Tag: faith

Posted in Evangelism, Faith, Fear, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Purpose, salvation

A Certain Place of Rest for Stupid Sheep

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on A Certain Place of Rest for Stupid Sheep

I for certain need rest. I never realize that anymore than I do during tent meeting week. I wish I was spiritually prepared going into the week. But that has seldom, if ever, been the case. I’m always worn out. Physically, spiritually and emotionally. Which may say more about the condition of my heart than I like to admit. But as I awoke this morning and went straight to the kitchen, started my coffee, unloaded the dishwasher, cleaned the counters, bagged the garbage and then back to make the bed, I realized that I already needed rest and the day hadn’t even reached 6 a.m. yet. Welcome to the world of the Jesus Chick. It’s so glamorous! 😄 

So I went in on my freshly made made, piled up the pillows, climbed in the middle and got out the word of God. 

Ahhhh rest.

Oh Lord Jesus, I love how you speak rest to my weary soul…

THE BEGINNING OF THAT PLACE

Hebrews 4

[1] Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. [2] For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. [3] For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. [4] For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works. 

That “certain place” was in the book of Genesis. At the beginning, the foundation of the world; when God created it and then sat down and enjoyed it. I do that usually after I create something too, be it art, writing, music… I sit back and rest in what the Lord has done through me. Because for certain without Him, nothing could happen. Although God really didn’t need the rest, because He is God; imagine Him seeing the earth in its purest, undefiled form of beauty. No wonder He just rested on that seventh day and took it in! And in this place again He says we shall enter into His rest. 

There are days that I’m ready. Lord take me home! And then I think of what’s left undone, and my heart goes into overdrive, because I realize that there isn’t much time left. And there are many who do not understand, because they have no faith. They’re not going to enter in to that final rest with me. And it breaks my heart. When God created the earth in the beginning, He knew there would be a day when He and the people He created would rest in that place. But not all and not until it would be recreated in the final days. The ones we’re heading into. 

[5] And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest. [6] Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief: [7] Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. [8] For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day. 

God spoke through King David on a “certain day.” One of my favorite people, and someone I have a hard time wrapping my mind around meeting. In that future rest, I’ll meet the man that penned those words in Psalm 95 when he wrote:

THE MIDDLE OF THAT PLACE

Psalm 95:7-11 KJV

[7] For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice, [8] Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness: [9] When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my work. [10] Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways: [11] Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest.

Those are the days that I fear for my people. The ones who have yet to come to the saving grace of Jesus Christ. They’ll never know true rest if not for Him. I know this as a fact, because I have experienced it and God has given me opportunity to share it. But times have not changed so much since the day the scripture was written, because the people are still hardening their hearts. Refusing to accept the price paid for the rest, or the purpose He has in our creation. We are His sheep. Stupid sheep. Who will stray off the path away from the Shepherd in a heart beat because of the distractions of this world. 

We are in the middle of that place. Somewhere between creation and eternity, wandering around. We have purpose, but deed, I struggle with living in it. It’s why I’m always tired. Even though God has given me a spiritual rest through His Holy Spirit, I still refuse to get into that certain place, until I collapse in it like this morning. And I’m reading God’s word in awe. Perhaps it’s not even making any sense to you, but for me I see God’s purpose in the writer of Hebrews, and David and myself (not that I compare to them) but the fact that God chooses to use me in the middle of this place. For He is God and we are His people! Oh my ✨ stars, how awesome that is. I don’t want to aggravate God like the children of Israel did, but I feel like I too have done my share of wandering. 

Stupid Sheep.

Back to Hebrews:

THAT PLACE

I know I’m only unpacking a smidge of this scripture. There is so much in here. But its like the cheesecake I’m having for breakfast, too much of it’s goodness is overwhelming. So I only eat a slice… or two. 😋 Which, if I don’t quit, is going to get me to “that” place sooner than later. And I really have more to do!

[9] There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. [10] For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. [11] Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. [12] For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. [13] Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. [14] Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. [15] For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. [16] Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

What would Jesus do? Well, He wouldn’t have ate the second piece of cheesecake. 🍰 Or would He? It’s irrelevant in the scope of eternity, but not so much in the place we’re in. What is relevant is this word for me this morning… His word indeed pierced my soul and He discerned my thoughts and intents. He knew I was tired, overwhelmed and in need of rest. That is why He is in Heaven, my High Priest, Who has been where I am, but He didn’t eat the cake. He is without sin. Praise God, I can come boldly to the throne of grace and get the help I need for such a times as this. In this world with a whole lot of other stupid sheep. I am not alone. 

Posted in Eternity, Evangelism, Faith, Fear

God is not Random

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In my lifetime, and likely yours too there has never been such an ever changing time. Minute to minute the news updates with the latest news, the latest the trend, the latest and the greatest of everything, and many in the world are riding that rollercoaster of information with their sanity hanging on the hinges of the next open door. I’m forever grateful that God created the fabric of who I am, which is to live in the moment. Now, if I’m honest that same character trait gets me into trouble, because by living int he moment I often times don’t plan for the coming days, months, years. That’s a very abbreviated version of my messed up life. But unlike this changing world, God is not random. 

In the first chapter of the book of James we find this word that I’m clinging too this morning:

James 1:17 KJV

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

No variableness… no changing. Nothing just happens. 

The Pastor last night introduced me to a new word. “Plandemic.” Does that not crack you up? Maybe your sense of humor isn’t as warped as mine. But this pandemic that we’re going through is an irritation to me. The virus is real, and so is the panic surrounding it. But I have believed from the beginning that the current leftist, anarchy against capitalism, are capitalizing on America’s paranoia and our nation has fallen into the rabbit hole of some kind of wonderland. Where is people’s logic? 

God’s Wisdom is not Random

There is nothing that He does not know.

James 1:5 KJV

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

Call me crazy. But I just believe God will tell me what I need to know.  Because of the fallen world in which I live, I certainly don’t always get it right, but when I ask, listen and follow His guidance I do. The problem has always been, I ask, listen, and then ask myself, and take my own advice. That is what gets me into trouble!  Scripture says that if I ask God, He’ll give me wisdom liberally. That doesn’t mean God is a liberal democrat… Hahaha, I cracked myself up. Liberally means “generously.” All the wisdom I need is mine for the asking. At least all my pea brain can handle. And he’s not going to upbraid, (scold) me for asking. I am free in Christ Jesus to approach the throne and speak to the Lord and Creator of the universe. And so I do. And He points me to the words this morning in this ever changing world. 

God’s Promises are not Random

God gave promises to the nation of Israel, and He gives promises to the Gentile nations, which is the world we live in in America. (Not America only, but anyone other than Israel) We may be one nation under God, but we are not God’s chosen nation. He has allowed us to belong. We weren’t stray cats that showed up on His door step that He allowed to stay. We, those of us who accept His Son Jesus and His sacrifice on the cross receive the promise of eternal life as well as many others because God had a plan before He ever spoke this world into existence.

James 1:12 KJV

Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

My theory, and it is seriously my own, is that God created man to prove to Satan there are those who regardless of life’s circumstance, will choose Him over this world. Pastor also touched on this last night when he said that God created man, a creature He could enter into and redeem. He did so after part of His own angelic nation walked out on Him and followed after Satan’s rebellion. God knew it all and planned it all. Nothing just happens. Unlike the promises of man, God’s promises in the word of God will, beyond a shadow of a doubt come to fruition. And that included the destruction of this world.

God’s Goodness is not Random

Now back to the key verse of today, James 1:17 KJV

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

There is much in life I make no claims of understanding. One such thing is why God doesn’t just kill some people outright and rid the earth of their evil. Oh, yeah…. if that’s how God worked, I’d have likely been gone long ago. I’m sometimes shocked of the evil thoughts that can come into my mind. Praise God for grace and mercy. It didn’t catch Him off guard that I have evil in me, but because of my decision to accept His Son’s payment for my wickedness, God has chosen to have mercy on me, and give me many “good gifts” because of that. Gifts to be used for His purpose and glory. It wasn’t random, He specifically chose me to be the Jesus Chick. This is my ministry, given by God for His glory and to further the gospel.

So why does the evil seem to prosper as well? Satan is an imitation of everything God is for real. Satan too has power in this world to give seemingly good things to bad people. Those good things are many times their undoing. They feel they have no need of God when their barns are full.  But God gave that warning in Luke 12:18-20 KJV in a conversation with a rich man:

[18] And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. [19] And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. [20] But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?

Many are lulled by their gifts into thinking judgment day will never come. But it will. And those who God has chosen to redeem: those born again believers by the blood of Jesus Christ, will receive the goodness of God by being removed from this world before it’s destroyed. 

That is why I can live in the moment. Because in the moment in the twinkling of an eye, I can be standing in the presence of God and this wicked earth will be in its final days.

1 Corinthians 15:52 KJV

In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

How about you? Are you ready? If not check out this page and then let me know! I love to rejoice in a new brother or sister in Christ.

Posted in Christian Service, Leadership, Political, Word of God

This is Serious

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Today, I want to share with you some things that are heavy, heavy on my heart. I emphasized heavy but even that doesn’t do it justice. Yesterday evening I attended church and was encouraged by the pastor’s message from 1 Timothy. I felt the Spirit of God as we sang “What a Friend we Have In Jesus,” and loved sitting by my bestie Glo. She is my sounding board in life and ministry. So are you that read my blog! And I thank you! I am grateful for every day I can spend in the house of the Lord, especially with the recent pandemic closures, but I was a little more than disheartened over the lack of attendance, yet I understood. I realize that my sometimes gung-ho approach to life isn’t always appreciated. But having been saved out of dead religion was a life altering experience for which I’ll not apologize, which was followed by being given a ministry of the Lord which is something that I alone will stand accountable for. Which brings me to the burden of today. 

After I got home from church last night, I tuned into a Blaze special by Glenn Beck. It was not on public television, it is not on YouTube or Google, because they’d have taken it down. Glenn’s investigative reporting unveiled the dark side of this world we’re living in right now as I would have never thought possible. But I’m a cockeyed optimist. I still am, but I want to be optimistically informed as well. And so I pay my BlazeTV subscription and I tune in to what most of my Democratic friends and family would call a radical right approach to life. Can you be too far right? Just asking…

The unfortunate part of my television viewing last night was, I was tired. Which means my attention span would waver. But not much. Especially when he got to the root of the nights show which was to reveal the truth of Black Lives Matters (BLM) that most Americans are probably clueless to. These times are far scarier than you think. Starting with Susan Rosenberg.

This statement is from Wikipedia:

As of 2020, Susan Rosenberg sits as vice chair of the board of “Thousand Currents”, a foundation- and contribution-funded international grant-making charitable organization which supports grassroots organizations in the “Global South” as well as acting as a fiscal sponsor of the Black Lives Matters Global Network.

Also according to Wikipedia she is an American far-left revolutionary terrorist, author and advocate for social justice and prisoners’ rights. Rosenberg was active in many radical movements of the 1970s. After living as a fugitive for two years, she was arrested with an accomplice, Timothy Blunk, in 1984 while unloading 740 pounds of dynamite  and weapons from a car into a storage locker in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. She had also been sought as an accomplice in the 1979 prison escape of Assata Shakur. Rosenberg was sentenced to 58 years in prison on the weapons and explosives charges. She spent 16 years in prison, during which she became a poet, author and AIDS activist. Her sentence was commuted by President Bill Clinton on January 20, 2001, his final day in office.

Might this help you understand the violence happening in our streets? If you go onto the BLM website, you’ll discover that their agenda doesn’t have quite so much to do with black lives as it does, gay, transgender and ridding the world of the  “biblical defined family.”

I believe that a lot of good American people, who believe they’re defending black families, have inadvertently gotten themselves on the wrong side of a dark organization and when they realize it, it will be too little too late. We are a country who thrives on underdog stories. We love seeing the little guy win! But this isn’t a little guy story. This is a white political funded organization that has a designed objective. We’re talking about millions and millions of dollars funneled through the BLM organization. But that’s not where the money’s going. And that was the Glenn Beck show. He listed the organizations and the people who were receiving that money. Because I only know enough to be dangerous I won’t even get into that. Just take note that I’m telling you its scary stuff, it’s very political. And what’s happening is meant to do one thing, “take down America.” And they’re making a good attempt. Starting with our President and anyone who supports him. 

So. Back to my heavy heart. While America is a burden, it’s not near the burden that my people are. The political deception is not only a tool of Antifa, but Satan is living his high life as he watches souls headed for Hell and clueless that they are pawns in his plan. 

My church was pretty empty. I pray they were watching on line. But that’s not enough to assure me that they’re okay. I know how hard it is for me, the Jesus Chick, to stay focused on my ministry work. It was hard for me to write these words today, and wonder if it would cause my site to be taken down. Causing yet another source of the gospel to be lost.

But then I read the story of Philip and Simon this morning. Not Simon Peter, but Simon the sorcerer. He loved the entertainment side of his work. But something happened. Phillip happened. He began to make a difference in his part of the world, so much so, that even Simon got saved!!! But there was still apart of him that like the entertainment. So when he saw the apostles casting out spirits and healing people he wanted some of the action, even offering to pay for the gift of the Spirit of God. But Simon Peter said to him in verse 20 of Acts 8:

“Thy money perish with thee, because trout hast thought that the fit of God may be purchased with money.”

So much for that theory of Catholics.

But Simon repented and said in verse 24 “Pray the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.” 

And so they went on to continue preaching the gospel in Samaria.

The gospel isn’t a show. Too many churches and people love the pretty, entertaining side of the church, but when it comes to standing for the Word of God, they’re found lacking. So the story of Simon gave me hope! Those of us who are standing on the side of right, speaking out against what’s happening, sewing love, not hate, but always speaking the truth of the gospel can make a difference in the lives of the Simons of this world who like a show. We can turn them around until they too are converting others into in the name of Jesus and taking down those who are trying to tear down America. 

Yes I’m a cockeyed optimist. But it’s not a false hope. It’s a belief that I serve a God Who can stop this nonsense and put our world back on the right track. But not without the voices of His people. Don’t be silenced. And if you can, go to church. The Lord needs His people in the battle. 

Posted in Bible Journaling, Evangelism, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration, salvation, Uncategorized, Word of God

Saved in Such a Time as This

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It all started with one verse this morning that I seen on a social media post of Brian Houston. Psalm 32:7 – Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.

Good verse for the day! But before I could claim it as a word for myself I needed to find the context of the writer. What was he going through, was there social distancing in his life at the time? This Psalm, as so many other was written by David. One of the most “in touch” men of all ages, who experienced social distancing on more than one occasion, not by choice. I’m not sure at what point in his life this Psalm was written, but for some reason he took it upon himself to give instruction from personal experience so that we too might live better lives. 

There is no Social Distancing With God!

Psalm 32:1-11 KJVS

[1] Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. [2] Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.[3] When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long. [4] For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah. [5] I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord ; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah. [6] For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found: surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him.

There are many, many blessings of salvation, but the greatest of all is the forgiveness of sin which allows us not to have social distancing from the Lord. It’s the greatest thing on earth to feel as though you’re sitting right beside Him in the room as you pray, read His word or worship. David knew the separation sin caused… but he more importantly knew the fellowship of God that forgiveness brought! The world can order us away from one another, but it can never order us away from the Spirit of God! Glory!

He is our Sanctuary of Deliverance!

[7] Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah. [8] I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.

When the world lets us down for answers, it is for certain God never will. I watched an update of President Trump yesterday with regard to COVID19. While he was doing his best to stay positive and calm his troubled nation, the media was doing their very best to undermine everything he was saying. I loved it when the President set them straight like the toddlers they are. But it still doesn’t do anything to calm the concerns of the people, especially those who don’t know Christ. I have a feeling that David death with the same nonsense within the confines of his people. They loved stirring him up! But David knew, and share with his people the one sure place of peace in the days of trouble. The instruction of God which comes from His word. Hallelujah we still have it today!

Don’t be Stubborn, but rather Determined

They often look the same. David warned about it in the final verses of Psalm 32.

[9] Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee. [10] Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about. [11] Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.

I have a stubborn streak for certain. Especially when it comes to the church. I detest this social distancing. I need my people! My heart cries out “Let’s meet anyway,” and then my Lord cries within “I feel it too Shari, but my people need their safety, and I am with you all.” This is such a good word for me today… not because I’m writing it, but because the Lord gave it to me for such a time as this. On a day when I am discouraged about God’s people not being able to meet. There is a reason the Bible says “forsake not the assembling of yourselves.” We need one another. 

So tomorrow I will meet brother Roger Carter at the church who will preach our Sunday sermon in a new way. It will not doubt be a test for us both. But then we will share it to social media which gives us great distance (as in reach) And who knows who might be stirred to come to the saving grace of Jesus Christ and know the peace that we know in the storms of life.

I don’t profess to have the answers to this new normal, but I know Who has it fully in His control and will use it for His glory. But we must not be stubborn and require being drug to our next destination. But rather willing vessels of God that He can use us from where ever we are because He is within us! 

Glory! I’m glad I’m saved!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Faith, Life Inspiration, Uncategorized

The Access Point

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Grace is hard to understand. We want it, we attempt to give it, sometimes tongue and cheek (meaning we forgive but never forget). We, I speak collectively, though I really mean me, when I say I often think I’ve messed up past the point of being offered grace, because life sometimes just flat out stinks.

True story.

When life gets hard, this Jesus Chick is not so spiritual as to immediately ask the question, “What is God teaching me in this moment?” That would sound really good and churchy wouldn’t it?  No, I’m more apt to ask the question, “How long will I be here, Lord?”

Romans 5:1-2

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:  By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

So much is missed in the midst of a struggle. And life is full of struggles. But the Apostle Paul reminds us that as people of faith (those who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ) we have access to some things the world is not afforded.

We have Access to Peace

There’s a difference between access and acceptance. It’s the same as salvation, we’re all offered it; but if we don’t accept it, we’ll never experience it. There is a difference in the end result. Those with salvation will go Heaven whether they experience the benefits of salvation here on earth or not. The journey is just a lot more difficult. But those who never accept salvation are headed to Hell.

I’m not surprised when children of God don’t have peace in the middle of a storm. Because I’ve been there too. It’s usually a matter of feeling worthy or letting myself get too far down before looking up. If there’s sin or other failures in our lives, we don’t feel worthy. Even though neither will keep you from peace if you talk to God about it. As children of God, it’s ours for the asking!

That’s just the kind of Lord He is.

We have Access to Grace

I love the acronym for G.r.a.c.e. = God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense. Isn’t that amazing? There’s nothing we can do to earn it. It is however what makes me be the person I am. I was born with a servants attitude and when God saved me from the Devil’s Hell, my gratitude went toward servitude.

Grace will do that if you strive to understand it. Many Christians miss the mark because they’re not in God’s word, they’re not in church and so they cannot fully comprehend what the Lord did for them. I sometimes avoid the truth of it myself, because I can’t imagine the degree of pain and humiliation my Lord took upon Himself for someone like me who adds more too it when I fail Him.

The shame wasn’t only on the day of the crucifixion. It’s on us when we blatantly fail God, knowing what He did for us. But the grace is still there. That’s why it’s amazing.

We have Access to Joy

It’s what we can experience even in times of sorrow. The loss of a loved one is gut wrenching, but the knowledge that they were saved and now in the presence of Jesus brings great joy!

The struggles we face are never pleasurable, but the victory is always a joyous moment and made that much sweeter because of the struggle. We realize the strength that we have from knowing Christ as Savior. The unsaved may experience moments of victory, but not as the child of God. Knowing that there was Someone standing beside us all the way and there was never a reason to feel alone. That is joy! He has our back here and He’s waiting for us there!

We have Access to Hope

Not just hope, but we need always reminded that the peace, grace, joy and hope are always for the glory of God. It’s a privilege only afforded a child of the King. I wrote on hope yesterday. It’s a subject I could write on everyday and never grow weary because I need it. I need to know that my aches and pains, those of the physical, mental and spiritual nature will someday be lifted whether here or Heaven.

Maybe you needed to know that too. If I’ve encouraged you, let me know! If I can pray for you, let me know that too. We’re here to be the hands, feet and sometimes words of Jesus. Use us Lord!

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

Old Faith, New Faith, Bold Faith, Few In Faith

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I feel like it could be the title of a new Dr. Suess book.

From Genesis to Revelation it is the same faith. But it certainly varies in the way it’s displayed.

Old Testament saints had faith the Messiah would come, and they were charged with setting forth the principles of New Testament Christianity. Speaking went from a direct line of communication, when Adam and Eve walked with God in the garden… can you imagine what that must have been like! And then following the fall and rebellion of men, a priest would have the responsibility and accountability for God’s children. Not a role to be taken lightly. Handled inappropriately would mean certain death!

God’s Spirit would come upon men like Moses, Jacob and others and it was no doubt an awe-inspiring time. Most likely a little frightening too! It’s from their testimonies that we can experience Old Testament faith.

What characters of the Old Testament would you like to question? And what questions would you ask?

What would have been your reaction if God had showed up in the burning bush to you? Or wrestled with you as He did Jacob? Have you ever felt like you did wrestle with God?

Scroll forward to the New Testament and a whole new line of communication came when Jesus, the Son of God walked the earth once again. But only for a short time. Following His crucifixion and resurrection, that act of unconditional love would humbly allow us, the nobody’s and the somebody’s to speak to God through the Holy Spirit.

As I thought on this today, the images of the two different phones came into play. The old faith and the new faith are still one faith. It’s still the same God on the line. It’s just the way of communication differs.

Old Faith

Romans 4:1-8

What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.  Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.  But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.  Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,  Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.  Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin.

Old Testament faith was still faith even though they were keepers of the law. Or attempted keepers of the law.  613 of them. I can’t keep ten! Nor could they, so a sacrifice was put into place that would be used year after year. Lamb after lamb. Slain as a picture of the Lord Jesus Christ on the cross. Did they know that’s what it was? I don’t guess. But they knew it was God’s design and their only hope at the time; and that it all pointed, somehow, some way to the coming Messiah that they hoped for.

Every generation from the days of Adam hoped for.

I think of that old phone as the Old Testament way of communication with God. There was a line you had to go through. The Priest would go into the Holy of Holies and God and he would converse about what the people needed to know. Then he would deliver the message. We too experience that some through the preaching of the Word of God. But the difference is we too can receive a word. That should make you shout! That’s a privilege Old Testament, average Joe’s or Jolene’s didn’t experience.

When God showed up on the mountain, the children of Israel told Moses to go and talk to Him on the mountain. They feared God way too much to want to hear from Him direct.

Exodus 20:18-19

And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off. And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die.

Have you ever felt that fearful of God? Why or why not?

I must wonder if some Christians still fear God’s voice. Many don’t even make the attempt at communication, or at least not very often.

New Faith

The words of David used in Romans 4 are from the book of Psalms 32:2

Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.  Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.  When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long. For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah. I acknowledge my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.  For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found: surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him.  Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.  I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee. Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about.  Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.

David experienced God in a way few people did then, or do now.

Why do you think that was so?

It certainly wasn’t because he was perfect. He acknowledges that he’s a sinner.

Romans 3:23 says

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

David wasn’t sin free, he was bold in his confession because he wanted a right relationship with the Lord. He knew his relationship wasn’t right because he felt the heaviness of God upon him.

Have you felt that? What was going on at the time? Likely something that shouldn’t have been going on at the time. It’s not a feeling we like but we should love it, because it tells us that we’re saved.

Salvation comes from repentance.

David received his forgiveness and a renewed relationship with God when he repented, acknowledged what he did and turned away from it.

We too should be so bold!

Bold Faith

David’s relationship with God caused him to take some actions. He trusted God’s guidance for war, or not having war. He composed writings and songs, he played music and was a mighty leader when his relationship was right with God. He was bold!

Are you bold in the faith? If not why?

Few in the Faith

As time goes on, our churches seem to be dwindling in size and number. I pass empty church houses with grown up lawns everywhere I go. It makes my heart heavy and very sad. Because I know at one point there may have been a thriving congregation in that place. But they lost their zeal and their desire to serve God. They also lost the best thing that ever happened to them.

I love missionaries and consider myself a missionary to the United States. When I see folks with burdens for other countries I wonder… when will some get a burden for our own.

I have that.

In just a little over a month I’m traveling to New Mexico to minister in two different churches, if not more. I’m praying the Lord opens doors for me there to encourage the believers to be bold in their faith!

For this trip I ask that you’ll pray too. Pray that God will give me words and songs and that a great Spirit of revival will come upon that place. Pray for our safe travels and pray that our expenses are met.

I’m booked believing that we can’t out give God.

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Church attendance, Church Unity

Mutual Faith

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Mutual Faith

For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. ~ Romans 1:11-12

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It’s what’s kept me going for 23 years. I believe with all my heart that it is the most undervalued superpower of the church today. It’s why pews are sitting empty and saints of God are living defeated lives. God never intended for us to go through this alone. Even He had 12 friends.

Mutual faith is a beautiful thing. Let me tell you what it looks like in my life.

Mutual Desire

On Sunday morning I’m with the local church. A body of believers that I stand doctrinally in agreement with. We don’t argue. Haven’t for the 23 years I’ve been there, (which for some churches is unfathomable). We’ve not argued because we’ve had strong leadership and a mutual desire to keep Christ as the Head of the church. He’s in charge, then we fall in line accordingly – Pastor – Deacons – Church.

If everyone is doing what they’ve been designed to do, you don’t want to do what someone else has been called to do.

On Saturday my heart begins to desire my Sunday morning time with God’s people. It’s genuine and I know that I’m called to serve in that place in my multiple positions. I don’t want anyone else’s! Believe me, God has placed enough on my plate. That’s what He does when you share His mutual desires.

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Mutual Foundation

When Victory Baptist church was established in 1992, it came to be out of heartache. A church split that was never desired, causing division among God’s people, which was never intended. I came on board 4 years later. After the dust had settled.

I came in from a church that had been established for decades. A church that loved each other but had lost their mutual desire. There was no Kingdom purpose. No foundation. (I don’t say that lightly) it makes my stomach turn to think about it. But it is unfortunately what is happening to most churches of today.

The foundation of the church is to edify the body and seek souls to be saved. Victory was built on soul winning, something we too have lost sight of over the years. It’s easy to get complacent and become very comfortable with those we have.

Peter sent thousands out from Pentecost. Can you imagine? These people in Rome were of that lot and they were excited, and Paul was excited to meet them. He loved where he was, but he desired to go where he had not been.

That’s a lesson for us! I so desire to go where I have not been.

Mutual Faith

It doesn’t matter where I go, I find those of mutual faith. Or perhaps God sends them my way. I seldom ever go anywhere that I don’t meet up with God’s children.

My husband David and I went on the hunt of yard sales in the city last weekend and low and behold, one after another I met with God’s people. What a blessing!

I drew strength from them. They perhaps did not even know it. Or maybe they too drew strength from me.

By the same token at those sales I also met people that my soul bore witness that they did not know Christ. I feel like I missed the boat because I didn’t take the time to tell them about Jesus. I have friends who you’ll not be in their presence, but a few minutes and you’ll know that they have come to tell you about Jesus. They do it unashamedly, with bold conviction!

I have bold conviction, and a big mouth. I know that I’m failing to use my spiritual gift to do what God designed me to do. Tell the world about Jesus… better.

I don’t take lightly the web platform, after all, how many people has Paul reached and continues to reach for the cause of Christ through the written word. It too is a superpower. The point is, there is not only safety in numbers there is power in numbers! Together we are an amazing team.

I pray this has encouraged you! Feel free to share it and invite people to your church. Let them know you’re a part of a great team too!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism, Life Inspiration, Uncategorized

A Portion of My Cup (and Dewey’s)

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on A Portion of My Cup (and Dewey’s)

For the greater portion of my ministry, which I feel officially began in 2010 when I really felt the Lord’s calling on me to be full time ministry, I really didn’t know what that ministry looked like. Couple that with my Pastor’s (at the time) response, who said to me when I announced that thought, “You can’t preach, Shari,” I was perplexed. I had truly never given preaching a thought. I hadn’t given anything a thought; I just knew that’s what God said. But I was ever so directionally challenged.

Bible College had trained me to outline, write and speak. Wonderful mentors had taught me how to share the saving grace of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit revealed to me my calling and I was set to go forward, but unfortunately in an utter state of confusion.

Throughout these years God has sent opportunities in abundance to serve. One such opportunity is the FGGAM.org ministry. A news, views and avenues of faith and life topics to keep your mind focused on God. It’s Co-founder, Dewey Moede, has become one of my greatest friends and ministry partner’s over the past seven of my nine years. He has been a large portion of the cup which the Lord has given me to drink from. Dewey and I share 3 ministry drives that I want to share with you today in hopes of encouraging you to find your place in the ministry.

Psalm 16:5

The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.

Everything for God’s Glory

That’s Dewey’s life goal and ministry mission. He and his wife Sharon (co-founder number 2) named their ministry For God’s Glory Alone, when Dewey walked away from the security of a very nice income, to live on Sharon’s nursing salary and faith. Those life decisions and that sold out faith is what brings glory to God’s name. It’s a given opportunity to share with the world that our Lord provides. He maintains our lot.

It’s the same purpose and drive that causes me to continue on the Jesus Chick Mission, believing that God’s provisions will take me through till Jesus’ return, or He calls me home.

 You can find more information on giving a worthy contribution to their 501c3 ministry on the www.FGGAM.org website. And by the way… any contribution to the Jesus Chick will be of the utmost appreciation. For information on what my expense are, and if you’d like to contribute for the direct expenses, click here.

Anything for God’s People

I’m a born encourager. So is brother Dewey. It’s why we work so well together. If he has a down day, my words encourage him, if I have a down day, the same holds true with his words. We speak most every day in one form or another, via phone or text. His ministry has needs that I can provide through the gifts of artistic expression and graphic work that God has enabled me to do. It’s a privilege. He promotes and supports my ministry, and together we’ve become quite the duo for Jesus. FGGAM provides me the opportunity to help a brother out and in the process minister to the world through the banners and graphics I provide.

In this “all about me world,” even Christians have lost sight of the fact that we’re here to help each other out through this life. Anything God has given us the ability to do, we need to share it with God’s people.

Philippians 2:4

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Nothing Without Accountability

Another great ministry attribute of FGGAM.org and one I hold to with TheJesusChick.com.

Matthew 12:36

But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.

That’s the Word of God, and it’s a very scary word (or it should be) for those who don’t take it seriously. What we understand as ministry partners is that our convictions are more than just “notions,” they’re founded on the word of God. When we speak it, we want those who read our material to know that we’ve backed it up by the Word of God, and the resources that we’ve used for information gathering are trustworthy and honest.

When I stand at the throne of Christ, I want to hear Him say, “Well done thou good and faithful servant!” I don’t want to hear Him say, “Seriously Shari, what were you thinking?”

I hope these three attributes are a part of your life, and I pray that our ministries edify you as we’re instructed to do!

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

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

Real Life Struggles of the Jesus Chick

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Real Life Struggles of the Jesus Chick

It seems so absolute petty, and so very vain. And as I told someone sarcastically this week “I’m sure it compares with the starving in Africa.” But today it is a struggle.

My knee accident and treatment continues to be a major issue in my life. Mainly because it’s so discouraging. I have so much I want and need to do in the ministry and in life and not being able to walk with grace, and sometimes at all, really throws a kink in that plan!

We had a very cold rainy weekend and it through my arthritic body into a tizzy. It threw a temper tantrum like a toddler. It wasn’t going anywhere! I made it to church Sunday morning (in flats!) Oh the horror! J And didn’t make it at all Sunday night. Actually didn’t make it off the couch. Monday morning came and my hopes of being better were greater until midafternoon and I derailed again with knee pain. I only lasted two innings into the tee ball game and had to come home.

My beautiful beige high heels that I longed to wear to church on Sunday morning taunt me from the corner while my “sensible flats” smirk with glee. I know it sounds so petty. But what it is, is discouraging. How did I get here and what am I going to do about it?

It isn’t so much about the heels, which I’m truly not that vain, I just like them, but it’s more about the fact that life is taking a toll on my ministry work. And though I know that it didn’t catch God off guard, and perhaps He truly is trying to slow me down before another heart attack, but I feel that it’s Satan trying to thwart my efforts. And I must fight back!

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” PHIL. 4:13

That’s the verse that was on my mind this morning as I thought about those sensible shoes. I don’t want to be sensible. I’ve never been sensible in my life, ask anyone who knows me!

I want to jump and watch the Holy Spirit’s net catch me from afar knowing that I walked in faith. In pretty shoes! I know it doesn’t compare to the problems in the lives of other people who are facing tragedies. I know it’s silly. But faith is faith. For silly shoes, or  surgery. I have to be able to trust my Lord.

Now He may say. “Shari, it’s just shoes, wear the flats.” And if He says that I’m fine and I’ll be grateful I can walk, there are people who cannot. But if He says, “those shoes look marvelous darling.” I’m going to be ready.

This is my point for you and me today. The Word of God is truth from the first word in Genesis to the last word in Revelation. And “all” means “all.”

But “through” also means “through.” I have to do it all through Christ. It’s from Him that I’m going to receive the strength, and that strength may or may not be in my knee, it may be in my Spirit.

When people quote Philippians 4:13 they’re often doing it through the flesh and not through the Spirit. Because they want something so bad, they believe it’s what Christ wants too, and that may or may not be the case.

So what I understand from my silly little drawing this morning is I can do ALL things that Christ wants me to do. Including wear shiny shoes if that be His desire.

Does Christ think about shiny shoes? Well He adorned the angels in shiny attire, I truly think it matters. But what matters most is that I keep priorities in check.

Shiny shoes mean nothing, if Christ isn’t in the story.

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Purpose

Stepping Into the Unknown

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Stepping Into the Unknown

When I think of the Bible characters that stepped into the unknown at the instruction of the known, my heart is encouraged. When I get ready to take my first step, it’s always a flutter. It’s usually followed by nausea and fever blisters. Weird right? That’s what stress and nerves do to me. Once I get past the first step and start walking on the new ground I settle in pretty quickly. But those first steps often feel like a cliff.

When Abraham stepped out of the Ur of Chaldees he may or may not have felt a little apprehension. The Bible just says he went. But in the book of Shari it will say, see went… but she didn’t feel good.

When Moses was told to step into the leadership role of Israel, He argued with the Lord that he wasn’t very good with a bullhorn. So God gave him a mouth piece named Aaron. But it didn’t take him out of the role of leader.

When God made David King, he was in one of the lowest positions of the day, a shepherd boy. But God used all that position to make him a mighty defender and a man who could lead people with the same passion he lead sheep.

When Christ picked “Team Jesus” from the crowd, He picked a variety of twelve characters with a variety of talents. We know their names 2,000 years later because of the impact they had in their work.

I just wrote myself happy.

I’ve never really got to experience a comfort zone, because God is always doing something in my life. Sometimes it’s because He’s fixing what I broke, and that’s very uncomfortable! Today is no different. A new ministry direction is on the horizon with doing things I’ve had a passion to do for 20 years. But this time it’s on God’s terms. So it makes me feel a little better about taking the first step.

I hope that in sharing my thoughts on my zone, that maybe it will help you navigate yours a little better.

Please make the following a matter of prayer when it comes to the new Jesus Chick direction:

  • That God would open the doors (not Shari)
  • God provides a team of people with a passion for the work.

The work will focus on the following areas:

  • Promoting the Gospel (always first and foremost)
  • Youth programs
  • Adult programs
  • Women’s programs
  • Senior programs
  • Substance abuse educations programs

That would be why I need a team. There is a huge amount of work on my plate. But I want to reach as many people as I can with this ministry and give them the tools to reach more.

Big Step… but I’m ready.