Category: testimony

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

Sarcasm and Christianity, a Woodshed Moment

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Sarcasm and Christianity, a Woodshed Moment

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

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

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

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

Love is Kind. Sometimes I am Not. 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 

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

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

1 Timothy 6:11-12 KJV

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

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

Love Doesn’t Vaunt. I Try Not to.

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

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

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

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

Psalm 19:14

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

Love Doesn’t Misbehave. I Do.

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

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

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

Matthew 18:3-6 KJV

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

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

My closing questions for myself are this:

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

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

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

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

The Dumbing Down of Repentance

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Dumbing Down of Repentance

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

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

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

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

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

Hammond.

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

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

Johnson.

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

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

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

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

Repentance is Serious Business

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

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

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

Matthew 3:3-8 KJVS
For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. [4] And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. [5] Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, [6] And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. [7] But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? [8] Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:

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

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

Repentance is Sacred Business

Matthew 3:9-13 KJVS
And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. [10] And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. [11] I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: [12] Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. [13] Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.

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

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

Repentance is Sincere Business

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

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

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

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

Posted in Evangelism, Life Inspiration, Political, testimony

But What About Me?Where do I fit in the Gospel?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on But What About Me?Where do I fit in the Gospel?

As I sat in the most frustrated state I have been in for a very long time spiritually, not knowing the direction I should go, I dried my eyes and determined to continue on. Why? Because I’ve made a ministry out of being watched. I’ve put myself out there on the internet, in the churches, on the road with speaking and singing. I’ve called the religious out and I’ve failed many times in a very public way. But I did it because I want the watchers to understand that being saved doesn’t make you perfect, it makes you forgiven, and it should make you humble and grateful.

Twenty six years of walking Salvation’s road, waiting for the day that Jesus will take me home and wondering several times why He hasn’t already done it, I’m a pro at the “I’m fine theory.” I’ve told you that many times before. But as you likely know… I am far from fine.

What about me? What about you? Where are you at spiritually? I’ve always tried to be an open book, but never to the point that it would bring shame on the church or the Lord. That’s a line in the sand I won’t cross. I have seen others who have almost joyed in the fact that they can throw a church under the bus. I have watched people tear a church member or leader down to an unsaved world and my first thought goes back to Preacher D.L. Kerby who said “Christians are the only army that kills their own soldiers.” It’s truth right?

If anyone disagrees with the church, they’ll excommunicate them, trash them in public and tell people they’re obviously lost, else they’d have agreed with the church. Praise God, in my 26 years of ministry I have not had to deal with that. Not one time. I’ve watched people come and go from Victory Baptist Church and I’m still friends with the vast majority. And anyone I’m not friends with it’s been their decision not mine. Because I don’t play politics and I don’t play religion. They are very closely associated.

Religion and politics are all about control

My Aunt Nelli was likely Pentecostal. I’m not really sure, But she would get so happy in the Lord. I can still hear her in my mind and it brings such joy to my heart. My Dad was not a Pentecostal, my Dad was not labeled by any denomination. He never cared for the name over the door. He was not a shouter. He was a worshipper and a testifier. At about 10 years old, he and I went to see Aunt Nelli who was ill. When we got there some women from her church had come to lay hands and prayer over her, and there might have been a little tongue talkin’. My Dad prayed for her, and then swooped me out of there as fast as we went in. I kept asking, “Dad, where are we going, why are we leaving, what kind of words were those women sayin?” No answer came. He didn’t tell me they were crazy, or out of control or anything a “religious” person would have said. He simply let it be. That day made an impact on me because I knew there were two lessons. 1. Take care of your people. 2. Don’t judge them, that’s between them and God.

I have been a part of religion. I loathed it. I knew it was not of God, but I stayed because many other things in the church were. The people were of God. 90% of what was taught there was a part of growing a relationship with Christ. The 10% came from the flesh of men that had to get their jab in. You know, men should wear button down shirts and women should wear dresses and yada yada yada. I went with the flow because i was SOOOOOOO GLAD to be saved and be in a church that taught me how to walk with Christ. I learned early on there is no perfect church, but I considered mine to be a good balance of worship and dedication to service.

Religion and Politics Restrict Communication

And then it happened, Satan found a foothold in the church about 15 years ago. He put a rift between the preacher and I and made sure it would cut off communication. I never left. I believed in the ministry and I fought the flesh hard to stay. Because the flesh said hit the door and don’t look back. I wept day after day. I went to church with a knot in my stomach and throat. I said amen begrudgingly but I kept going because I knew people were watching. They knew I was upset, and they figured I’d leave. But I didn’t. God fixed it and I continued on. I didn’t do it for any glory. I did it because I needed that home church connection to keep me grounded in my faith.

But when there is a barrier between you and the communication of the preacher, it takes its toll. While I can read and study and continue on in my relationship with God, a broken spirit was like a diet of saltine crackers and water. I was so hungry for encouragement from the man of God. But the words he spoke were a lot like the teacher in the Charlie Brown cartoon. Wah, wah, wah, wah, wah, wah, wah. His words fell on deaf ears, no matter how hard I tried to listen.

Religion and Politics Don’t Care What You Think

The Jews had a reputation of not caring. Especially abut someone outside the Jewish faith. When Jesus met the woman at the well, she was shocked that He spoke to her.

John 4:6-18,20-24 KJVS
[9] Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. [10] Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.

But Jesus broke that barrier by knowing all there was to know about her. He understood her thirst. He too was thirsty for water. But He knew more than the water from the well, she needed the forgiveness of God. The amount of guilt this woman carried caused her to come to the well in the hottest part of the day when nobody else would be there. He knew that she needed cared for physically and she needed her spiritual needs met.

Religion is all about what man has, does and knows. Christ is about what we need!!!! I can know the Bible from cover to cover, so does Satan. But what about my relationship with Christ? What about the communication and connection. When I get there, that is when the worship occurs.

[11] The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? [12] Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? [13] Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: [14] But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. [15] The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw. [16] Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither. [17] The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband: [18] For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly. [19] The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet. [20] Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. [21] Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. [22] Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. [23] But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. [24] God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

More and more people are falling away from the church because the church is more concerned about the program than the people.

When the disciples came back they wondered why Jesus dare talk to this woman. But they didn’t have the kahunas to ask Him.

John 4:25-29 KJVS
The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. [26] Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. [27] And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why talkest thou with her? [28] The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, [29] Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?

After her encounter with the Lord she too became a minister of the gospel. That’s what happens when you’ve been with Jesus!!!!!

I hope you’ve been with Jesus today!!!

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Life Inspiration, Praise, testimony, Word of God, worship

How to live a life that’s Pleasing to God

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on How to live a life that’s Pleasing to God

I sang at the Long Term Care Unit in Grantsville on Monday, and it was such a privilege. To sit across from them once again and sing and converse, which had all but stopped in the Covid era, and should now not be taken for granted. We are called to minister to the sick and aged, and the church as a whole is failing them. Collectively we fail the young and old. We fail to disciple the young, minister to the aged and encourage all others. O’boy. That’s not very encouraging is it. Please hang on, I promise I’ll get there.

How’s Your Walk?

Paul told the Church in Colossians 1:10-29 KJV
[10] That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; [11] Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

Worthiness is not something that I often feel. It’s a good thing my worthiness is not dependent upon my performance, but rather my standing in Christ. My standing is the fact that I am saved by the blood of Jesus, no more no less. But do I please Him with my walk? That’s a good question. When I think of walking with the Lord, that’s an action outside the church building. Are we being fruitful in good work outside of the building? I know in my own life that gets so busy with earthly minded things, the Kingdom of God isn’t high on my list of priorities. Just being real. Ridgeview News is wonderful, I absolutely love it, but it has taken it’s toll on my time with God and my work for God. My walk’s a little lame.

How’s Your Praise?

[12] Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: [13] Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: [14] In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

I had not had a serious praise session with Jesus until I attended “David” in Lancaster, PA. When I say serious praise, I speak of a hand raising, tear streaming, glory to God moment. That makes me very sad. Those sessions have never been every day, but they used to be far more frequent that of recent times. The reason? There’s several. But for certain I need praise in my life with Christ and to Christ. Should we not take the time to praise Him when we think on what He has saved us from and “translate us to?”

Twice the word translate is written in scripture. Here in Colossians and again in Hebrews when the writer speaks of Enoch: “By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death, and was not found, because God had translated him for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.”

Wait…? God took him home because he pleased God by the way he walked? Interesting, is it not? I guess I know why I’ve not disappeared. Enoch was translated; taken into the very presence of God because his testimony pleased God. A portion of our testimony has got to be praising God for His deliverance of our souls out of the hand of the demonic forces of Satan on this earth, and into the Heavenly Kingdom where He awaits our arrival. We have reason to rejoice friends. We need a good praise and worship time in our life!

How’s Your Purpose?

[15] Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: [16] For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: [17] And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. [18] And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. [19] For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;[20] And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. [21] And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconcile [22] In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: [23] If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

That’s a chunk of scripture to swallow at one time, but every time I went to end what I would use here, I could not for it would change the meaning of what I needed to say for God’s glory.

When I ask myself “how’s your purpose?” It stings. I’ve always known, even as a child, that I had purpose. That sound arrogant and believe me there’s nothing but humility in the statement. But as early as nine, I recall conversations with God, though at the time I only knew enough to be dangerous. Now I only know enough to be slightly less than dangerous. But I knew God had a purpose for me in this world and I knew it was to speak and write. I did not know how, but I knew it to be the case. So when I think about how God got me to where I am today, I realize that I do not take that role near serious enough. I was created for God’s purpose. You were created for God’s purpose. Are we walking in it in a way that pleases God? That is the question of the day. I can answer for myself with a firm “No.”

I need to do better.

How’s Your Confidence?

Paul had great confidence that God had set him aside with a purpose so mighty that the was willing to walk away from the life he lived and die for the life Christ gave him.

[24] Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church: [25] Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; [26] Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: [27] To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: [28] Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: [29] Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

Paul had such confidence in what Christ was doing in him and through him. He knew he was called to the Gentiles. To deliver a mystery to the church. Who doesn’t love a good mystery? But what’s even better than the mystery, is being the one that that is given the answer to it! that’s us! God has given us the answer to the great mystery among the Gentiles, in that we are a people of purpose. Just as the Jews had purpose as God’s chosen, and will again. We have purpose now on this earth to lead souls to the almighty knowledge of God, given to us through the word of God. Oh glory!!!!

For me today that’s such a reason to rejoice. That in these fingers, in this tiny house, in this tiny State, God gave me a purpose for the massive Kingdom. And that purpose is to encourage the believers. Glory! I pray I’ve done that for you, because this word has certainly encouraged my own soul today.

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

The Certainty of Salvation

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

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

The Persuaders

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

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

Anger Persuades Me

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

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

The Spirit Persuades Me

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

The Word of God Persuades Me

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

Death Persuades Me

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

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

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

Posted in Leadership, Life Inspiration, Political, testimony, Word of God

Why I Jumped Ship

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Read Psalm 55 and it reads like King David was living in Wisconsin, DC or Washington State. He was so frustrated that he was hated without cause. 

Psalm 55:2-3 KJV

[2] Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise; [3] Because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for they cast iniquity upon me, and in wrath they hate me.

My current focus has been on the rioting and trends of the United States. I can’t stop thinking about it. So as I read David’s words this morning I felt his angst. I personally am not persecuted and attacked like David or many, many others in our country right now. I’ve not experienced the personal loss of my home being vandalized, but that doesn’t stop the heartache in my life from seeing it happen to others. I lay my anxiety at the feet of Jesus, but I occasionally pick it back up just to make sure it still scares me. I know… crazy right? 

According to commentary, David penned this Psalm at the time of the betrayal of his son, Absalom, and Ahithophel’s council against him. It has also been interpreted as a type of Judas betraying Christ Jesus. Can we not see that in todays chaos. The betrayal of our Lord by our Nation (as a whole) is unbelievable. Anyone on the side of the Lord is considered by the left to be an enemy of the state. I want to scream “We’re the good guys!” We’re not destroying our nation, we’re praying for it. We’re not disrespecting authority, we’re wearing our stupid masks that I believe are a farce because we’ve been ordered to, and we’re trying our best not to go the wrong way down the Walmart aisle. Give me a break! 

By comparison to David’s trials of the day, it seems almost petty. But it’s not petty, people are dying. Not in Calhoun County, West Virginia, but in my country. We have a nation of brats out of control and they need judgement now.

David prays as much:

Psalm 55:9-11 KJV

[9] Destroy, O Lord, and divide their tongues: for I have seen violence and strife in the city. [10] Day and night they go about it upon the walls thereof: mischief also and sorrow are in the midst of it. [11] Wickedness is in the midst thereof: deceit and guile depart not from her streets.

When I see someone up in someone’s face, screaming BLM rhetoric to the top of their lungs, I’m tempted to pray as David did. “Kill’em Lord!” But that’s not a prayer for this era of time. We’re to pray for the lost. Lord, give me strength… I know I’m to offer grace, but deed it’s difficult.

I did something over the weekend that I’ve not spoken of a great deal. But this morning it seemed to line up with my current writing. I changed my voter registration. An an 18 year old I registered Democrat, my dad was a Democrat, however he was one with morals. In my county of 7500 (ish) people, the bulk of which are registered Democrat, there is seldom anyone on the Republican ticket to vote for. Many of my friends are on the Democratic ticket and I want to support them. But come the next primary election, that won’t be possible. And I’m not sad about it. My beliefs are the enemy of the Democratic Party (as a whole) and I wanted no part of it. Yes, there’s still some good people in it, I have family in it. But for me personally, I will not have my name attached to any organization that defies God. And they do.

For David it was much the same. His current enemy was people he had once been in church with: 

Psalm 55:12-14 KJV

[12] For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it : neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him: [13] But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. [14] We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company.

How sad… and how very much 2020. 

I know that my friends are not the ones rioting in the streets or speaking out against God. But it is unfortunate that they are not standing up for Him either. They’ve not fallen in line with the leftest rebels, but they’ve scooted over from the right so far, you’d not know it. I worry about them. I love them. But I’ll not stand with them. There may not be one Republican on our local ballot, or maybe there will be… either way, I’ll not be affiliated with a party that stands for:

  • Abortion
  • Taking God out of the Pledge of Allegiance
  • Calls Murder, vandalism and tyranny a “non-violent protest.”
  • Refuses to call sin out
  • The removal of the 2nd Amendment
  • Calls for the defunding of police
  • Fails to support our troops
  • Indoctrinates public school children with BLM (Black Lives Matters) philosophy to include the destruction of the “family unit.” (Blaze special on this tonight with Glen Beck at 9 p.m.)

Yes, I know many of you that are democrats don’t believe in that… but that is the open and proud agenda of the National Democratic Party. And your name is on their roster. Like it or not, you’re listed among’em. I have no ill will toward you or lack of respect for you. But for me, I wanted no part of it. 

David’s conclusion is why I changed to the Republican Party. While I had originally determined I would file as an Independent, and I have no qualms with that; I determined I wanted to be apart of the committee that endorsed my President, Donald Trump. I wanted to stand beside him. 

In the latter verses of Psalm 55, David says this: 

Psalm 55:22 KJV

[22] Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.

I’m by no means saying the Republicans are righteous. Oh, I know they have issues. In this fallen world, there’s nothing created by man that doesn’t have issues. But when it comes to the biblical principles, they’re far “more” right than the Dems. And the Dems have just about crossed over to demonism. If the Republicans move to the left, I’ll jump their ship too; but as far as my faith, my trust that the word of God is truth from Genesis to Revelation, that God has not changed His mind on any sin, on that I shall not be moved. Amen! God has no political affiliation. But He has standards, and He expects His people to stand on them. 

Posted in failure, Grace, Health, Life Inspiration, testimony, Uncategorized, Word of God

You Don’t have to Pay for Common Sense

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Can you believe it? Here we are smack dab in the middle of the Holiday Shopping season. Today is Black Friday, and I can’t say that I’m sad to be working. While Black Friday is fun, kind of… it’s also, at least in my experience, a waste of money. A trip to the big city requires a half a tank of gas, eating out a few times, and buying things that I usually discovered weren’t that great a deal. There would be a few bargains, but the bulk of it was not. This message is brought to you by God. He actually gave it to me, but I decided it was a worthy share! You’re welcome. 😀

My text today is from Hebrews 5:8-14

[8] Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; [9] And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; [10] Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec. [11] Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. [12] For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. [13] For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. [14] But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

Wisdom In Common with Jesus

He is the Son of God, for which we too have been made. 2 Corinthians 6:18 tells us “And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” And as the children of God we are entitled to wisdom the world is not. Although I know that, I have a tendency to forget, and it was a commercial for a diet plan that popped up on Instagram that brought it to the forefront of my mind, where it has been for several days. While I truly believe this woman has some wonderful ideas to share about our relationship with God in diet decisions, and her plan wasn’t that expensive, for me I knew wasn’t something I needed to spend $50.00 for. God spoke to my heart and said, “Stick with me kid, and I’ll show you the way.” It’s true! While there are specific diets that I need instructions for, the Bible is truly all I need if I read it, and use it for guidance in every day decisions. We have the Spirit dwelling inside of us, making us in common with Jesus’ wisdom. 

Suffering In Common with Jesus

While Christ was indeed the perfect Son of God, one thing that He he not experienced in Heaven was suffering. Verse eight said “yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered.” Which is where some of the greatest lessons in my life have come from, because I am anything but perfect. I make the same mistakes over and over again. Jesus didn’t make a mistake that brought suffering, I made His mistakes, and you did. It was our sins that brought on the suffering of the cross, but what He learned was that He was willing to suffer it all for us to have a relationship with God the way He does. Did that knock a knot on your head like it did mine? Wow! Every time I come to the realization of what the Lord did for me, I stand amazed. 

Sense in Common with Jesus

We should have sense in common with Jesus, but as the writer of Hebrews says, many are still suck babies who haven’t moved out of the bottle stage. Truth? I think so. I too can fall into that category. Especially when it comes to making life decisions that I know the right answer too, but go in error because it tastes better. Literally. The young lady with the diet plan speaks of praying her way through the grocery store. Isn’t that a great idea, and it should be common sense, but it’s not something most of us consider because our mind is in the cheesecake isle… or maybe that’s just me. 

Verse 14 says “But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”

Good and evil speaks to what’s good for us, and what’s bad. Exercising is good. Even though scripture says it “profiteth little.” (1 Timothy 4:8) That’s my favorite part of that verse. But the problem with me, and many others, is that we want the milk of the verse, and not the meat. The full verse says “For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the the life that now is, and of that which is to come.”

We all want Heaven. Most of us want it a long time from now. But we make decisions like we want it tomorrow. Ouch. I just felt another knock on the top of my head again. It’s like Black Friday shopping, it’s only a good deal if you need it. Whether it’s dieting or shopping, do you need it? That’s where the wisdom and sense of God come into play. Else there will be suffering.

I don’t know about you… but for me that was good word going into this shopping season of insanity. Amen! 

Love ya! Hope you have a blessed day. ~ Shari

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Eternity, Evangelism, Family, Leadership, Life Inspiration, testimony

Never Give Up

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We do not cross paths in life by happenstance, of that I’m certain. While we may be there by circumstance, it’s not by happenstance (coincidence). I look back on my 57 years, with a primary focus on the past twenty-three, those are the years since salvation; my formative years of serving Christ in the capacity of me which lead into The Jesus Chick which came to be in about 2005ish. I’m not very good at dates, but I’m very good at events that made a difference.  There are things that happen and people who cross our paths that leave us saying “I’ll never be the same.”

When my brother was killed when I was ten years old, it forever changed my outlook of life on earth as to whether or not it was forever. It was not. At the time however I didn’t understand it all, I only understood that life was very, very sad and I couldn’t fix it. And I tried in my 10 year old state of mind to fix it by living in altered realities called my imagination. It’s what makes me weird and okay in a world that I still can’t fix. It’s not always healthy. It sometimes leads to not facing reality as one should. True story. Don’t judge me. 😊

I had another one of those bell ringing moments this morning as I read a social media post of a friend who just lost her father. One of the things that made a deep impression on her was the number of people who came up to her at her father’s service and said “I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the fact that your dad never gave up on me.”

We need some more Gene Duerksen’s in the world.

But even in a world where there’s a shortage of Gene Duerksen’s, and we often miss out on taking advantage of those that we do meet who encourage us in the battle of life, I was reminded through the word of God this morning that there is one will forever spur us on! Gene Duerksen now see’s Him face to face…

Romans 8:37

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us.

How many times have I attempted to fly and sometimes crash landed and other times succeeded but with no witnesses for review? Many. But how many times have saints of God had faith in me even when I had none and cheered me on or gave me words of advice and encouragement.  Too many to count. I’m still privileged to that.

Lynn Stoneking’s testimony of her dad’s character of encouragement reminds me that I too have the opportunity to never give up. Not on my kids, grandkids, friends, family and me. Because God will never give up, so how can I? Did you need that word today? He doesn’t give up on you either! Share this post. Tell a friend or family member you believe in them. Shoot me a message and let me know I’ve encouraged you. We need to share and care for each other.

Posted in Evangelism, Forgiveness, Grace, Leadership, Life Inspiration, testimony, Youth

The Danger of Walking on the Wild Side

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I’ve recently watched a few Christian friends, and by watching I don’t mean “watching” in the sense of waiting for them to fall or judging their walk. I watch because they’re drawing attention to themselves and the fact that they are drawn to the wild side. To my knowledge, they’re not actively participating in a bad lifestyle, but they’re fascination of it brings me to the realization that I too, and likely every child of God, can be drawn into a desire to walk on the wild side. And there is a danger.

Romans 11:24-26

For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these which be the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?

For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, untill the fullness of the Gentiles be come in.

And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungoliness from Jacob.

Apostle Paul is speaking to the Jews about the wild side of the Gentiles. They didn’t appreciate it. They’d always steered clear of the Gentiles; and now, this Gentile loving Jew was telling them that they should embrace them and call them brothers and sisters. What? That rebel nation is now God’s people too. Yes! Hallelujah. Because we were made new. We were not a heathen branch grafted into a healthy tree that would have weakened it. But rather we were a newly formed branch, not formed by nature which grows wild, but rather formed by the Creator with purpose. I just wrote myself happy!

The Jews were represented by the olive tree, a valuable, fruit bearing tree. But their focus wasn’t on the fruit, it was on their status as the original tree. Apostle Paul was trying to reintroduce them to the Fruit Bearer. Christ. The long awaited Messiah that they had rejected because they didn’t understand the mystery of the work that God had done. They didn’t want to understand. That would be key.

And sometimes we don’t want to understand the price God paid to turn us from that wild branch, into a Holy Nation. You see, there’s a side of me that can look back on the wild side of life and think “that was fun.” But then I remember what life was really like outside the True Branch. And nothing on the backside of where I am now, seems appealing. I don’t want to mar the beautiful Branch that I have been allowed to become a part of.

That’s what scares me about the friends of mine that find joy in reliving the wild side memories and walk dangerously close to marring the branch.

Glorifying Sin Mars the Branch

When someone speaks of the past life’s sin in a manner that makes it sound fun and exciting, it can cause the unsaved to think that we’re missing out on something by being saved. That’s a mark on the branch, because it is the furthest from the truth.

I lived unsaved 34 years. I had plenty of experiences in life that the world deems as fun. I also know the miserable state I was in at the time. That somehow gets forgotten by those glorifying those days.

But now… Glory to God I’m having more fun, and more excitement than I ever had pre-salvation. Hands down, it is not an exaggeration!

Glamorizing Sin Mocks the Branch

That thought makes me nauseous. But for me it’s what happens when I hear someone laughing and joking about sin. Whether it’s their sin from a previous life, or someone else living in sin. There’s nothing funny about it.

What someone views as a funny story about a drunk, reminds me of the lives I’ve seen ruined, absolutely destroyed because of alcohol. When a Christian speaks of alcohol as “not sinful,” when drank in moderation, I wonder who they’re trying to convince.

While few people joke about drugs, the legalization of marijuana (visit https://www.buyweed.au/buy-weed-canberra/ to buy them legally) reminds me of a night at 15 years of age, I almost died because someone laced mine with PCP.  You may say one has nothing to do with the other. I disagree. Because one is a gateway drug to the other. Just as beer is the gateway to a stronger fix for an alcoholic. And one time just may be the end to a life that wasn’t saved. It’s a game that is too dangerous to play, and certainly doesn’t need glamorized by God’s people.

Glossing over Sin Moves the Branch

Making light of any sin, or looking at the wild side of life as a fond memory causes an instability in the life of the believer not just the unsaved. I’ve watched it play out too many times.

I heard a preacher mock the “Baptist” about not being drinkers for months and months, and then I watched him fall to alcoholism. He did eventually win the victory over it, and I praise God for that, but he paid a high price.  

I watched as a woman made light of her indiscretions and almost destroyed her marriage.

I was broken hearted when a preacher friend fell to a sexual sin. I also remember his last sermon, the title of it was “Finishing Well.” He did not. Infidelity counseling was knocking at his door and it helped save him.

I didn’t get my 20 plus year badge of the Christian faith without being broken hearted, hurt, and yes, I too have fallen because I’ve walked too close to the wild side. It’s too dangerous to make light of and Satan loves it every time a Christian “fondly” remembers a day of sin. Don’t give him one drop of glory.

Remember what the price for that sin was. We are not heathen branches grafted into a healthy tree. We were made new! Let us act like it.

Posted in Christian Service, Eternity, Evangelism, Faith, Family, Heaven, salvation, testimony

That’s a Good Funeral

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Proverbs 17:27

He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.

One might think (and often correctly) that me and the phrase “sparing words” would never be in the same sentence. It is however a family trait.  While I have no problem speaking what’s on my mind, there are times (sometimes days upon days) that I’d rather say nothing to anyone. The ringing of a telephone causes my stomach to go nauseous and even messages on social media overwhelm me. I like silence. Because I know that in those times is when I am most likely to hear God speak. And then there are other times, if I’m honest, that I am drawn to the noise of the earth around me because I know in the silence I’ll hear God speak, and that scares me too. It’s crazy, I know! But it’s me being real.

Yesterday I attended the funeral of a sweet cousin who’s epitaph verse was Proverbs 17:27. He was a very well educated man with much to say, but seldom said it. This is one of the most serene funeral services I’ve attended. His daughter said it best when she said “if he spoke you should listen, because his words were weighted.” What an awesome testimony he had, all I can say is that it was a great cremation memorial with the most beautiful sympathy flowers I’ve seen in a while. A cremation services is much more peaceful for the family since their remains are with them after their passing. You can have a funeral pre-arrangement plans and hire cremation memorial services for your loved one if you want this process, you can view online all of the funeral services they have available at certain funeral homes.

As I sat there and watched his children work through their grief in front of an audience and do it so God glorifying; it did what cremation services like this should do, it caused me to reflect on my own life and the cause and effect of silence. Silence can be good, or silence can be bad, there must be balance as in everything in life. Even Cheesecake. I know that’s random… but it’s true.

The Racket

Three times in Psalm 46 the Psalmist says that “God is our refuge.” Refuge being a safe haven, sanctuary or shelter. As a child of God I understand that. I have run into that place to escape the sorrows of the day so very many times. I’m in that place right now. I needed this word this morning to send me to the feet of Jesus to speak to Him about the many burdens in my life. They accumulate so quickly. Too much, too often and I’m consumed by it.  They’re a racket in my mind. God understands. That’s why He spoke this Psalm into David. Not only for him, but for us.

Psalm 46

1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;3 Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

Those roaring waters and trembling mountains that feel as though they’re going to bury us in defeat are exactly what runs us into the refuge. If it were not for that trouble, we’d think we didn’t need help. We’d be sure that it was us who could get us through the issues of the day. God doesn’t make the trouble, but He’ll get His glory in the midst of it!  I witnessed that yesterday.

My cousin’s death was not a death of God’s timing. But God knew the heart of the man and used the occasion of his memorial to quiet the noise in my life and probably many others. Death has a way of putting life in check.

  • This is important. √
  • This is not. √

The River

4 There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High. 5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.

I sing a song titled “Tell Me One More Time About Jesus” and in that song there is a line that speaks of the Pastor’s words being like a “cool drink of water.” The Psalmist’s words are such. So were the words of the memorial, because they all point to Jesus. Jesus is that river, that makes glad the city of God! When a child of God comes home, whether timely or not, you better believe there is rejoicing in Heaven! Should there not be on earth.

I told my cousin Duke last night when he called to see how the funeral went, that “I love a good funeral!” We laughed, but he knew what I meant. Because we both know Jesus. And there is joy in knowing that a loved one’s struggle is over and they are sitting beside of Victory! Glorraaaaaay! That puts a shout in my soul.

The Refuge from the Rage

6 The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted. 7 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah. 8 Come, behold the works of the Lord, what desolations he hath made in the earth. 9 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire. 10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. 11 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.

You can better believe that Satan was not a happy camper at Gassaway Baptist Church yesterday. He expected worlds to fall apart when he moved “his kingdom.” But this world is not our home, and this world was not what my cousin’s children had their eyes on.  They were standing in the refuge of the God of Jacob. The same God and Savior who gave Jacob a new name when he wrestled with God in Genesis 32.

Every battle of a child of God ends in Victory, even if it doesn’t always appear that way.

My cousin was described as a man of few words, yet he was a writer, a thinker, a ponderer… and he and I had many times talked about our ponderings of God. He left his testimony with us through his children when his daughter said, “Our dad was a humble man who wouldn’t want you to focus on his education, successes and the many things he did that no one knew. He would want us to tell you of the day he made Jesus his Savior.”

If someone in your family has passed away, I highly suggest you to look for Asian funerals services. You may also learn more about Tuell-McKee Funeral & Cremation Services.

That’s a good funeral.