Category: Peace

Posted in Faith, Family, Fear, Heaven, Life Inspiration, Peace, Word of God

Sounding the Alarm on What’s Happening in the World

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Sounding the Alarm on What’s Happening in the World

In these strange political times, it’s hard not to think about the end of time as Jesus tells His disciples in Matthew 24. As a new convert in 1996, the very first serious, and in-depth bible study I did was on the book of Revelation. For a new baby Christian, it was perhaps not the side of the book for which to begin, but it was not the only Word I was receiving at the time. I was listening to preaching at every opportunity from throughout the Word of God, but this study certainly planted my feet firm in the foundation that I had better be ready when Jesus returned.

Are you ready?

I sat in church yesterday morning in a Sunday School class of more than a few but not near enough. I knew that during the worship service the sanctuary would have many people in it. Many who didn’t believe there was a need for them to be in the Sunday School hour. I was frustrated and burdened. My eyes filled with tears knowing what they did not, or chose to ignore. Jesus wasn’t sugar coating the end times in Matthew 24.

Matthew 24:1-8 KJV
And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple. [2] And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. [3] And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world? [4] And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. [5] For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. [6] And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. [7] For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. [8] All these are the beginning of sorrows.

During the Roman period, in AD 70, the Second Temple was destroyed, along with Jerusalem, by Titus’ army. It was also during this period that Jesus was in Jerusalem. He was crucified about 40 years before the destruction of the city. Jesus sat there, in the flesh of a human, telling the disciples what was going to soon happen. They were warned. It happened, and yet man still sits ignoring what Jesus said would transpire in times to come.

As I understand the setting for Matthew 24, the church will have been raptured from the earth, meaning caught up in the air. And by church I speak of those who have accepted Christ as their Savior. This will be the time when the Jewish Nation of Israel will once again be center stage in God’s plan. Currently, God has them setting on the back burner. The Muslim mosque and dome are built on top of the site where the first and second temples stood, and is known as Temple Mount. I have no idea how the destruction of that mosque will occur, but the Scripture says they’ll be a third temple built. The Bible never makes a connection between the timing of the resurrection (rapture) and the start of the third Jerusalem Temple being built, except that the resurrection must occur before the start of tribulation because scripture states that by the mid-point of tribulation the temple will be built and defiled by the Antichrist.  

Additionally, tribulation begins with a deceitful peace treaty between the Antichrist and the Jewish people which could possibly initiate the building of the third temple. However, this is mere speculation. Marking the mid-point of tribulation the Antichrist will compromise the peace agreement, taking a seat in the temple himself and calling himself God, which in effect defiles the temple as described in the book of 2 Thessalonians. That my dear friends is pretty heavy thoughts for my brain. But when you look at the world today, is it hard to believe of any of that being far off?

And yet, God’s house sets empty of many souls that are going to be left behind when God returns for His church. It’s the most heart wrenching thought that stays in my mind because I have so many family and friends that I do to know the condition of their souls. Many tell me they’re fine. But how do they know? Were I not in church at every opportunity, in the Word of God myself, reading these scriptures and receiving the great peace that comes from the gift of the Holy Spirit, I would be terrified. I know because prior to salvation I was terrified.

God started dealing with my heart at the age of nine. Why that age, I have no idea. But I had been in church enough to know this prophecy… the end would come and it was bad. I don’t think it was by chance that God started my journey in the scripture in the book of Revelation. And I don’t think it is perchance that you’re reading my blog today. Below are the words to Matthew 24 and the link to a video of the song. I love you, whomever you are. Please, if you don’t know Jesus, message me today. If you don’t attend church, find you a good one and begin. It’s the sweetest experience in life.

Matthew 24

Words and music by Lonnie Glosson

I [D] believe the time is coming
For the [G] Lord to come a-[D] gain
I believe the end is nearing ev’ry [A7] door
I be-[D] lieve the good old Bible
From [G] beginning to the [D] end
Just compare today with [A7] Matthew twenty-[D] four[D]

We are living, surely living
In the [G] days He speaks a-[D] bout
All of these we now are having every [A7] day
Let’s be [D] ready for His coming
Let us [G] meet Him with a [D] shout
For He tells us in His [A7] word to watch and [D] pray

While upon the Mount of Olives
His disciples came to Him
Saying: “Tell us when these things are going to be”
Jesus answered: “Be ye watching;
Let ev’ryone be free from sin
And take heed no man shall ever ye deceive”[D]

We are living, surely living
In the [G] days He speaks a-[D] bout
All of these we now are having every [A7] day
Let’s be [D] ready for His coming
Let us [G] meet Him with a [D] shout
For He tells us in His [A7] word to watch and [D] pray
Posted in Christian, Church attendance, Evangelism, Faith, Family, Life Inspiration, Peace, salvation, Uncategorized, Word of God

The End is the Beginning of a Great Life!

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The End is the Beginning of a Great Life!

As I read Romans 10, Paul’s words pierced my heart for my family. Those are the first people that came into my mind when I read “Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.” It’s such a simple statement, yet such a hard task to accomplish. Such a simple process, yet it seems the most difficult decision. That was Paul’s desire, yet his ministry ended up not being to the Jews, but to the Gentiles. And what an impact he made there! What can I glean from Paul’s words to make my life more productive for the Kingdom?

The End of What you Know

Romans 10:1-21 KJV
[1] Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. [2] For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. [3] For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.

I have people that are so stinkin’ smart, they’re too smart for their own good. They assume they’ve got life figured out. They make more money than I can dream of, have all the “things” that supposedly make their life complete, and yet eternity is nowhere in their scope of concern. They’re good people, or so they think, they don’t realize that their goodness does not enter into the equation of salvation. The same was true with Israel. They thought their goodness was enough, they’re name as God’s chosen was enough. But it was not. They had not submitted themselves to the understanding that they would never be good enough to go to Heaven. There wasn’t enough righteousness in their entire family combined to go to Heaven. It is only through what Christ did on the cross that one can be saved. Their self made theology fills the world today, they need to get out of their own head, and into the mindset of God.

The End of the Law

[4] For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. [5] For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. [6] But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above : ) [7] Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) [8] But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;

Moses said if you think you’re good enough to get to Heaven, you’ll line your life up by the law. All 613 of them and stand before God without failure. Can you do it? I can’t live without breaking one of the Ten Commandments. There is no way under the sun that I can live without breaking 613. Nor can anyone else. That’s why Christ had to go to the cross to pay the penalty of sin for every single man and woman on earth. Because there are none good enough. It is believing by faith in Christ and that work on the cross that allows you to enter in. It is His righteousness, the One who never sinned and was the only worthy sacrifice for man kind. The end of the law is your beginning of faith.

The End of the Difference

[9] That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. [10] For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. [11] For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. [12] For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. [13] For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Paul’s desire was that Israel, his Nation of people was saved. He had been a man of the law, serving in the highest of office in their religion, calling men and women out for being Christian and even killing them. No one had lived any more zealous than he had lived for the Lord and was wrong. He had walked by the letter of the law as a Jew, God’s chosen, but now he understood that it was for nought. He too was now saved, not by what he’d done, but because he believed. He believed because he had a personal experience with coming to know Christ as His Savior. “Christ ask him on the road to Damascus

Acts 9:5 KJV
[5] And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

Pricks (goads) was an instrument used to guide livestock. The guiding principals that Paul had lived by were no longer in play. He would have to walk a whole new way, and believe in what he had fought against. Is this not what has to happen to each one of us as we come to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Suddenly, we realize that there is no difference in us than anyone else. We’re all sinners. Even the vilest of people that we loath is as good as we are. The Jews lived by their zealous righteousness, that they were above the Gentiles, all other people. But because of God’s grace, he took the difference out of the equation. Everyone stands even at the cross, and it is only those who kneel to it that can be viewed as worthy through the blood Christ shed for them.

The End of Excuses

[14] How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? [15] And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

For many in my family and yours too likely, there’s 101 reasons not to go to church on Sunday morning. This is the greatest of tragedies for the people of God. Many of them may be saved, Christ does not say, “Thou shall go to church.” But while we are no longer under the law, the law is not void. We’re forgiven, but we’re not excused to sin. As a Baptist it’s often said of us that we can do on Monday, what we say is wrong on Sunday and be okay. No… that’s not how grace works. While grace offers forgiveness, if you are a child of God, you’re not excused to live without accountability. There are consequences for stupidity. And one of the stupidest things God’s people and the unsaved do, is their thinking that they don’t need church.

Church is one of the greatest gifts that God gave His people. It is there we build our relationship and understanding of the word of God that allows us to live in peace. The very thing that everyone desires, and few have. They don’t have it because they have no relationship with God or His people. Victory Baptist Church did not save me, Christ did that, but it for certain has shaped me into who I am and has afforded me a peace that I never knew prior to salvation. By attending church I receive the word of God from the man of God. I have friends that lift me up in prayer and give me opportunity to do the same for them. I have the sweetest fellowship that is not in the world. You may have friends… but not friends like those in the Lord. As a child of God I have the desire to be in His House, in His word and with His people. He puts that desire in everyone of His children and we are without excuse for not following it.

[16] But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? [17] So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. [18] But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. [19] But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you. [20] But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me. [21] But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people.

God knocks on the heart of everyone and asks them to believe in what He’s done. He’s stretched out His arms to a world begging for love and peace and offered it to them, but they’ve rejected it, both Jew and Gentile. It’s not easy to be humble. But it is so worth what you receive in exchange. There’s no excuse for not being saved. You have the opportunity today if you’ve read my blog. I’ve written it in love, in hopes of new kinfolk. Let me know if you’d like to join the family of God, I’d love to share with you how you can be apart of His life giving, love feeling, peace knowing family.

Posted in Christian, Eternity, Evangelism, Peace

The Benefit Package of God is out of this World

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Benefit Package of God is out of this World

What benefit is the world offering you today? That’s my question to myself. Perhaps it might be yours too after you read my thoughts for the day. When I think of the world, it’s usually in the context of evil. And with good reason, it is evil. But while we’re here, there’s plenty of good benefits of the Lord!

John tells us in

1 John 5:19 KJV
[19] And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.

The whole world lie in wickedness. There’s no “good” thing in the world? No, I don’t believe that’s what John meant. God created the world it said in Genesis and God said “it was good.” Over and over he saw that it was good. So obviously there’s some really good stuff down here. But it’s lying in wickedness. Satan and his minions have the power of this earth to create evil, even out of the goodness of God. They can put something that was never intended to draw our attention away from God in front of us and cause our minds to delight in it so much, it becomes a little “g” god. Staying focused in this evil world is definitely not easy. The world grows more and more evil by the day. But for the child of God, there is still good.

David said in Psalm 68:19-20 KJV
[19] Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. [20] He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto God the Lord belong the issues from death.

Both John and David knew that they belonged to the Lord. We belong to God through the blood of Jesus. He literally bought us by paying that price on the cross. And once we belong to God, there is a great benefit package! I love that David said he loads us daily with benefits. But do we take advantage of God’s goodness daily? I know I don’t. God has given us spiritual blessings, an abundance of grace, as well as mercies untold for which He ought to be praised day by day. Selah (stop and listen)

He is the God of our Salvation

Can we possibly praise Him enough for that? And do we understand the magnitude of it’s benefits. A couple of the men in our church were talking about the age of their salvation, both being around the age of 9. That is the age that God began dealing with my heart as well. Both of my daughters were saved at the ages of 8 and 10. Perhaps it’s at that time that our mind is at it’s most accepting state of the truth. The world hasn’t jaded you at that age and you can understand the difference between good and evil. God dealt with me at that age, but I didn’t get saved until I was 34. There were many years in between where this world could have been my demise and I would have busted Hell wide open. But for grace… I praise God that He allowed me to be saved, He didn’t have to. David reminded me today through that verse that it is the Lord that is in charge of the issues of death but also the issues of life.

The benefit package that comes from living for the Lord is beyond anything we can imagine.

The benefit of His peace…

John 14:27 KJV
[27] Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

He left us His peace! The peace that scripture says passes all understanding. The peace that in the face of death I can live without fear. The peace in knowing that when I lay down at night my family is in his watch care. The peace in knowing that as crazy and wicked as this world is, someday I’ll live with Him! Glory to God what a benefit in the knowledge of Christ.

The benefit of His presence…

Hebrews 13:5 KJV
[5] Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

As I mentioned before, I love things! But nothing in this world has ever given me the joy that the presence of God in my life has brought. That 24 hours a day, 7 days a week I can talk to Him and He responds. That is a gift only given to the child of God. The unsaved have never experienced a conversation with God, but we that are saved can speak to Him at any time. Can I at least thank Him daily for the ability to thank Him!

The benefits of His people…

Being a part of the family of God is also an experience never felt by the unsaved. And it’s often not felt by a child fo God because they fail to take advantage of being involved with the body of Christ.

Ephesians 4:11-13 KJV
[11] And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; [12] For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: [13] Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

Until the day we are given the final benefit of perfection, we have the body of Christ (the church of God) meant to encourage us, teach us and come along side us when times are hard. Not only our church members, but members of the body of Christ who believe He alone is the Son of God who died for the sins of the world. Jesus plus nothing equals salvation. And that comes with a host of earthly agents mean to encourage you and build you up, not tear you down, which is exactly what the world will do at every opportunity.

There are so many benefits! Too many to count and today I want to show gratitude to the Lord for He has been so good and so patient with me. What about you? Are you experiencing those benefits? I’d love to hear from you! Blessings ~ Shari

Posted in Christian, Faith, Peace, Prayer

In Search of Good News

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on In Search of Good News

Yesterday I had had about as much bad news as I could stomach. On the national scene and on the local scene it just wasn’t good. Russian war crimes and more Ukrainian victims is off the scale of my comprehensive thinking. Locally citizens were choosing to tear each other down rather than just agreeing to disagree about a matter; or Heaven forbid, consider that there might be other solutions than their own. I was trying to cover news objectively and unbiased, but I’m human and I really just wanted to tell a few people what I thought of their behavior. But I did not. I chose to suffer anxiety until I fell asleep. That made everything so much better.

But this morning is a new day. For everyone of us! We have a choice whether or not to focus on the negative or the positive and to choose God’s side regardless of the arguments below.

My question for myself this morning was, if I had ask yesterday, what God thought of each issue that was causing a knot in my stomach, what would He have said? Let’s take the biggest issue right now int he world, the war against Ukraine. What does God want me to do about that war? Is there anyway that I can help those people.

Oh yes, there is a way. My mind went to three men on a hill in Rephedim…

Exodus 17:10-16 KJV
[10] So Joshua did as Moses had said to him, and fought with Amalek: and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill. [11] And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed. [12] But Moses’ hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. [13] And Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword. [14] And the Lord said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven. [15] And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovah-nissi: [16] For he said, Because the Lord hath sworn that the Lord will have war with Amalek from generation to generation.

Three men on a hill, not in the battle, just observing from afar. Moses lifted his hands and there was victory, but if his hands went down there was defeat. So the two that were with him, his brother Aaron and friend Hur, stayed up his arms and helped a brother out. Can we not do the same for Ukraine today? Can we not lift them up in prayer and cause the battle to sway on Ukraine’s behalf? It is not for me to say if God will do that, but how will we know if we dare not ask. And would we not want someone somewhere praying for us in like manner if this attack had happened on American soil? Prayer doesn’t seem like much until it’s all you’ve got.

Three men on a hill saved thousands of lives. Think about that! Do you have two friends you can gather with today and pray? Or just you, God won’t mind in the least if it’s a private conversation. But we have got to lift people in prayer if we want to make a difference from where we are.

How to pray for Ukraine: From “Send International”.

  1. Ask God to redeem this situation by drawing many people to Himself. May Ukrainians discover that Jesus is the only true source of peace, safety, comfort, truth and freedom
  2. For the opening of corridors both for evacuation and humanitarian aid around cities under attack in Ukraine. Many people in these cities are without heat and electricity.
  3. For many churches that opened their doors to neighbors offering food and shelter.
  4. For protection of many kids and parents who will spend another night in bomb shelters, metro stations or on the roads to safer places and all brave volunteers risking their lives to evacuate people.
  5. For logistics of getting funds and humanitarian aid to churches and refugee camps so they continue to have food, medicine and other supplies.
  6. For protection of lives but also church buildings that were built so sacrificially for years. May these churches be a beacon of light for those who do not know Jesus as their Lord and Savior!
  7. For many pastors leading their flocks at this critical time of decision and risk. They carry a heavy burden.
  8. For many believing men who will have to bear arms against a professional army as the war continues. There is no other alternative for them, that we know about. Pray also for the many women who are fighting as well.
  9. For the Lord to cause the opposing army to lose the will to fight, be afraid, be confused, or use other methods to stop the war.
  10. For many volunteers who are setting up camps for refugees, so that they will have necessary funds, places for accommodation, and physical strength to serve.
  11. For many believers to stay strong, continue trusting the Lord and not to give in to panic, fear and desperation.

Now, What about the day to day stresses in our own lives. First, think about the Ukrainian prayer list. That alone should put most of our lives into a different prayer category. Few, if any, who read this post are facing that kind of prayer need. But that’s not to say our needs aren’t important. They are and God cares about each and every one of them.

But today, I’m going to choose to focus on three men on a mountain. There’s a bluegrass song by that title with the the lyrics, “Three men on a mountain, up on Calvary, the one in the middle was Jesus, He died for you and me.” His arms were outstretched too, but not like Moses.’ His were stretched out in sacrifice. Today I can pray for Ukraine and know that my prayer is heard for the land far away. But because of Jesus’ sacrifice and my belief in it, He’s in me, comforting my heart and taking care of the battles that I am facing on American soil as well. There was a child in our community diagnosed with cancer this week… that’s a real life battle. That’s life in perspective. There were some seriously hurt feelings yesterday, God heard it. And He’ll handle it. In His time and in His way.

Today there is good news. God is on the throne. He sees everything happening every where and I feel so much better knowing that He understands my every fear and heartache and that He too has experienced it all. My Pastor said in a sermon last week that “Christ had to experience death, so that He could take it away from Satan who thought he had the power over it! Glory to God isn’t that an amazing thought. Satan will continue to wreak havoc for a while, but his day is coming. And until then, we have hope and security in knowing that we do not have to rely on anyone else to lift up their arms in battle. We have the right through the blood of Jesus to go before the throne ourselves and say “Lord, I need you! Please help.”

I don’t know about you, but this word wrote me happy! Three men on a mountain… yes I was as unworthy as the thieves hanging with Jesus, but He has prepared a place for me, just as he did the thief who accepted Him on the cross. Jesus took the fear of death, hell and the grave and replaced it with hope and peace! Glory! That is such good news. I pray you know that feeling today. If you do not, message me and let me pray with you. If you have a prayer need, I’d be every so grateful to be your Aaron or Hur and lift you up to the Lord. God loves you, and so do I. I even love the people that I wanted to pinch the heads off of yesterday. Hey… I’m still human. I have not got my glorified body and this one is still very much in the flesh. I understand frustration. But not as much as Jesus understands and He can help.

Posted in Eternity, Evangelism, Grace, Life Inspiration, Peace, Word of God

Prisoners of Hope

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Prisoners of Hope

What better description can we find for the children of God today! While it is true that most days the frustration of this world makes me feel like I’m in prison, I am assuredly a prisoner of hope. Just as the prophetic scriptures of Zechariah describe us in verse 12 of his book:

[12] Turn you to the strong hold, ye prisoners of hope: even to day do I declare that I will render double unto thee;

For certain a good verse for the refrigerator! But an awesome verse for the encouragement of the Spirit when you read the preceding prophecy:

The King is Coming!!!!

Zechariah 9:9-17 KJVS

[9] Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. 

The prophetic telling of the triumphal entry told 500-ish years before the actual event unfolded on the streets of Jerusalem. Our Lord in His humbleness, who should have had at the very least a Cadillac chariot, was content riding on that little donkey. What an example He set before us as to what our attitudes as children of God should be. Humble and grateful. But I’m not. I’m more often than not, bratty and discontent. Praise God, Jesus knew there would be stress and struggles and His mercy extended forward to the days we’re in. I love the word of God! The more I read and study, the more I discover His magnificent plan for us. And what a privilege it is to be living in these days. We’re spoiled! We don’t deserve the life we’re living, and yet God has promised us an even better life for those who trust in Him and believe. While we often feel as though we’re captive in this wicked world, we’re prisoners of hope and promise. Golly, I just wrote myself happy! Thank You Jesus!!!

But read on! There is coming a day when the wars we see on this earth will end and we will live in peace. Can you imagine a world of nothing but peace? It’s hard for me to imagine. Not only a world without wars, but a world without disagreements and politics. A world where there is nothing but truth. Nothing but TRUTH! Oh my stars won’t that be grand!

Just as the old hymn says:

There is coming a day when no heartaches shall come

No more clouds in the sky, no more tears to dim the eye.

All is peace forevermore on that happy golden shore,

What a day, glorious day that will be.

The King is Bringing Refreshments!

 [11] As for thee also, by the blood of thy covenant I have sent forth thy prisoners out of the pit wherein is no water. [12] Turn you to the strong hold, ye prisoners of hope: even to day do I declare that I will render double unto thee; 

You should know by now where my mind goes! 😂 

In this latest heat wave that we’ve been experiencing in West Virginia, nothing is as refreshing as a cool drink of water on a hot summer day. As much as I love Coke Zero it’s not nearly as good as water to quench the thirst.  But the water that Christ brought to us on the cross, that life giving water that Christ told the woman at the well she would never thirst again after receiving, that is what we’ll experience when the King returns. We’re drinking it now, but the world drains our well daily. Or at least mine. I have to go back to the book, the Word of God for a refill. But when Christ returns to takes us home for eternity, where we will live in the presence of that Water. We will never know thirst again. But when these words of Zechariah were written, that water had yet to be experienced. They living in dry times before the Messiah had come. But here lies the promise, the hope of Glory that they would one day receive that life giving water. I say that we are the prisoners of hope, which is true, but not to the degree that the Old Testament saints were. We are living under grace, they were living under the law. I don’t see how it would have been possible that God wouldn’t have struck me dead within 24 hours of me forming my first human opinion as a child. The Lord knows my heart, and He for sure knows my mouth! Before I was a mouthpiece for God, I was a mouthpiece for Satan. 

Back to the Refreshments… In the presence of the King, we will want for nothing. This morning I have desires that have yet to be fulfilled. You know… stuff. Stuff that I’m relatively sure will make my life complete. It won’t. But I think I need it. But there in His presence, there will be nothing I desire but Him and His desires. He’s going to refresh my every want with a double portion. Nothing will take my attention away from the purposes of God. Like Amazon… EBay…. Cato’s. You know. Stuff. 

What a day that will be when my Jesus I shall see,

And I look upon His face,

The One who saved me by His grace;

When He takes me by the hand

And leads me through the Promised Land,

What a day, glorious day that will be.

The King is Still on Schedule

[13] When I have bent Judah for me, filled the bow with Ephraim, and raised up thy sons, O Zion, against thy sons, O Greece, and made thee as the sword of a mighty man. [14] And the Lord shall be seen over them, and his arrow shall go forth as the lightning: and the Lord God shall blow the trumpet, and shall go with whirlwinds of the south. [15] The Lord of hosts shall defend them; and they shall devour, and subdue with sling stones; and they shall drink, and make a noise as through wine; and they shall be filled like bowls, and as the corners of the altar. [16] And the Lord their God shall save them in that day as the flock of his people: for they shall be as the stones of a crown, lifted up as an ensign upon his land. [17] For how great is his goodness, and how great is his beauty! corn shall make the young men cheerful, and new wine the maids.

Commentary says of this passage that it speaks of the Jewish Apostles, who belong to Zion the church of Christ, who were sent forth into the Gentile world to deliver the gospel with weapons of warfare, not carnal but spiritual, which went forth as a bow piercing the hearts of mankind. Yes! It did pierce my heart in 1996 and left a hole that Christ alone could fill. Salvation filled me with that new wine that made me make noise! Where I once made noise for the world, now it’s for Christ and for His glory. We are the saints that are filled with the final sacrifice of the cross through the Holy Spirit. There is no more animal blood on the altar, but Christ’ 🩸 blood is there. Those of us who accepted that sacrifice that was made in our stead to pay the price for our sins will be as the stones of a crown. And you know how I like to 💖 sparkle. 

Many in the world have given up on Christ’s return, if they ever even believed it. They’re living day to day without hope. But that is not the case of a child of God. We know that His timing is not ours. Just for the record, God does not have an 🍎 Apple watch. We’ll know it’s time when the trumpet blows, but not until then. Until then we have work to do. 

Sparkle little children! Shine the light of Christ to someone today. 

Posted in Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Peace, Political, Word of God

We Have Hope in the Desert

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on We Have Hope in the Desert

There are times that I have to take a break from all forms of media. It gets so overwhelming on my soul and leads me into a time of depression and frustration. But the problem with me is I shut down from everything. Including God. Add to that a life that is chaotic, ballgames, work woes, laundry piling up, dishes in the sink and the reality that I don’t have maid service,  and I’ve dug myself quite a pit. So what’s a chick to do on a day like that? Get in God’s word and dig my way out!

One of the greatest culprits of my state of mind is the state of our Nation. I’m going to share some thoughts here that may rub some folks the wrong way, but as my old friend Doyle Ballengee used to say, “If that ruffled the cat’s fur, turn the cat around.” Oh he cracked me up! But our nation has gone mad. From the national to the local level; we’ve lost our ever lovin’ mind. And for those of us with an ounce of sense, (which comes from Heaven, nothing on our own) we know that the lies and hypocrisy are so deep they end in China. Which according to one of the youth in my teen class, if we dug our way to China the earth would whistle… total random thought. That too is where my mind is at right now. 

But deep in the book of Isaiah, in a lesson for Israel, I found a lesson for me. There will come a day when God will shut up the lies and hypocrisy, but until then, just know 

Truth Flows from Above

Isaiah 41:17-24 KJVS

[17] When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the Lord will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them. [18] I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.

Rivers in high places? That’s kind of strange place to find a river isn’t it? But not for the children of God! Oh glory that thought makes me so happy. I’ve been feeling so dry and barren lately. This world just is just getting “hopeless-er.” I know… not a word. But when you look at the world from a human perspective, it’s worse than hopeless. What’s happening on a national level has made it’s way into the local level and the depth of it’s depravity has yet to be understood by most people. Sound dramatic? Our public schools have become a petri dish for the liberal left to test their theories of race, gender and misinformation on. And our “so called” educated people are the lab rats turned loose on our children by exposing them to anti-Christian rhetoric, sexual reorientation of elementary school children and panic porn medical officials creating fear in children and parents. Still sound like I’m being dramatic? It’s being taught at West Virginia University to their up and coming teachers on how to present the BLM curriculum. This image is a coloring page from it for elementary school. Is that close enough? And so, that is why my mind was in the low, dry place.

But God said He would make us rivers in the high place, not the valley. So get out of the valley Shari! God has heard my cry. Through His word He is pouring hope into this gal. 

Wisdom is in the Fountains of the Deep

 [19] I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the shittah tree, and the myrtle, and the oil tree; I will set in the desert the fir tree, and the pine, and the box tree together: [20] That they may see, and know, and consider, and understand together, that the hand of the Lord hath done this, and the Holy One of Israel hath created it.

A pine tree in the desert? Who but God could make that happen? I have to believe that in this spiritually dry and barren world we’re living in, it’s us who have been planted planted by rivers and fountains of life giving water that keep us sustained and give the lost hope, in a world that has gone absolutely mad. God has given us the ability to “Know, and consider, and understand together,” that we have the truth and He is providing us the wisdom to fight against this attack on the moral fibers that He has made us up of. “Together.” He planted a multitude of different trees in that dry land, and there is a multitude of churches planted on this earth. So long as their roots are grounded in the foundational truths of God, we can comfort this fearful people. I realize that I’m speaking in a lot of metaphors today, but it’s how the Lord spoke as well, so I’m going to run with it, hoping that it encourages your soul as it is mine. 

Ignorance is in the minds of Men 

 [21] Produce your cause, saith the Lord ; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob. [22] Let them bring them forth, and shew us what shall happen: let them shew the former things, what they be, that we may consider them, and know the latter end of them; or declare us things for to come. [23] Shew the things that are to come hereafter, that we may know that ye are gods: yea, do good, or do evil, that we may be dismayed, and behold it together. [24] Behold, ye are of nothing, and your work of nought: an abomination is he that chooseth you.

I love it God calls someone out. I’m seldom brave enough to do it. I’ll speak my mind, but I generally leave stupid people to stupid ways. But not God! God tells them to put their money where their mouths are. If they believe their gods are so powerful, prove it. He did the same thing with Elijah and the Baal worshippers, Daniel in the Lion’s den, The three Hebrew boys, and now he tells these worshippers of the “little g” gods to prophesy in the name of their gods. They can’t. Nor can this tribe that’s on earth today that believe in nothing, give hope to a world looking for it. But we can. And that is why God has a remnant of us here to proclaim and prophesy that the Lord is returning. And when He does, they’ll have figured it out too late. 

Satan is making yet another attempt to get at the children in our nation. The California Department of Education will soon vote on a new statewide ethnic studies curriculum that advocates for the “decolonization” of American society and elevates Aztec religious symbolism—all in the service of a left-wing political ideology. The new program, called the Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum, seeks to extend the Left’s cultural dominance of California’s public university system, 50 years in the making, to the state’s entire primary and secondary education system, which consists of 10,000 public schools serving a total of 6 million students.

In theoretical terms, the new ethnic studies curriculum is based on the “pedagogy of the oppressed,” developed by Marxist theoretician Paolo Freire, who argued that students must be educated about their oppression in order to attain “critical consciousness” and, consequently, develop the capacity to overthrow their oppressors.

What used to take ten years to make its way across the United States to West Virginia seems to take less than a year now. 

The Black Lives Matters Curriculum that has made it’s way into West Virginia and every other state is going to mar our children’s minds in an unrepairable way if we don’t stop it. If you’d like to see more on the curriculum, follow this link. 

https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1LGslwJwhXvpVnDgw0uC-n794l6EGzpuH.

Now is not the time to be lacks. Share this blog, share this information and make your voice known. In the words of King David, “Is there not a cause?”

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

Don’t Live with Stolen Peace

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

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

John 12:32 KJV

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

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

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

Revelation 1:4 KJV

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

Peace to the Church

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stolen Peace from the Earth

Revelation 6:1-4 KJV

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

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

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

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

Amen? Amen!!!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism, Family, Peace, Political

Being on the Wrong Side of Politics can cost you

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Being on the Wrong Side of Politics can cost you

I’ve thought much about taking a stand politically. I realize it makes me opposing someone’s viewpoint and therefore may cause them to turn me off when it comes to sharing Christ. But then, if someone is already in that mindset, they likely have turned me off anyway. And so I just decided that I stand not on the side of Trump, but on the side of Christ. And if He lead me to stand with President Trump, I would. And I believe He did.

It’s one of the reasons why I decided not to become a 501c3. You can’t take sides with the government, well, unless you’re on the liberal side and they’ll let you park there all day long. 

I have to ask myself, “Was Jesus involved in politics?” And then I think about Matthew the tax collector. Jesus hired him right out of politics. He knew there would be people who didn’t like Matthew because of his background, but He made him a disciple anyway; even let him write one of the gospels!  Glory! That puts a shout in my soul. Matthew was no longer a tax man, he was God’s man because Jesus called him out of it. 

And so it is that I too have been called out of the world of politics. I worked in it for years. I loved the people, but I hated the position. It left a bad taste in my mouth because I always had an opinion, and it usually went against what most others would say. And I’m still that same person, but with a focus on the office of the High Priest, and that lead me back to the office of the President of the United States. 

Jesus was having a conversation with a multitude of people; warning them agains the religious tribe who wanted to control them, not for God, but the power of it. Ugh… is that not what has become of our government. It’s indeed a power struggle, not a government for the people, by the people, but a government for the political. 

Jesus says in verse 1 “Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” He goes on to say that their sins will come to light, and that the world will know. And that’s exactly what we see happening in Washington. While they’re not the hierarchy of religion, you’d think they were. They’ve made themselves gods, to the point of controlling life and death. (i.e. ~ abortion, healthcare, etc.) All the while, we’re told to beware, and yet the liberal church appears to be oblivious to it and the sin that surrounds them. And its why as a child of God, I feel compelled to stand with President Trump. He’s not a perfect President! I get why people are so against him, but if they’d only look at what he stands for in comparison to the other side, there would be no doubt who’s side God is on. God would not be on the side of anyone for abortion, anyone for the pornography and filth that’s being used by the left (democrats) to educate our children. In the words of Biden himself…. “come on man.” That is so hypocritical it defies logic. 

Jesus’ conversation continues in chapter 12 and then comes to a head in verse 49-59:

Luke 12:49-59 KJV

[49] I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?

Jesus didn’t come to put out the fires, He came to start them! He knew that we would be the opposition in this wicked world, and so He advises us not to stand down, but rather stand out, even in the face of adversity with friends and family. 

I adore my family. They’re truthfully some of the nicest, compassionate people on earth. But not all of them stand with me on the side of Trump. Oh no…. there is a division. And so most of the time I keep my mouth shut for the sake of peace, until verse 51.

 [50] But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished! [51] Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: [52] For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. [53] The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.

Scripture also says in Matthew 12:25 that “every city or house divided against itself shall not stand.” So what has happened to the House of God? It is certainly divided. While they’ll say it’s wrong of a church to take a stand on politics, (and they shouldn’t tell anyone how to vote) it’s not wrong to stand on scripture. The Democrat party is anything but biblical. And the hierarchy of that organization is not the same as it was in the past. That’s where Christians have derailed. They’re saying, “but i disagree with those parts of the the democrat committee.” But your title says you don’t. 

Jesus said “Beware.” Be aware. Don’t stick your head in the sand. 

 [54] And he said also to the people, When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower; and so it is. [55] And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass. [56] Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time? [57] Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right? [58] When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison. [59] I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou hast paid the very last mite.

Being on the wrong side of politics will cost you. 

It may also cost your family it’s soul. I’m not here to play politics, I’m here to be the voice of the Savior Who is telling me  “Warn them Shari.” And so I do.  Warn your people too, please!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Church attendance, Eternity, Life Inspiration, Not Another Manic Monday, Peace, Word of God

The Great Escape

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Great Escape

Every time I reach the point of exhaustion, brought on by too much list and not enough time, I have one of those wishful Calgon take me away moments. If you remember the commercial, it’s where the mom soaks down into a tub full of Calgon bubbles and somehow her world goes away.

While that’s awesome. The problem is you have to get out of the tub eventually! Monday comes. That’s where the manic Monday concept comes from. The dishes need done, the work needs done, people need stuff, the phone’s ringing, the bills need paid and it all gets to be too much.

It’s then that I need my life to make sense. I need order in my chaos. And because I am personally my own chaos, I can’t do it. So I go to the word. And I look for my escape from the manic I call Monday.

I knew it was coming. So when the Pastor preached from Philippians four last night and I heard the word escape, my mind began to drift from Sunday night to Monday and I felt that overwhelmed feeling and thought, “that’s my word for the week.” I need to escape!

But just like the Calgon bath, I knew I would eventually have to face it. Just as we all do. So I might as well face it with the Lord and His word.

When looking for an Escape, Don’t Ignore the People

Hebrews 11:32-35

And what shall I more say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae, of David also and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out o the weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in the fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:

Glory to God what a line up of people for us to gather encouragement this Monday morning!

Most of them did escape. They eventually got their Calgon moment. But some went by the way of great escapes because they escaped to the best Calgon Moment of all, the one that never ends called eternity.

And while none of us are likely wanting to shorten our time here. We can still have those Calgon moments if we stay in the word.

Those people, as well as others in our life are there for an example.

Hebrews 12:1 says

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.

God knew there would be “Calgon take me away” days. He wanted us to be prepared for them, so He put examples of the others who faced worse, and many in our own lives today. You know who they are. The people that you just don’t know how they do it.

I think of Louis Milam. A man in our church who had crippling arthritis and the deformities that came with it, and yet he seldom ever missed church. He’s my go to guy even though he’s already gone on to Heaven. Every time I want to throw in the towel, I think of him. I don’t figure Louis had one Calgon day in the last 20 years of his life. And yet he didn’t quit.

Don’t ignore the people that God put in your life to encourage you.

My second point:

When Looking for an Escape, Don’t Ignore the Preacher

Hebrews 12:25

See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from Heaven:

If that’s not a warning, I’ve never heard one!

October is Pastor appreciation month. It may be one of the most unappreciated professions of all times in this day and age. The world doesn’t want to hear preaching. I crave it. I listen to it more than music, because to me it is music.

It restores my hope! Last night the preacher said something that really made me take note. He said “Nothing should make us go to one extreme or the other, because nothing changes the fact that the Lord is going to return!”

Wowzer!

Nothing that happens today is going to change the fact that Jesus is coming back! Woohoo and Glory to God! that should put a shout on you. Because you can say that to Satan and it will for sure get his goat, because he knows it’s true.

Someone once said “If Satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future.”

That’s why we go to church and take every opportunity we can to listen to good solid preaching because we need that reminder that we will have our day.

Which brings me to my third and final point:

When Looking for an Escape, Don’t Ignore the Promises

2 Peter 1:4

Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

We have within ourselves the divine nature of God in the Holy Spirit. We have a Calgon moment in the making anytime we want it, but we have to have the promises of God in our lives to escape the corruption of this world which is also still in us. Those promise are found in the word of God.

I don’t think any of us realize how precious the book is. But we can see how precious Satan knows it is because he keeps doing everything within his power to destroy it. It’s why we have to fight for it.

Not nearly enough came to the fight with Madeline Murray O’Hair in 1963 when she single handedly managed to get prayer and the word of God out of public schools. I wonder what our lives would be like today if she had lost her battle. I read the story of her distorted life and horrific death this morning and praise God for her only living son, William, who is saved and serving God in D.C. as an author, Baptist minister and chairman of the Religious Freedom Coalition.

So I’ll say this in closing, the only way to escape the wickedness of this world, is to understand that Jesus is the way, truth and the life. No man comes to the Father except through Him. He is the only way to a true Calgon moment. Do you know Him today. I needed this message today. Take heart child of God, Jesus is coming soon!

Please share this post and I pray your week is awesome!!!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Grace, Life Inspiration, Peace, Praise

The God I Know

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The God I Know

For the past week, you may, or may not have notice my lack of presence on social media.

In the world of rural West Virginia, for lack of another terminology, crap happens. My niece-in-love Kaitlin was traveling the highway in front of our home, as well as a dump truck that had just unloaded his bed. In thinking that the bed was completely down he began moving on the road, when it turns out the bed was still partially up. He then clipped our phone and internet cables, which was bad, but; but also in the process it broke a bolt from the truck projecting it like a shotgun shell through Kaitlin’s truck windshield where it lodged. (see photo below) Which was a nightmare that I can’t even fathom. Accidents can happen at any time. You may get into an accident and your car may be wrecked while driving to work. In such cases, you can hire an attorney who can help you get compensation for the injuries or damages caused.

Without the providential hand of God, this story could have ended so much worse. I’m sure it’s a thought that ran through Kaitlin’s family’s mind on more than one occasion. I’m so grateful that she’s okay. I’m so thankful that I know that God!

Because of Kaitlin’s truck accidents in Beaufort, it caused me to spend far less time on social media. I was not entirely without service. If I walked around the house or yard, held my hand and my mouth just right, I could get enough service to get the occasion message or post through to my phone. I’m a sad and desperate social media junkie. I need help! (Insert smile here)

But I spent my time journaling the book of Jude, verse by verse. Which I’ve only made it to verse 13 of the 25. There’s just so much meat in the book! I could chew on one verse for days and not get all the flavor out of it. So I share with you today, Verses 9 and 10 and a few of my thoughts on religion and why I’m so glad I know the God of that bolt!

Yahweh-Shammah

The LORD is There

Satan loves religion! So we find him in verse 9 arguing with Michael the archangel; but Michael is refusing to argue back. I’m not that strong. I run my mouth to Satan on a pretty regular basis. But the scripture is clear that it wasn’t Michael’s fight. And I fear that I may have fought more than a few battles with Satan that weren’t mine to fight.

As I understand it from commentary, Satan wanted the body of Moses to be buried where the people would be able to set up a monument, which would become a shrine. Far be it from the children of Israel to worship something other than God, and their great respect for Moses (occasional) and reverence (with days of hypocrisy) would have likely caused them to take their eyes from their true deliverer, which was God!

El Shaddai

Lord God Almighty

He was the One with the power to deliver, not Moses. He may choose to use people, or like in the circumstances of Kaitlin, He may just stop a bolt bullet. None the less, He is God Almighty! And worthy of praise!

In verse 10, it is a continuation from verse 8, which speaks to the people of Jude’s day (which sound a lot like the people of our day). It says they were filthy dreamers, defiling the flesh, despising dominion and speaking evil of dignities. Sound like American politics to you? Politics and religion are close in relation. Satan loves when both make it into church house conversations because they are sure to cause division with “most” people. But not a church whose focus is the unity and leadership of God.

Jehovah Raah

The Lord Is My Shepherd

Michael the archangel had a relationship with God, not a religion. He knew the Lord well enough to know that he did not need to argue with Satan, but leave that conversation to God, Who will put the smack down on Satan in the end of our story! Glory to God! Even though Michael, a spiritual being, had the power to kill thousands, and would have no doubt been a worthy adversary of Satan, he was strong enough to shut up. I’m not that strong. I am more often than not in the natural. It is in that mindset that we corrupt our relationship with God. Because we don’t allow Him to have control of us.

I’m so, so very grateful that Kaitlin is safe and is the momma of three beautiful little girls and can continue raising them. And I’m grateful that through her safety, I learned many lessons from the book of Jude. Including the fact that I can rest in the knowledge that God has my world in His control.

Satan may be the little “g” god of this world. But he can only go so far as the Lord will allow! Glorrraaaaaay!

Jehovah Shalom

The Lord Is Peace