property he was, but as a brother in Christ, an equal to the owner. Glory to God that stirs my soul!!!

Betrayal is harsh, personal and it cuts deep. How many times had Paul been betrayed? It didn’t matter to him, because he looked at the ultimate betrayal he himself had committed against the Lord and it’s where our spirit of forgiveness should come from. That is the chastisement I feel in my soul this morning. I know we’re all human, but humanity is not an excuse in the scope of eternity. While I can get in the flesh and say, “look what they’ve done!” I can just as easily get in the Spirit and say “look what I did.”

Paul knew that Philemon was within his rights as a slave owner to be upset with Onesimus. But he appealed to him not as a slave owner, but as one who had been freed from the bondage of sin in his own life. According to one commentary, there is evidence that a slave who was initiated into the owners religion was no longer a slave, but because of the common bond, was a free man. When Onesimus had left Philemon, he wasn’t a believer, but as God would have it, he met Paul and found his name written in a book of eternity, both on this earth and in Heaven.

Are there people, who through our treatment of them, can be found to be written down in the book of Life because God made them a divine appointment with us? What if at that appointment we treated them like dung and they were forever lost? Will we not be held accountable? Paul both showed and taught compassion. For me today I have an assignment from the Lord, perhaps it’s yours too. Compassion, wear it well my friends.

Posted in Christian Service, failure, Faith, Forgiveness, Life Inspiration

You’re Not Alone

Written by talk2shari Published September 22, 2021September 22, 2021 Discussion Leave a Comment

I had no sooner gotten into bed last night, when the lyrics to a song began to run through my head. It’s been another rough week, spiritually speaking. And truthfully the lyrics came from a dark place inside my mind where I allow thoughts to gather and attack my peace. Am I alone? I kind of doubt it, which not so coincidentally is the title of the song, “I’m not alone.” One of my favorite lines in the lyrics is “A saint is just a sinner who fails yet still believes.”

It’s never been a secret that I struggle with confidence. I push through it because I know God has called me to serve Him in front of people, and so I do. Flaws and all. But then there are days when someone looks at me wrong, or says something, for which they likely gave no thought, but it cuts me to core and I’m feeling less. I know that I’m less than I could be, but I feel less than I am, and that’s down right pathetic! I’m self critical, I fail God daily, and the tole it takes is running me down spiritually and causing me to run from God.

Let me just say… that’s a bad idea.

So why does God choose to use me in spite of it all. I have only one answer that makes any sense. I’m my own sermon illustration.

If you don’t take notes in church, you should. It will make the sermon connect with you better if you write down key points that speak to your heart. I need life application preaching, because I know that God doesn’t say anything without purpose and when I hear the preacher speak, I know it’s going to be something I need for my spiritual tool kit this week. Maybe that’s what this blog is for you today, it’s a spiritual tool kit.

One of the things that the preacher said Sunday was “Satan comes after us with the things we agree with.” He can captivate our attention with that and distract us from the work of God for hours. P.R.E.A.C.H.! That is me in a nutshell. He distracts me by allowing me to get hung up on things I have no control over. Like churches not preaching the gospel, or self righteous people, or what about politics? Satan doesn’t care if I go on a tyrannical posting jag over things like that. If I’m on those subjects, I’m not winning souls or encouraging someone in their faith. I’m also not focusing on my own flaws. Hello?

So this morning I just wanted to remind you, if you’re feeling like a failure, you’re not alone. That too is something Satan will pack his arsenal full of to keep you down. I’m fighting my way back out of that hole, I’ve been there so much lately I keep snacks in there so I don’t get hungry. I ain’t lyin!

Here’s my game plan.

Face reality… what ever it is.

Let God work through it and you pray.

Commit to faithfulness to His word. (READ!)

That’s a game plan that will work… I just keep forgetting.

Romans 8:31-39 KJVS

[31] What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? [32] He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? [33] Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. [34] Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. [35] Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? [36] As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. [37] Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. [38] 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.

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

Heaven is not a Pot Luck Dinner

Written by talk2shari Published June 30, 2021June 17, 2022 Discussion Leave a Comment

What the Bible Doesn’t Say

Be careful what you say to me, it may just be the topic of tomorrows post. I don’t say that viciously, it’s just that when someone get’s the wheels in my mind turning, I usually can’t get them to stop until I figure out what the Bible says about it. And so the conversations went, that there were topics that God just didn’t discuss; therefore they were up for debate as to the moral position that a Christian should take. Okay, game on. Now my mind is not going to stop wallowing this around until I get it nailed down.

Heaven’s Not a Pot Luck Dinner

Romans 14:16-23 KJVS

[16] Let not then your good be evil spoken of: [17] For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

That thought just cracked me up! Proof that my title is true and Heaven is not a pot luck dinner, no matter how many baptist think it is. No one is really arguing about Heaven being a pot luck dinner, but there are plenty of people arguing over food, alcohol and other activities in the Bible.

How many times have I heard the argument about alcohol being wrong. I know how serious alcohol addiction is and how important medical rehabilitation center in Oregon is. And then some smart aleck will say “well gluttony is a sin too.” Of course it is, why are you looking at me when you say that? Go over in the corner and drink your beer. Just kidding. Nobody is drinking at my house. But I’ve had that conversation with waaaaaaaaay more than one person trying to convince me that my stand on alcohol is not biblical because wine is mentioned many times in the scripture. I’ve heard preachers say that it wasn’t fermented when Jesus drank it, it was the pure juice of the vine. I honestly don’t know the answer to that question. I do know that at the wedding of Cana, wine was on the menu because Jesus created it.

John 2:7-10 KJVS

[7] Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. [8] And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it. [9] When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom, [10] And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.

Within the statement of “when men have well drunk”, John Gill’s commentary said “and when men have well drank; not to excess, but freely, so as that they are exhilarated; and their spirits cheerful, but their brains not intoxicated: so the word, as answering to the Hebrew word is שכר, used by the Septuagint in Genesis 43:34.

I, quite frankly am not a scholar of Hebrew. I only know the English language and I tend to butcher it. So when I read the words “well drank.” To me it means they drank a considerable sum. And in so doing they aren’t aware or don’t care when the cheap stuff comes out. Were they intoxicated? It sounds like it to me, but what do I know. So where does that put us on whether or not God says it’s okay to drink alcohol? It doesn’t. It does however say things like

Proverbs 23:30-31 KJVS

[30] They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. [31] Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.

It’s not talking about the color of the wine being the issue but rather the intent behind the heart that’s looking at it. Don’t be lusting after the wine like a drunkard.

And Proverbs 20:1

[1] Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

Neither verse says “thou shalt not drink alcohol.” But they certainly give indication that it’s not always a good idea. And as for the advice for our era of time, meaning the advice we receive from Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles… that’s us… and his advice which was that of Romans 14, “the kingdom of Heaven is not meat and drink.” Heaven isn’t about what you eat or drink. It’s rather about righteousness, peace and joy of the Holy Ghost. What’s the Holy Spirit say about it? To you personally? And would you know if He was talking to you, or is He even talking to you? If you’re not a child of God, saved, having accepted the salvation of Jesus Christ through the His blood on the cross, then you’re not hearing the Holy Ghost, because you’re not on speaking terms yet. God is not so concerned for what is on the menu for dinner as He is on what are the desires of our heart, and what testimony comes from those desires.

[18] For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. [19] Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. [20] For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence. [21] It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. [22] Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. [23] And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.

As with everything in life, this goes back to the intent of the heart. Why is alcohol important to you? (If it is) And if it is, do you drink it without regard for those who struggle with it. That you may cause an alcoholic who can’t control themselves and therefore may die in alcoholism, then it’s unquestionably sin. So for me, I would just sooner abstain.

The same is true with dieting. If I have a friend who’s trying to live healthy and I’m eating cheesecake in their face, it’s not different than the alcohol question. But God is not so much concerned about what we eat and drink as He is on who’s going to be setting around His table in Heaven. This is where our focus should be. If you’re wanting to orange alcohol and food, you’re heart’s not right to start with. Heaven is not about a pot luck dinner.

Heaven is not about who you’re married too

Luke 20:34-35 KJVS

[34] And Jesus answering said unto them, The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage: [35] But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage:

Scripture does say if you’re saved you should not marry the unsaved.

2 Corinthians 6:14 KJVS

[14] Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

So, if you’re saved, and your single, your future mate should be a bible believing child of God. Nothing else will be in the will of God. But for me, I, nor my husband were saved when we got married. So ye were equally yoked, unfortunately in sin. But then I got saved, and David was still lost. Should I have left him? No! The Bible says

1 Corinthians 7:12-15 KJVS

[12] But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. [13] And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him. [14] For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. [15] But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases : but God hath called us to peace.

There’s a common word used both with regard to alcohol, and marriage. Peace.

That’s where the rubber meets the road for me with both. I hate confrontation and arguing. H.A.T.E. It! It is a life of misery I have lived and have no desire to return to it. I’m not saying I haven’t argued since I got saved, but I’m saying that I have never sought it. I have witnessed both alcohol and the unsaved be the culprit in what would lead to a violent end. It’s terrifying, it put’s children and adults at risk, in fear and it breaks hearts. But Satan will give people justifications. He/She hurt me. They were wrong. They sinned. All of that may be true, but it doesn’t justify, an ugly battle instituted by the child of God. God only wants peace. And anything that comes between you and a peaceful day isn’t of God. Peace. Oh my stars, if Heaven were nothing but that, would it not be worth it all! But it’s going to be so much more.

Our relationships in Heaven will not be those of the earth, they’ll be better. We’ll be known as we are known, but with perfect love in our hearts for everyone and most importantly for God. Our lives will center around Him and His purpose. As it should now, but can’t because there’s too many worldly things in the way. Like man’s opinions.

And speaking of worldly relationships, I’ll touch on this only for moment and then move on. It’s settled in Heaven and it’s settled in my heart about the matter of homosexuality and the Bible. Does the Bible word “homosexuality appear in the Bible. No. Does it’s failure to be in there mean that the subject wasn’t addressed. No. Did Jesus personally say anything about it. Yes. Because every word in the Bible is His word, whether or not it’s highlighted in red.

1 Corinthians 6:9 KJVS

[9] Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,

Effeminate is defined as (womanly characteristics in a man). Clearly labeled as sin, not accepted of God.

1 Timothy 1:8-10 KJVS

[8] But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; [9] Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, [10] For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;

It once again is not said to be homosexuality. Bu who are they who are guilty of sodomy. (Acts against nature as it’s defined. Leviticus 18:22 the wrath of God was revealed from heaven in a very visible and remarkable manner against this abomination, by raining fire and brimstone upon Sodom and Gomorrah, and upon the cities of the plain, who defiled themselves in this way. Without getting graphic as to what “acts against nature” would be, let’s just say it’s not natural for men to be with men and women to be with women. The manner for which a man and woman come together is a perfect jig saw puzzle that’s not up for debate.

Romans 1:24-27,29 KJVS

[24] Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: [25] Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. [26] For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: [27] And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. [29] Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,

Let’s get back to Heaven not being a potluck dinner. I’m not sure what’s going to be on the menu our first day in Heaven. But I know in my heart that God’s got that dinner planned just like He planned creation and how it should work. And then mankind messed it up by putting our own ideas into the mix. Our opinions do not matter one iota to God, nor change His mind from the scripture He created as Law. Yes we’re under grace. But grace forgives sin, it doesn’t excuse it. Thank God for grace and peace… and pot luck dinners on this side of Heaven.

Posted in failure, Faith, Forgiveness, Grace, Life Inspiration

Seriously, How many times have I been here?

Written by talk2shari Published May 28, 2021May 28, 2021 Discussion Leave a Comment

Solomon, the wisest man to ever live, made mistakes. So I guess I’m in good company. Not that I am remotely as wise as he, I’m more often than not like the subject he’s preaching to; but I found that to be an interesting thought none the less this morning. That even the wisest man to ever live had days of stupidity. Seriously, a thousand women in his life? What would every make him think that was a good idea? One is more than sufficient for any man to have to contend with. Speaking of course for my husband, but its truth.

It is so easy for me to look back on my. 58 years, nearing 59, with deep regret and remorse for having lived much of my life at the fleshes will. When I read Proverbs 23 this morning, verse nine stung as it read: Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.

How many times I’ve despised wisdom. I’ve been down right resentful of people who gave me good solid advice, often times chocking it up to the notion that they felt themselves better than I. Always suffering from a lack of confidence or sometimes too much confidence in my own wisdom. That almost feels laughable this morning… but it’s not funny. Because it came with a price. There’s something about the book of Solomon that will cut to the very core of an individual. Oh yeah, that would be the Spirit of God.

He’s handier than a pocket on a shirt and every bit as close. I’m glad God does not grow tired, or I would wear Him out.

Along this 58 year path I’ve seen landmarks from other believers and nonbelievers alike who have walked a pathway much like mine.

[10] Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless: [11] For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.

Some of their landmarks were more like skid marks or a mound of dirt where they’d barely slid into home, narrowly escaping their own demise from poor decisions. Others had landmarks that were like pillars on the side of the road marking a successful mile. I’ve had several of both. And then there is the landmark where I’ve driven the stake deep into the ground to make sure it couldn’t be moved, like that of my faith in Jesus Christ. No matter how many times I’ve failed, or when I’ve had the rare success, my Lord and Savior has been there to give me what I stood in need of (a pat on the back or a swift kick in the seat of the pants), always and forever pleading my cause just like He does the fatherless.

Before salvation I had that as an excuse, no Spirit guiding me except the flesh. Now I am without excuse for failure, because I have the Holy Spirit with in me guiding me, I just often refuse to listen. But there is still God. Pleading my cause because I am redeemed by the blood of His Son.

I’d like to say that I have gotten wiser as these years have progressed, but I really can’t. Not when it comes to certain areas of my life. I’m still creating mounds of dirt on the side of the road where the Lord is dragging me forward. But where I have lived without regret has been in the role of “the Jesus Chick.” I love taking His word and applying it to my life in a way that it covers the scuff marks on my knees and allows me to walk with my head up high saying… “Yep, God told me that.”

[12] Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge. [16] Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things. [18] For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.

What great joy it brought my soul this morning to understand that God understands. He was fully aware of my human errors before they were committed. It did not stop Him from loving me and from expecting better of me. God expects great things from me! Now, whether or not I deliver, I do not know. But I’m going to keep trying and so should you. I’ll look for landmarks today that other’s have set, and perhaps try to set a few of my own. I hope to see you along the path or perhaps hear how your journey is going. God bless! ~ Shari