Category: Leadership

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

The Word of God is Finished, Not the Work

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Titus 1:10-16 KJVS

[10] For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: [11] Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake. [12] One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. [13] This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; [14] Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. [15] Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. [16] They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

Religion has always left a bad taste in my mouth, but lately, it’s come to the point where I feel like the whale that swallowed Jonah. No wonder he finally puked him out on the ground… one can only take so much. This is the emotion I felt as someone described the current state of their church. (I’m going to claim righteous indignation on this one). I think God’s okay with my ire, after all, it is the souls of men dangling over hell while a preacher looks on, not wanting to hurt their feelings by preaching what thus saith the Lord. 

That was not the case in the letter from Paul to Titus, though the result is much the same. The prophet of which Paul spoke of is said to be a man named Epimenides. The commentary of John Gill said that in his (Epimenides) poems stand the words here cited; the apostle rightly calls him “one of themselves”, since he was a Cretian by birth, of the city of Gnossus; it is reported of him, that being sent by his father to his sheep in the field, he by the way, at noon, turned aside into a cave, and slept fifty seven years and he is very properly called a “prophet” of their own; for in Crete Jupiter had his prophets, and he might be one of them: the priests among the Heathens were called prophets; so Baal’s priests are called the prophets of Baal, and the prophets of the groves, 1 Kings 18:19. 

Epimenides was a judaizing Christian who mixed the works of Old Testament law with the grace of God. Paul warned Titus of the likes of men such as him and told him to call them out, (vs. 13). Would to God that this were the case today. But instead we sit idly by and watch as religious nonsense goes from one extreme to the other. 

I love encouraging people in the word of God, and the Bible certainly tells us to exhort one another. There is plenty of things to be exhorted by in the word of God, it is good news! But today as I focus my mind on being doctrinely sound, trying to be a responsible child of God, frustration mounts and I want to call out lying, evil beasts and slow bellies which is how I view anyone who is in a position of authority in a church (such as a Pastor), who stands before a congregation of God’s people with out regard or a feeling of responsibility or accountability for their souls and fails to tell them how to be saved. To the outside world they’re “good” people. But in reality they are a tool of Satan himself.

Did that word encourage you? I doubt it. But let it be for you, as it is for me this morning; a reminder that we too will stand before God accountable for what we’ve done with the word of God. Not just the Preacher. I’ve been scattered and lack with my blog because I’ve been tired and weary with life. That’s not an excuse, it’s just a fact. So as I read Paul’s charge to Titus, I couldn’t help but wonder what he would say to me as I debate what my role is in the church, and who is it that is coming up behind me? Who are the modern Titus’, Timothy’s, Aquila’s and Priscilla’s? The word of God is finished, but not the work. The names are now ours, and God is calling us out. That is a word of encouragement! 

If you run into a lying, evil beast of a slow belly, tell them what Jesus has done in your life. Perhaps, through your words they’ll desire to know the truth about God.

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

Jesus Knows Where You Are

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Why is it that the children of God never learn? Again and again we go through life faithing and failing. Yes, I know faithing is not a word, but hey, the world makes up new words every day, why not us? One day we’ll have mountain faith, and the next day it wouldn’t take up the corner inside a mustard seed. Or do I speak of myself alone? I’m certainly in that boat! Anytime I need a reminder of faith and failure I almost inevitably go to a passage about my friend Peter. I kind of feel sorry for the guy! He is so often preached on for his examples of failures, but the man lead thousand to the Lord! Oh to be a Simon Peter!

But the scripture that caught my eye this morning was another of Peter’s failures. Literally caught with his pants down in a boat of backslidden boys. 

John 21:1-14 KJVS

John 21:1-4 KJVS
[1] After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself. [2] There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples. [3] Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing. [4] But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus.

Distance Learning:

Perhaps it was the distance between the boat and land, or perhaps their minds were not in a place that caused them to recognize the Lord; but none the less, they didn’t know it was Jesus. That’s what happens when you drift further and further away from God. Trust me, I speak as a woman of experience. I allow the world to drag me down spiritually until I’m feeling like an empty gum wrapper and of no use to anyone, before I finally realize it’s because I’ve been drifting toward them, not toward Christ. 

Part of the reason my mind has been scattered of late is the fact (without regret) that my grandchildren need me more. They are in remote learning because of the virus again and I am the shuttle between them and getting things done while their parents are at work. Remote… Distance learning. I’ll just tell you, it doesn’t work for public school children. It gives me great respect for home schoolers. It does not give me love for the public education institution because they’re getting paid to do a job they’re not doing, whether by circumstance or not. And the children are suffering. They are too far away from the teachers and it doesn’t work.

A lesson that could be learned by the child of God. If we’re not spending time with the Master, we are ripe for the picking of an angry world that wants to have us for lunch. 

Distracted Leadership

[5] Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No. [6] And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes. [7] Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher’s coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.

I’m not sure why Peter was naked, but that had to have been one of those “Oh crap” moments in his life when he realized he’d just been busted by the Lord. Oh my stars, how I can relate. Not that I’ve been naked in a boat, nobody needs that image! But I’ve certainly been away from the Lord and then suddenly realized that He knew where I was at all along. He constantly rings the dinner bell for His children. Come and dine, come and dine… can you hear Him saying that to us? I sure can. All He wants to do is spend time with us and we continually struggle between the distractions of the world’s calling and His. I am dinging my own bell this morning! 

Delivered Lunch

What an amazing Lord we serve! He knew Peter was in the boat naked, and he knew that it was Peter’s idea to take everyone fishing rather than to be doing the work of the Lord. And yet, there is the Lord, fixing lunch on the bank of the sea. He does the same for us. I feel as though I’ve just had a full course meal as I read His word and devour it like honey. My time with Him is always sweetness to the soul and blessing in abundance, just as it was to the disciples.

[8] And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes. [9] As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread. [10] Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught. [11] Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three: and for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken. [12] Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord. [13] Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise. [14] This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.

Nobody questioned the delivery guy. They knew it was the Lord! This was the third time they’d seen Him alive after they’d seen Him crucified. Would not that be shock and awe every time? I can’t imagine getting over it, and I’d like to say I can’t imagine forgetting it, and yet, I do. I know the power of the resurrection because I’ve felt it in my life again and again and again. And yet I will fall away from the Lord the same number of times. Here is the Lord, on the bank preparing lunch for His friends who are neglecting their ministry and have gone fishing. Except their not catching anything. Can I just remind myself right now that there will be fishes in the net of a child of God away from the Lord and not giving due diligence to the ministry the Lord has entrusted us with. Amen? Amen Shari.

A few verses later, we hear the Lord ask Peter:

[15] So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

Lovest thou me, Shari? I hear it this morning. 

Lovest thou me reader? Can you hear Him?

It’s time to get busy…

Posted in Christian, Faith, Family, Leadership, Life Inspiration

When Controversy Rears it’s Ugly Head

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I am one who does shy away from unnecessary confrontation, (unnecessary is a relative term dependent on my mood of course) but I am not one to shy away from controversy and differing opinions, especially when it is something that I feel convicted over.  My absence over the last week from the Jesus Chick site, FGGAM.org and social media has been because of a busy life of grand parenting, parenting, working, ministering and exhaustion. I’m back on today because I felt the need speak out on the current state of our country, state and county. All of which, I am a proud card carrying member. I love America. Not what she has become because of idiot, evil,  spineless politicians. I love the State of West Virginia, not the fact that we are giving away money that could be used for programs all across our state rather than paying people to take a vaccine. That’s beyond ridiculous. I love living in Calhoun County, no other place I’d rather be, however, it ain’t utopia. This is where God called me to minister. I minister to the young, old and in between because I am somewhere in between. I look for opportunities to help people and encourage people, but I am often met with more discouragement in return. Which is where I’ve been of late. 

This is is where controversy rears it’s ugly head. 

I adore my grandchildren. And they in kind adore me. There is no controversy there. I love the time that I get to spend with them, but I don’t want to have spend my time teaching them because they’ve been quarantined. I might not mind so much if it didn’t bring out the fact that the school system is once again failing my grandchildren and calling it their fault. As I helped one grandchild on Monday and Tuesday do a full days schoolwork in 20 minutes, I questioned why there wasn’t more. They didn’t know. But they were glad they were done. And why wouldn’t they have been? They’re children. Homework isn’t fun. This is America, this is West Virginia, This is Calhoun county. We’re raising a country of low expectations, and I’m calling the “educators” out. You are funded by my tax dollars. You consistently scream you are underpaid and under appreciated. I speak collectively of course. Don’t bring that topic up to me without an answer as to why my grandchild can do what you supposedly teach them in 6 hours in 20 minutes. 

Now that that controversial topic is laid on the table. Let’s talk about the vaccine. For which I’ve had. But I by no means think that it is my responsibility to tell anyone that they too should have it. Nobody in the medical field can guarantee the safety of the recipient. But I’ll just add this, many of the same people who are delegating that you have to put a vaccine in your body to keep them safe, are the same pro-abortion people that say they have the right to kill a child inside their body who is alive and has the potential to be a wonderful person. Don’t bring up that topic unless you can look me in the eye and say a child’s life isn’t important.  

Now for my favorite side of the aforementioned topics: What sayeth the Lord? And why did He make this my business as the Jesus Chick? 

When it comes to wisdom, God used Solomon to write the books of wisdom. Not because Solomon himself was wise, but because he was humble, God made him to be wise. I myself am humble… but God doesn’t trust me with great earthly wisdom, He knows I’d blow stuff up. And then I’d feel bad about it. Because that’s who I am. But not the world of today. No…. We kill people, those in Afghanistan and those in the womb without regret or apology. And through Solomon God addressed wisdom and stupidity. 

Don’t Get Mad too Fast, take it Slow

Ecclesiastes 7:9-23 KJVS

[9] Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools. [10] Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not enquire wisely concerning this.

The subtitle is the Bible according to Shari. But it’s how I broke down verses nine and 10 to my understanding. There is no need to look back because every day is a new day and every day most of us are doing the best we can. Except the stupid people. Those for which were put into office by people with poor judgement. But regardless, we’ve got to move forward. Anger seldom creates anything but division. But wisdom spoken with the foundation of truth without an agenda could fix a multitude of sins from the past days. How we handled Afghanistan, the Vaccine, and the School System could be overcome by the words, “I made a mistake”  by some adults acting like children, and some adults who need imprisoned. 

Don’t Get too Big for Your Britches

 [11] Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit to them that see the sun. [12] For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it. [13] Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight, which he hath made crooked? [14] In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after him. 

There is nothing in this world that God can’t make, or make over. But because of mans arrogance and vanity God allows us to make our bed and lie in it. And sometimes, many of us have to lie in a bed made by somebody else. Life is full of struggles for me. Some that I created and some that others created. But God allows me to calm and center myself on the fact that He has the final say. And that the arrogance of this world will one day meet the King of Control. Glory!  

Don’t Assume God’s Children are Without Issues

[15] All things have I seen in the days of my vanity: there is a just man that perisheth in his righteousness, and there is a wicked man that prolongeth his life in his wickedness. [16] Be not righteous over much; neither make thyself over wise: why shouldest thou destroy thyself? [17] Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time? [18] It is good that thou shouldest take hold of this; yea, also from this withdraw not thine hand: for he that feareth God shall come forth of them all. [19] Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city. [20] For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not. [21] Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee: [22] For oftentimes also thine own heart knoweth that thou thyself likewise hast cursed others. [23] All this have I proved by wisdom: I said, I will be wise; but it was far from me.

Solomon didn’t give those warnings to waste his breath. Solomon was the wisest of the wise and he had 1000 women in his life. If the wisest of the wise was dumb enough to do that, surely we are far from above mistakes. I’m not going to throw rocks at Joe Biden. I won’t say I wouldn’t like to. I’m not going to throw rocks at the Governor of the State of West Virginia, I might hit Baby Dog. I’m not going to throw rocks at the Calhoun County Board of Education, although I could because they’re a mile from my house. But I am not going to be silent as stupidity reigns. God gave me a mouth and He gave me a platform. And He gave me the passion to take care of my people and defend the gifts I’ve been given. I pray you too will be vocal and defend the innocent that is under attack both far and near to our hearts. Hold leadership accountable. It’s biblical.

Posted in Christian, Health, Humor, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Political

I’m Not the Keeper of Your Life

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Oh man! Do we live in a judgmental society. I had to use “oh man,” in the context for which I did, because Paul used it in Romans 2:1 a couple of times, and totally made me snicker as I read it; knowing that Paul didn’t know the context for which we would speak that today, but God certainly did. Did it ever occur to you that nothing ever occurred to God? Hey, don’t judge me for my warped humor; which just so happens to be todays thought on my heart. The judgement, not the humor.

I listened as someone this week spewed judgement about someone else without regard to their  own failures in life. They didn’t give their failures any thought because they believe their failures to be excusable. But if they understood the word of God… hey  lets get real, if any of us put the word of God into action as it’s intended and applied it to our lives, how often would our lips be zipped?!  God’s righteousness will not allow anyone to be excused for judging others. He is righteous. We are far, far from it. 

God’s not Snarky, but I am

 Romans 2:1-11 KJVS

 [1] Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. [2] But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things. [3] And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? 

When I read verse 2, I read it as if God had a snarky attitude. Of course Paul wrote the words of the Lord, so maybe Paul did! To country quote what Paul is saying, “O man,you’re inexcusable! You’re judging people when you do the same or worse. But you are sure that the judgement of God is going to go way worse for them. O man! You think you’re going to escape judgment, think again. 

That’s what it would have said if this were the Bible according to Shari. But it’s not, so Paul’s writing is much more eloquent. And it’s what God told him to say, so there’s that.

The judging that’s on my mind and heart this morning is that of the current state of health in America. Vaccine or no vaccine, mask or no mask, stay home or go out, home school or public school? It’s ridiculous (yes I’m judging) from my perspective. I seldom think I have the right to infringe my beliefs upon others. Note I said seldom, not that I don’t ever do it. But knowing that God did not make me the keeper of another man’s life, I do not ever feel I have the right to insist that he or she follow my conviction. If i feared for my life, I’d stay home. I don’t. So I’m going to work, church or where ever I desire because I’m not living my life in the fear that “I feel” media has put into the minds of America. What is most concerning to me is that Christians don’t consider it judging to tell another person they shouldn’t feel the way they do. It’s considered right or left thinking rather than right or wrong thinking. Oh yeah, I went there.

I went there because a fellow Christian went there with me last week when they insinuated I shouldn’t involve politics in my Christian teaching. For the record, I name the sin not the political party and they applied it to the party, not me. They caused me to question whether or not I should speak out on certain sins that are apart of our current political climate and debates. The Apostle Paul called out the sins of the day, (which happen to still be active sins). He gave the Romans, Corinthians, Philippians and others a message that they could apply to the current events and struggles they were facing. Should that not be how we minister today? 

When Paul spoke on judging others, obviously it was an issue. It’s still an issue. But what’s more of an issue is the fact that we’re worried about whether or not someone has the vaccine inside their body and not Jesus. I want to ask anyone who’s complained about someone not wearing a mask, or not taking the vaccine,  “When is the last time you ask someone about the condition of their soul?” If you call yourself a Christian and you are more concerned about their vaccine status than you are if they’re going to Hell. Zip it. 

As is every message I bring, that “zip it” was a reminder for me too. I do not care if you’re vaccinated or if you wear a mask. But sometimes I care a little too much that you care. Sometimes I forget that fear is a real monster that’s not hiding under the bed. It’s living out in the open in Washington DC. And people feel what they feel and I should acknowledge that and not make light of it. So, I’ll believe your fearfulness. But please, listen to my love for your soul. 

Posted in Leadership, Life Inspiration, Word of God

The Undeniable Untruth

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I’m sure I’m dating myself with the image of soda pop bottles that I well remember saving up and returning for a deposit of 3 cents each, possibly 10 cents each by the time they stopped collecting them and went to plastic. The “Uncola” advertisements began running in 1968 for the 7-Up brand; though I’ve never really been a 7-Up fan, unless it was in a punch bowl with sherbet, pineapple juice and HC fruit punch, but that probably doesn’t count. UnCola was a great description because it wasn’t anything like Cola! Just like the garbage the world is feeding us today isn’t anything like the truth. 

A few sweet tidbits to chew on today: 

God’s righteousness won’t be perverted by the world no matter how hard they try.

You can fabricate a lie but you cannot fabricate or disprove genuine truth. It either is or it ain’t.

The UnAshamed

Romans 1:16-32 KJVS

[16] For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. [17] For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

There’s plenty in my life that I could be ashamed of, but the gospel isn’t one of them. In it is the power of salvation! Glorrraaay! That should put a shout on you if you’re a child of God. Every time I read the word of God my soul starts stirring inside. I love that feeling. But how do you explain that to the lost? It should be evidenced in your life, but too often people aren’t watching you be a successful saint, but rather they hone in your sucky sinful side. I am aware. But that doesn’t stop me from proclaiming the gospel because it is the gospel that lead me to His saving grace. Most people love a good life application and the scriptures are a whole book of life applications. Christ used people of the day as illustration, so should we not? I love telling about people in my life who have won victory over things in their lives that have taken many a good man or woman down. Their stories have helped me to fight my own demons. I’ve also draw strength from telling my own stories and reminiscing about the victory of serving such a God who hears your cry.

The Unrighteous and The Ungodly

[18] For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

And there it is: the untruth. Society is denying the truths of God. they can’t disprove it, they don’t even attempt that. They simply deny it again and again and scream the lie as loud as they can again and again, until the world hears it enough and then says, “Oh yeah, that must be true.” They did it with Darwinism until the educated became idiots through education. Preach!!! All you have to do is throw a few letters behind someone’s name and suddenly they have credibility. My own insecurities used to cause me to clam up in front of well educated people until I realized that the Devil was using that to squelch the truth. 

I worked with a PHD fella once that ask me where I got the information that homosexuality was a sin. I opened my bible and  read him Romans 1:26-27. His only response was, “Oh.” He didn’t even question it. The problem with most educated people is they’ve been educated by biblically uneducated people. They don’t know what the Bible says because they’ve never bothered to read it, rather they’re believing the lie that it is an antiquated book of no modern value.

The very fact that we have allowed Critical Race Theory (CRT) to come as far as it has into the public school system proves the ignorance of educated people. While they suggest and rant about discrimination among Christians toward people because of their sexual preference going against scriptural principles, the same “educated” people are embracing an ideology that is meant to demean and divide our nation. Take twelve minutes and seventeen seconds and listen to the YouTube link below of a teacher in California fighting CRT coming into their schools 6 months ago. And before you think: 1. It’s California. And 2. It’s not here yet. You’d be wrong. It’s already made it’s way into Calhoun County, West Virginia public schools now. I was told that first hand by a member of the faculty. 

The Unexcused

While their education may get them positional living on earth, it may just get them kicked out of Heaven. 

[19] Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. [20] For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: [21] Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. [22] Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, [23] And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. [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. [28] And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; [29] Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, [30] Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, [31] Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: [32] Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

Tell me where there is anything that can be misunderstood about homosexuality or the many other behaviors of the educated and morally bankrupt leaders in our country. There may be a few “big words” in that text, but there’s enough little ones that even a child could figure it out.  They don’t know the truth because they ignore the truth. But God is clear that He’s not ignoring their behavior. 

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, failure, Grace, Leadership, Life Inspiration

When God Cracks You Like an Egg

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Tent meeting night number two, and the faucets inside my eyes refused to shut off. I truthfully didn’t try. Tears like that had been a long time coming and I knew I needed it. Pastor Alfred Hickman had started the water works on Monday when he preached the message “It’s your Move.” I cried through the music of Brother David Harney (which was amazing) and right through the message which spoke directly to my soul, knowing that I had to get myself out of this place of frustration I was in. Why am I frustrated? Because the world was taking it’s toll on my ministries and I felt powerless against it. I’ve been smiling and saying “I’m fine” for months when that was far from the truth. I fully believe that this is why we have revival. Because it’s easy to say I’m fine, until God cracks you open like an egg and all your insides gush out. 

The word of God is indeed sharper than a two edged sword…

Hebrews 4:12 KJVS

[12] For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

I’ve watched that verse play out the past two days. 

Cut to the Quick

Have you ever done that when manicuring your nails. 😣 Owch! It’s even worse when you play guitar and you do it on your chording hand. While we think the word quick as generally speaking of something fast, in this context it’s speaking of “to make alive!” The word of God stirs your soul and brings to the surface things that are deeply rooted. It is painful, because that’s what the world does, it bury’s itself in you and wraps itself around every facet of your life. For me the world had rooted itself into my children, grandchildren, husband, Mother, family, the teen ministry and many of the people of God that I know.  I felt as if I was making little to no impact anywhere. These people are my heart. I love them more than anyone of them know and seeing the world taking a hold of them definitely cuts to the quick.

Quick to Decide

Part of my issue, (believe me when I say I have many issues) but part of my issue is defined in the very first verse I claimed as a life verse. 

2 Corinthians 2:1-2 KJVS

[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?

I’ve always been determined to leave people better than I found them. I thought it better not to let them know I had struggles. But what ended up happening is I’ve adopted their struggles as my own. And they are many. So many in fact that I’ve collapsed under the weight. I’m sure you’re not shocked. But I was! I thought that I could handle anything.Yes, I know. Foolish mortal. God never asked me to take on the world. But I felt that it was my job as His child. I needed to fix what was broken but I was powerless against any of it. Just like the egg, only the Creator can repair that kind of damage. When Pastor Alfred preached, “It’s your move” Monday night, I thought maybe my move is to get out of God’s way and step out of the ministry for a while. I’ve only felt this way one other time since I’ve been saved. And it was a battle. A battle to where I literally held onto my seat in the church because Satan had told me to start moving toward the door. For all you backseat Baptists, maybe this is for you. Don’t get too close the door. When I say I hung onto my seat, I mean that literally. I have sat front row, isle seat for 25 years. If anyone wants that seat, that’s fine, I’ll find another front row seat or possibly 2nd row; but I’m not moving far, because Satan wants me out of the church. And before you say that that’s an arrogant statement, if he doesn’t want you out of the church, you’re not doing enough. Yeah… this is revival week. 

I was a little too quick to decide it was time to get out of the ministry.

Decide to Follow

Night two, and Preacher Brian Evans stirred my heart like a scrambled egg. I wept the entire service. His message title was “Just Keep Grinding.” Preached from Luke 1 and the story of Elisabeth and Zachariah and their unfruitful times that became fruitful. His points were this: 

  1. Unfruitful and broken
  2. Faultless but trusting God (not perfect, but doing their best)
  3. Faithful to God
  4. Fulfilling God’s work

He might as well have titled it the life of Shari. Before you think that I’ve completely lost it to think a man preached a sermon just for me. He didn’t, there were others touched just as deeply by his message. But it’s whats amazing about the Word of God; one message can touch every life in the building in a different way. But for a couple of us, we were both leaning the same direction, out the ministry door. But his message to just keep grinding, even on the rough days when you think there’s no hope, just stand your ground on the spot God gave you to stand on. For Zacharias it was the temple of God. Even when God did not provide them a child, year after year, decade after decade, and yet it says 

Luke 1:[8] And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest’s office before God in the order of his course, [9] According to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.

And so he did, year after year, decade after decade… He followed God’s design, regardless of how he felt. Even if he may have wanted to throw his hands up in the air and walk away, he did not. He stayed the course. Oh Lord Jesus! How sorry I was for not wanting to stay the course. How dare I say that I am suffering when I look at the examples set before me in the word of God. Every disciple persecuted, everyone (save John) killed for the cause of Christ. Zachariah and Elisabeth’s long awaited son was beheaded and yet these people stayed the course. 

Am I struggling? You betcha! Am I gonna quit? No. God has plan and I’ll continue to follow. If you’re on the edge of a decision like mine, stay the course dear friend, stay the course!

Posted in Christian, Evangelism, failure, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Life's Failures

It’s Not Just a Problem with the World

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on It’s Not Just a Problem with the World

There are times I read the word with such conviction of the heart. It pierces my soul as I know the failure of Shari. Not the failure of mankind. That, I have very little control over. But myself… that’s another story entirely. And sometimes that story needs a brown wrapper. Okay… I may have exaggerated that point – no brown rappers for me, but sin is sin, whether it comes in a brown paper bag from a convenience store, or something else thats takes your heart away from God’s purpose.

The word of God has been washing my soul this morning and cleaning up the inward woman that has a tendency to stray into unhealthy spaces. Not the brown paper bag spaces, but perhaps my craft room, video game or social media. Plunging my mind down a rabbit hole of time that cannot be regained and has nothing of value to show… well maybe not “nothing” but for certain very little. Even my craft room has become a place of discouragement lately with unfinished or failed projects that allow evil thoughts lurking in the recesses of my mind to poke their heads out and whisper “failure” into my mind. And rather than calling them the liar they are, I simply respond with “you’re right,” knowing that I’ve just spent hours doing nothing productive for the Kingdom. And I don’t mean t drag you down this tunnel of fun, but I think it’s a question we need to ask ourselves daily.  “Did I impact this world for Christ?”

James 1:21-27 KJVS

No Brown Bag Living 

[21] Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. [22] But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

I’m not talking about a sack lunch either, but rather the brown bag of disguise we call denial that we have an issue with our spiritual self. The things we’re not so proud of and we’d certainly not boast to the Pastor about. But on Sunday we wear the Gucci bag of religion that makes us one of the pretty people, but then before we get home from church, or maybe in church, our mind starts to drift into paper bag space. 

I’m ashamed of the time I’ve spent recently on mindless games and videos. It is so easy for me to go there to seek refuge from weariness and frustration.  The video’s make me laugh or ponder, and the games take me into an world of illusion that takes my mind off the cares of the world. Neither of those things are bad really, until I fail to do the missions that God has put before me because I’d rather not deal with life. I’m not kidding. That’s how I roll. Maybe you’re rolling with me. I hope you’re not, but if you are, give this girl some love today and let m know I’m not alone, and that perhaps this blog encouraged your spirit today too. 

No Brainless Laboring 

[23] For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: [24] For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. [25] But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

How does one labor brainlessly? Basically not thinking about the effect of what you’re doing in life. I love it when my fine wispy hair is newly cut and styled and my make up covers up the blemishes on my face as I get ready for the day. But not long into the day the make up is wearing thin, my hair is droopy and the real Shari shines through. Or maybe “shine” isn’t the appropriate word. It could just as well be the Shari Charade. The last time I looked into the mirror it was great, but now what I’m unaware of is the effect the day has had on me.  That’s what happens when we go about our days without taking the time to reexamine our motives and the intents of the heart through the word of God. Why am I doing what I’m doing? And what purpose is it serving. Scripture really serves as a mirror to the soul. When I examined mine I could see a little brainless laboring and a lot of brainless living. I was doing very little that was going to have an effect on eternity. 

No Brandishing Lips

[26] If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain. [27] Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.

Brown bag living and brainless laboring is bad enough, but all talk and no action is the worst. People look at our lives and the pretty images we display but do they see us doing something in the world for the cause of Christ, or just talking about it? I know that what I do on my job in the secular world helps to provide safe drinking water to our community. But what am I doing with the water of the word to keep my people safe? And how bold am I about it. 

Yesterday I clinched my lips shut when my conversation with someone made them grimace.  I stifled my opinion to prevent their agonizing over what should have been a shared moral standing as children of God. But unfortunately it wasn’t. The reason it wasn’t is because this world has caused most Christians to stop looking in the mirror but rather they’re looking out at the world for a moral compass. FYI, the moral compass of the world points south. But let me put a good dose of self reality on it: even though my moral compass was not pointing south, it wasn’t pointing north either. I was not nearly well versed enough to defend my opinion if the opportunity had arisen, and the fact I didn’t means I’m somewhat east or west.  Thats the dangerous reality of me,  I often times knows just enough to be dangerous. As a Christian I need to know the details as to why my compass points north.

So there you have it. Brown bag living, brainless laboring and brandishing lips are not just a problem of the world.  

Posted in Christian, Faith, Family, Leadership

Fact or Fake?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Fact or Fake?



It’s always my goal to encourage. Even when giving not so good news from a scriptural perspective. We always need the truth, but as in everything in life, we need balanced truth. If I fed you an entire diet of healthy lettuce, you’d be no doubt unhealthy without other food groups. And you’d spend most of your life in the bathroom, just sayin’. That’s kind of how I feel sometimes when I continually feed myself with news. It’s seldom ever good and it usually leaves me feeling like crap. Certainly not inspired. But I need reality in my life. I need to understand what’s going on in the world around me. I just don’t need to fall apart because I feel like the world is going down the tubes. 

Psalm 12 is a good dose of reality coupled with truthful encouragement of end times. According to commentary, “…some Jewish writers understand it of the times of the Messiah; and the Syriac version entitles the psalm,”an accusation of the wicked, and a prophecy concerning the coming of the Messiah.” I’m not too deep a thinker, but I certain see it. And it excites me!  Within this Psalm is some painful truth about where we are in society and then the Psalmist gives us the hope of Christ, who makes everything better. This Psalm has what we need in life, perfect balance. Four verses of painful truth, and four verses of hope in truth.

Who is Lord over us?

Psalm 12:1-8 KJVS

[1] Help, Lord ; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men. [2] They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak. [3] The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things: [4] Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail; our lips are our own: who is lord over us?

Wow! Does that ever sound like what we’re hearing from the world today. In my 25 years of salvation I have never seen such a ‘weak spined’ church as now. It turns out “spined” is not a word, but I figure if the world can make up new genders, I can make up new words; and mine will do far less damage. But the church (collectively) has lost it’s back bone when they embrace what scripture clearly defines as sin. And it’s not just the sin of homosexuality that they’ve accepted, it’s he putrid intent of the agenda that most people are not aware of because they don’t seek news from a truthful source. For the record, if you’re watching any mainstream news, it’s not the truth. Whether or not you hear the term “Black Lives Matters,” they are fueling the fire of main stream media to push the “Critical Race Theory” into our public schools. By the way, I spoke with a teacher this week that said it had already made it’s way into Calhoun County. 

If you’re unfamiliar with Critical Race Theory, (CRT) you really need to do your homework. Parents of every color, across the country are attending school board meetings to request the curriculum either be taken out of already instituted programs, or never make it’s way in. CRT influences children of different races to hate each other. It touts that white people are born evil and should live a life of apology for who God created them to be. One black father stated that “the curriculum basically teaches his daughter to hate her white mother.” Is it that simple of an issue. No this movement goes far deeper and far scarier. 

Critical race theory is an offshoot of critical theory, the brainchild of the Frankfurt School, a group of 20th-century Marxists associated with the Institute for Social Research. (Fun fact: the founder of the Institute for Social Research wanted it to be named the Institut fur Marxismus, which translates to the “Institute for Marxism.” That name was scrapped for fear it would alienate the public.)

Why do I bring this up? Because the church should not plead ignorance at the cost of our children. We need to seek the truth and stand on the side of Christ. And this is only one of many truthful topics in society today that the church is either unaware of or in support of. So when the Psalmist asks “who is Lord over us?” I have to wonder? It is not Christ that would create an atmosphere of division among His people. It is no wonder that Marxism, BLM and this multi gender, self promoting identification is thriving. Because the church has bought the lie that we can’t be involved in public education. Yes we can. We may not be able to teach and preach, but we can protect our children from harm. 

Outside of the school system, where we have our say, we can teach and preach the truth to our children and prepare them to be ready for the Lord’s return. 

Jesus is Lord!

.

[5] For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the Lord ; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him. [6] The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. [7] Thou shalt keep them, O Lord, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever. [8] The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted.

Jesus will arise and call His church home and the pride and arrogance of this world will cease in that day. His church, those who have accepted His work on the cross as payment for the sins of everyone in this world. The wise of this world call the faith of a child of God foolishness, they do puff at the opportunity.  But God’s word is truth! Pure and undefiled by this world, we have the word of God at our fingertips to encourage us on days then the world drags us down. The Apostle Paul followed right along with this theory (a good theory by the way).

1 Corinthians 1:18 KJVS

[18] For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

We have the power of God within us to fight the wickedness of this world. We forget that more often than we capitalize on the fact.  

My information regarding critical race theory comes from my own knowledge through conservative media outlets such as the blaze. The information I used for this blog post came from the following link if you’d like to check it out!

https://www.newsweek.com/critical-race-theory-repackaged-marxism-opinion-1599557
Posted in Christian, Eternity, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Political, Word of God

The Song of 2021

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Song of 2021

As I searched the scripture for inspiration for the day, my mind was drawn to this past weekend’s sermons and Sunday School lessons I heard. My mind was scattered over the weekend in weariness from activities that had taken a tole on me both physically and spiritually.  Business is not always my friend. Though it keeps my mind busy and off of the troubles of the day, it drains me of energy and focus.  I need focus. And so I turn to the word of God which never fails to reign in my mind. 

Psalm 9 commentaries seem to be decision about the nature of this Psalm and even it’s title. One says it is about the death of Goliath, another says of the death of Saul, there’s disagreement about the name Muthlabben, and to it’s meaning or to who it is spoken. I’m not so much concerned about any of that. God will let me know the truth of that matter when I get to Heaven. But the final paragraph of commentary to the purpose of the writing of Psalm 9 says what my soul needed to hear: “That this psalm, according to R. Sol Jarchi, belongs to the time to come, to the days of the Messiah, and the future redemption by him.” 

Amen! Even so, come Lord Jesus. But what truly captured my attention was the way this Psalm aligned with the woes of 2021. 

My Rights and My Cause

That’s what it’s all about, is it not? This world has gone absolutely mad with self promotion and entitlement. Even children of God are falling into the theories of this world that what we believe is more important than God. It’s not by happenstance that PRIDE is the name of their organization because that it in a nutshell. They’re ignoring the humbleness required to be a child of the King for the prideful sake of being a queen. Good night a mighty, that’s good even if I did write it. That should be on a tee shirt somewhere. I’m not going to wear it because I don’t want shot, but I’ll say it!  Because it’s truth. Look at the first verses of Psalm 9:

To the chief Musician, upon Muthlabben, a A Psalm of David.

Psalm 9:1-20 KJVS

[1] I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works. [2] I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High. [3] When mine enemies are turned back, they shall fall and perish at thy presence. [4] For thou hast maintained my right and my cause; thou satest in the throne judging right.

If our hearts are in order, our rights and our cause are in the hands of God and not to be fretted over. We’re not to worry what man thinks, we’re to concern ourselves with the word of God which will align us with Him. And in so doing He will take care of the enemy.

Who is the enemy? Anyone who’s turned their back on God. That should scare some folks, because the word says they will fall and they will perish at His presence. The people of this world can have all the pride they want while they’re in this world, but when it’s finished, and their standing before God, they will fall and they will perish.  Our being spared should cause every child of God to praise Him. 

My Memorials and My City

[5] Thou hast rebuked the heathen, thou hast destroyed the wicked, thou hast put out their name for ever and ever. [6] O thou enemy, destructions are come to a perpetual end: and thou hast destroyed cities; their memorial is perished with them.

The political left has destroyed any memorial they could get their hands on that had to do with history. It is there intent to rewrite history so that it will agree with their narrative of conversations and they can write God out of America. Be not deceived. Satan has a plan, and the history of Christianity is not a welcome part. Satan doesn’t care about the color of anyone’s skin, he cares about the color of the 🩸 blood of Christ. He wants it gone, which is leading us toward the antichrist and his agenda. Just as history cannot be rewritten neither can our future when it comes to end time events; there is a plan. We can change individual lives, but we cannot change what is written in the word of God. 

My Refuge in times of Trouble

 [7] But the Lord shall endure for ever: he hath prepared his throne for judgment. [8] And he shall judge the world in righteousness, he shall minister judgment to the people in uprightness. [9] The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. [10] And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee. [11] Sing praises to the Lord, which dwelleth in Zion: declare among the people his doings.

This Psalm shocked me at how it has followed the woes of 2021. Every single thing we’ve been facing, God has a plan for our peace in the midst of this mess. I love ❤️ it!

Oppression is certainly the hot topic word of the day! Everybody is oppressed. Their little feelings are hurt, they’ve been offended and they’re crying like toddlers at a candy counter. It’s pathetic. These people have no sense of oppression. They’re not oppressed, their spoiled. We have foreign countries literally waving our American flag as a symbol of freedom, while Americans are destroying it because they have the freedom to do it. Oh yeah, that’ll preach. But do you know what matters most dear child of God? The Lord is still on the throne! I cannot help but feel sorrow for this spoiled generation that doesn’t realize what truth and righteousness is. But I thank God that the truly oppressed, and those of us who seek refuge from the storms around us have full understanding of what God offers us through the salvation of Jesus Christ. 

My God and My Lord!

 [12] When he maketh inquisition for blood, he remembereth them: he forgetteth not the cry of the humble. [13] Have mercy upon me, O Lord ; consider my trouble which I suffer of them that hate me, thou that liftest me up from the gates of death: [14] That I may shew forth all thy praise in the gates of the daughter of Zion: I will rejoice in thy salvation. [15] The heathen are sunk down in the pit that they made: in the net which they hid is their own foot taken. [16] The Lord is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah. [17] The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God. [18] For the needy shall not alway be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever. [19] Arise, O Lord ; let not man prevail: let the heathen be judged in thy sight. [20] Put them in fear, O Lord : that the nations may know themselves to be but men. Selah.

We are but men. We have no power over the earth.  It is in the hands of the principalities of the air and the demonic forces are having the time of their lives but not forever, hallelujah! But in the mean time they seek the blood of the saints knowing that the more they can destroy those who share the gospel of peace, the fewer people who will hear and be saved. Satan’s not concerned with the heathen unless he can use them as tools of destroying the saved. But child of God turn your eyes toward Heaven because the “poor shall not perish for ever.” Jesus is coming back, it’s just on His time table, not ours. We must realize that we are “but men,” and there is only so much we’re capable of doing on this earth without God’s intervention. So keep praying, keep praising and keep professing the word of God to everyone you can. And by all means keep believing that just like 2020 came to an end, so will 2021, and so will this earth.  Our God reigns. 

Posted in Eternity, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration

How to Shut up the Stupid People

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on How to Shut up the Stupid People

An Independence Day Message

Let’s be frank. There’s too many stupid people to shut them all up. But there’s a biblical way that may work on a few in your neighborhood. It’s found in the book of 1 Peter where he speaks to the redeemed of Christ, (that’s us) reminding us that we should be more like the nature of God than the nature of man. We should be holy and righteous in our daily walk so that the unsaved world can see the light of Christ. 

Peter doesn’t say it will be easy. He was the apostle crucified upside down. He quite obviously was willing to put his money where his mouth was. Where is there faith any where close today?And where is there committed Christian Americans who are willing to walk for Christ in honor of the temporary country they’ve been given by God. There is such a lack of respect in America right now that it’s more popular to be anti-American than patriotic. And within the church it is getting more  popular to take the holiness and righteousness out of the church and replace it with worldly apathy so that anything goes and nobody is offended. Preach! I say. Ain’t it the truth?

And so Peter did Preach it.

1 Peter 2:9-17 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:

That’s my life verse! I was born to be peculiar. 

Let’s see some Bling!

This country needs to see some Christians standing out in the crowd for what they know is right. Someone shining the light of Christ while standing up for the foundational truths that this nation was founded on. One Nation under God.  People who are willing to fight for what they believe in.

It’s not hard for me to speak Christ when I remember the dark place that I came from. The place where Christ called me out of. It’ was literally like stepping out of a dark cave, where I felt alone and frightened, into the light of day where I had friends waiting for me and a support system like I’d never had. I had family who loved me, but I felt they had to. That was a rule. But I’d never had this genuine relationship with a body of people who were working for the same goal. And the goal was to love on and take as many people with to Heaven as possible. That should be what the world sees when they see the church. But unfortunately too many Christians can’t get the world out of themselves. They don’t realize how important God thinks they are. They are a “royal priesthood.” 

Put on Your Crown!

Your not an ordinary person. You used to be, but now you’re someone highly important and you should live like you are. 

Peter said:

 [10] Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. [11] Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; [12] Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. 

While America is our home for the time being, we are still considered pilgrims, just as Peter called them in his day. We are a visitor in this land, never meant to put down roots like we’re going to be here forever.  When I go out of town and stay with someone I don’t move in like I’m never leaving. I treat their home and them with respect, and honor their ways, even if it’s not something that I would do at my house, so that when I leave I’ll be spoken well of. 

That’s how we should walk through this world. People should love to see a Christian coming as they would if the King and Queen of another nation were coming to visit. Think of a time when you had visitors that weren’t the best kind of visitors. They’d didn’t leave you with the desire to invite them back. Kind of like the people in Seattle that destroyed their own town. Who in their right mind would want to invite them into their city or their home. 

So if we represent God in our hometown, what should people see when they visit us? If we are the representatives of Christ here on the earth, the royal people of God, what should we do when we meet people in every day life? Should we expect them to bow? No! We’re in their land. We should be treating them with respect. We should also be oozing the goodness of God to the point hat they can’t wait to be in our presence again. But is that the case?

What do your friends and family see in you? What do they hear from you? And leaving their presence better than when you arrived? Or are they telling their neighbors that they’re glad you’re going? There used to be a slogan at Victory Baptist Church that said “Discover the Difference.” Is there still a difference?

Don’t Ask Anyone to Kiss Your Ring

[13] Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; [14] Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. [15] For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: [16] As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. [17] Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

While we’re just visitors in this foreign land and our actual home is in Heaven with God; unless He decides to take us home, we’re going to be here a while. So what should we be doing?

Submission

A terribly dirty word in society today. Everyone wants their own way. But that is not God’s way. His way is for us to submit and humble ourselves as visitors in a foreign land. If it’s a new decree that citizens are to wear purple on Fridays. Wear purple, what’s it going to hurt? There’s nothing in the scripture that says you shouldn’t wear purple. But if they make it a decree that we’re to wear a rainbow in support of pride, what should we do? Sorry folks, that’s where I draw the line. And I would hope that I have respected people enough on the ordinary laws they’ve made, that when I stand out against matters that are biblically incorrect, people will honor me because of my kindness.  But maybe not. I’ve certainly seen it both ways with the mask mandate. 

I humbled myself many times and wore the mask. Other times I had a rebellious spirit that said no. I’ll be honest, I’m probably not the poster child for Peter’s verse when it come to that issue. But I always tried to explain in kindness that I didn’t mind people wearing them, but I can’t breathe with them on. So I opt to breathe. I hope you don’t mind! I wasn’t using my liberty as a “cloke of maliciousness” as Peter said. But there have been some who did. 

While Christ is the Son of God, and came from Heaven which we have never seen. Was perfect in every way, that’s not what He flaunted when He came to earth. He did not have people kiss His ring and bow to Him. He didn’t even wear a ring. He came humble, not even having a home to live in. So what is expected of us?

Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

Respect everyone. Saved and unsaved alike. 

Love the people of the church. They are our people!!!         

Understand who is the sovereign leader of our Nation. It’s not the senile old man in the White House, but he our president. And unless it goes against scripture, I’ll honor what they say. And then perhaps, they’ll keep their mouth shut and won’t prove themselves ignorant.