Tag: God

Posted in Christian Service, Church attendance, Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration, salvation

Elementary Faith is in Living Color!

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Elementary Faith is in Living Color!

My thoughts this morning went back fifty plus years. To a singlewide trailer, first at Leatherbark, WV (my earliest memory) 1966 ish and to another that sat on the bank of Duck Creek in 1969. Three bedrooms filled to the brim with not only five children and my parents, but multiple guests every weekend, Sunday’s were spent in church at Leatherbark and then Strange Creek. We moved to the big city a couple of years later to a house on 3211 Spruce Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia, and attended a little church on Murdock Avenue that might have held fifty people and has long since been torn down and replaced with “progress.” My parents moved every couple of years from the time they were married in the 1950’s until our family landed in Calhoun County in the 1970’s. It was here we stayed where my Father became Assessor and my Mother a social worker. The church I grew up in was Mt. Zion Methodist. That’s a brief history for the purpose of pointing you to the common thread in those georgraphical facts which was that there was never not a church involved in our move.

When I married, church was not a priority in my life until I had children; and then only because it seemed like the “thing I should do.” Scroll to 1996, the year of my salvation and that common thread once again ran through my fabric and hasn’t left. Up until 1996, I would say the thread was black and white like the old television screen. Constant but not very focused and a lot of static. In 1996 my faith became living color. It was literally as if a light had been turned on inside my dark brain and life suddenly made sense.

Faith in Living Color! That’s such a vivid image.

Discover the Difference! That was the theme of Victory Baptist Church when I joined there in 1996. There was assuredly a difference. God was celebrated every Sunday and the purpose of the people was to worship in Spirit and in truth. I had never experienced the Spirit moving like it was there. The church was not only in living color it was charged to a neon level of excitement.

1 Corinthians 3:16-23 KJVS
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? [17] If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. [18] Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. [19] For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. [20] And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. [21] Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; [22] Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; [23] And ye are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s.

Do you know Who you Are?

[16] Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

It’s ironic that through the Spirit of God, even though He was not dwelling in me until 1996, I knew at the age of nine that I was meant for more. Now, I thought of that in a worldly sense. But that’s not what God had in mind. I was somebody, but not until I repented and gave that body to Christ. It was then all my childhood dreams became reality. I was content at being me, but then God gave me more. I became a singer, a speaker, a teacher, and God placed mentors all along the way. I had confidence never before experienced. It was amazing! But that’s my God!

Do you know You are Holy?

[17] If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.

It is only through God that you are Holy, but if you are saved, you are Holy. In Old Testament times, God set aside everything in the temple with purpose. Every vessel was fabricated to specific details and was to be used in the service for which they were created. Hello? Will that preach or what? When I said I was nine and having covernations with God, that’s no joke. At that tender age God put a desire in my heart that He would later stir up through His Spirit and I became the Jesus Chick. A vessel of purpose in the Kingdom of God. And don’t think that it’s not been a battle. Satan has tried to pull me out of the house of God multiple times and many times almost succeeded. Satan knows if he can get me out of the service of the Lord, where people have seen me shine, I’ll be tarnished and unworthy for service.

Do you know what you were created to do?

[18] Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. [19] For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. [20] And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.

I have never been the brightest crayon in the box, nor could I sing or speak in public prior to salvation. It wasn’t that i didn’t have the ability, I didn’t have the confidence or the skill. I am fully well aware that God gifted me and anoints me when I get up before people to do what I do. If I can get out of my head, and not allow the old Shari to creep back in that views an audience/congregation as eyes of judgement rather than souls in need. The wisdom of this world tells me I am less, The Spirit tells me I am all that’s needed in Christ.

Not everyone does what I do. But you have a gift and a purpose of God. Your gift may or may not be unlocked before or after salvation. Because mine was not, I knew it wasn’t intended to be used without the Spirit of God guiding it.

Do you know why you were created to do it?

[21] Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; [22] Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; [23] And ye are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s.

A child of God is set apart from the world and yet, in the world. I have struggled with that concept for many years. The world is a harsh reality and can distract the mind to the point that the Spirit is drowned out. It’s made it’s way into the church which is why the vast majority are dead. They’re listening to a demonic notion that its fine to worship the created but not the Creator. It’s fine to trust man, but not the Spirit of God. Education is inspiration but the Spirit of God is a loss of control.

Do you think I sound bitter?

You may be right. I’ve had it up to my eyeballs with dead religion, a world educated to the point of idiocy when they dare ask me to believe man and woman are debatable, and a church sits idle with out so much as a breath of support for the Lord Jesus Christ outside the walls of the church. We’ve allowed the concept of public education to take over Spiritual guidance by the Lord Jesus Christ. I may be bitter, but I believe I’m better for it. Because it’s brought me to the realization that I must do what the Spirit leads me to do and I much search for the truth of the Spirit. Of course there’s a deceptive spirit in the world that would love to get me off kilter… But if I continue in His word, I’ll be fine. The word tells me that there was a group of believers that were excited and that turned the world upside down. I want to be that person. I want to follow the Spirit where He leads me. And if the church wants to sit in the pew like a knot on a log… well, I guess they’ll just be knot heads for Jesus. My children and grandchildren will see that God has never been been black and white but He is Living Color!

God bless ya! And Stay Alive!!!!

Posted in Church Unity, Eternity, Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Praise

Why would you want to hang out with dead people?

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I was shocked when he said it. I cannot point you to the YouTube video, I kind of watched it in disbelieve and then moved on. But the thought kept being triggered in my mind. I’m not even sure what else he was reporting on, but he very nonchalantly said something about being apart of the dead Episcopalian church. Why would you want to hang out with dead people?

I have little tolerance over dead churches. It’s not that I don’t love the people. But the Lord deserves so much more! What kind of glory does it bring to the Lord when lifeless people, for whom God jerked from the bowels of Hell when they were saved, sit there like knots on a log?

Should We Finish Them Off?

That was his Disciples approach when, on his way to Jerusalem He stopped by a village of Samaritans. But they didn’t receive him.

Luke 9:51-58 KJVS
And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem, [52] And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. [53] And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. [54] And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? [55] But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. [56] For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. And they went to another village. [57] And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. [58] And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.

The disciples were going to wipe them off the face of the earth like Sodom and Gomorrah! I don’t know that I’ve ever been that frustrated with the dead church, but I may have been close a time or two. But these people were not the dead church, they were completely dead. Unsaved. My grandson Logan when he was a toddler would shoot you with his imaginary gun and if you attempted to come back to life he would say “You’re dead dead.” That’s what the unsaved are, they’re going to die twice. Dead dead. (Revelation 21:7-8)

Jesus rebuked them. He didn’t come to destroy, he came to save. Is that not our focus? It should be. Our first and foremost concern should be the salvation of souls. Pulling others out of Hell. If it’s not then we’re off kilter as a church. No matter how much knowledge you have or how holy you are, if your focus is not on the souls of men, you don’t understand why God sent you.

Should We Have their Funeral?

Luke 9:59-62 KJVS
[59] And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. [60] Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. [61]

Jesus wasn’t heartless. But He was telling this individual, taking care of the dead, is not your concern. We came to care for the living! I must say, there have been some funerals that I have thoroughly enjoyed. The person was saved, the family (tho sad) rejoiced in their home going. They understood that the person in the casket had graduated to a higher place of pure joy! But we were not meant to hang out with the dead, we should be concerned with seeing the living saved before they too lie in that casket.

I got somewhat of a second wind this week when I went for the results of my stress test and my doctor was as shocked as I was that the results were good! He knew and I knew that I had been treating my body like Romper Room and snack time, not the Temple of God. It reminded me that God will not always have mercy on my stupidity. Nor will He always allow me another opportunity to share the gospel. He’ll not always give dead churches an opportunity to live. Sometimes He’ll just let them die till the pews sit empty and their purpose is gone. Like Tucker Carson’s church.

Should We Tell Them Goodbye?

And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. [62] And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

When I left the first dead church, I didn’t know I was leaving. I went to visit a church and never left. At first it was the message of conviction that I was missing the purpose of my life. That God had created me to be His child and His servant and I had missed out on decades of joy by not knowing the truth of Salvation. The church I left didn’t understand why I left. There was a woman from the church showed up months later at my home with a gift because she had been my secret sister. She was weeping because I was no longer in the church. As a young naive new convert I thought, “I didn’t know you cared?” I didn’t know anyone in that church cared because they were dead! Well… all but a few. I didn’t tell them goodbye because I really, truly, without a doubt thought they didn’t know I existed. If you feel that in your church, don’t just walk out… run!

Can they be Resuscitated?

I guess that depends on if they’re dead, dead? Having a heart attack? Or playing dead?

The church I left was dead, dead. They were so dead they didn’t even know they were dead.

What about one in the process of having their heart attacked? They’re convinced they’re doing right. But Satan has blinded them to the fact that they are one step out of the grave and unless someone steps up and breathes new life into them, they’re gone. That is so very many churches. They’re going through the motions, but they’re not seeing any new lives in the church and there is for certain no joy.

Who wants to play dead? Your part of the game is over. You are no longer being used for the Kingdom of God but you’re just a pew sitter that will slowly but surely fade off into Heaven. I want to be the person alive and well, playing the game and bringing as many people into the church of God as I possibly can. The more the merrier! If you’re satisfied with your four and no more you have no clue how to play the game of life.

Can they be resuscitated? I hope so. But it will likely take a few cracked ribs and somebody else breathing life into them.

Not a very cheery message, but I pray it shocked someone into rhythm! Glory to God sing and shout His praises if He saved your soul!!

Posted in Evangelism, Life Inspiration, Political, testimony

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

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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, Life Inspiration, Praise, Purpose, Word of God

Praise God the Spirit Lives in Me!

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When I say “I am of the opinion.” I most certainly have an opinion. A strong one. But God forbid that it doesn’t line up with His. This is my struggle. While I pray I’m always open to His leading to get me on track, I am more than aware of my human nature and the probability that I could be wrong. So doubt is an easy emotion for someone to prey on. My issues with opinion concerns are generally over things that I am very passionate about, and when someone strikes against my opinion in a way that makes me feel less than intelligent because I have my very strong opinion, my struggle goes deeper.

Knowing what I know about spiritual struggles, I’ll go to the only One who can set me straight. The Word and the Spirit of God.

The Protector of my Mind

Ephesians 6:17 KJVS
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

As a young girl I had a vivid imagination as one might imagine. One of the story lines that I continually fabricated in my mind was that of being a young girl of stature. One with “people.” Advisors and protectors that surrounded me because people wanted to know what I had to say. That probably seems strange for a young girl to think in that way, but as I have previously noted on the Jesus Chick site, my hopes and aspirations as a young girl was to be a speaker. Not a singer, or a person of fame, but a person who people wanted to listen to because I had something to say. God allowed that vision to come true in a different way, not one of stature in this world, but one of a notable position in Heaven.

When salvation came, and the Holy Spirit began living in me and through me, I had a confidence and a wisdom that was never in the fabric of my make up until then. I continued to struggle with the difference between confidence and arrogance. I loathed arrogance. It was that attitude from others that made me feel less, and I determined in my heart that if I was ever allowed to be “somebody” in the Kingdom of God, I’d never make anyone feel less. No where in the scripture is an attribute of God arrogance, confidence, yes.

As years turned into decades my experience with the Word of God and the Spirit of God was a familiar friend. Wisdom came from His Word, Understanding came from the Spirit. Clarity of subject matters came from His Word, guidance, purpose and the ability to discern and teach the Word of God came from the Spirit. That Sword helped me fight the battles I had from worldly attacks on my mind, and they were many.

The Piercer of my Soul and Spirit

Hebrews 4:12 KJVS
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.

My youngest daughter calls me often asking for advice, telling me that I am her moral compass. She too has a passion that sometimes gets her in trouble. Mostly her mouth. I can advise her because she didn’t get it from anyone strange and I have more practice. But the Word and the Spirit are my go to’s. As I faced this current battle, I cried out to God asking for His wisdom. Asking Him to shield me from the flesh that had tears in my eyes and a clinched fist. Spiritual fights are every bit as real as the physical.

I knew the intent of my heart was not prove someone wrong and me right. I wanted only to know the truth. I wanted the doubt gone that had cast a shadow over the Spirit in my life, accusing me of a mind’s lie, not the Holy Spirit’s speaking. I was angry for God. And I felt the Word of God piercing my soul and Spirit. “You know it’s Me Shari.”

John 10:27 KJVS
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

In John’s scripture, he tells of the religious Jews desiring to stone Jesus. They accused Him of blaspheme because He dare say He was God. They did not believe He was God and thought only they knew the truth. That is arrogance at its finest.

The Property of God

Romans 8:9 KJVS
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

Just as the anger and tears welled up on me today, the peace of God has just overwhelmed my soul in this brief study. The Word is an unchanging guide that backs up what the Spirit reveals to me. The Spirit speaks just as the Word does. If others have not experienced the Spirit in the same manner as I have, that is between them and God, I judge no one on their relationship with God.

1 Corinthians 2:11 KJVS
For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

Only I can know what I feel. And only God knows what He reveals to any man or how He works through any man.

I sat in a completely full 2,000 seat theatre in Lancaster, Pennsylvania this week watching “Moses.” A live theatre performance. I was in full judgement mode in a comedic way inside my mind, trying to determine what denomination I believed some of the people to be by the way they dressed, spoke and acted. I sat with my bestie Gloria on one side and to the other side was a woman I believed to be Apostolic because her hair was up and she wore a skirt. To the other side of Gloria was a man that could have been a member of any church, just your average Joe. Behind us was a group of gossiping, complaining, judgmental women that clearly enjoyed their time of sharing the failures of their family, another from any church USA. In front of us was a family that I’m not sure they even went to church because they made no mention of it, and were enjoying their family outing. In front of them was a woman that caused me to remember a sermon that Walter Truss preached at Victory Baptist about a Pentecostal woman in his previous church, for which the Bishop called out because her bosoms were falling out. I said all that to say this. I know nothing about how the Spirit dealt with any one of them as they watched the story of Moses play out. But I know how the Spirit dealt with me. I am chosen. I am that voice for God that I longed to be as a child. He is my Protector, my Piercer, and I am His Property. No man knows what the Spirit does in me, but I sure do.

Questions or comments? Find me on Facebook, message me at (304)377-6036 or talk2shari@gmail.com.

Posted in Life Inspiration

Things that Ruffle my Feathers

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Are you like me, in that I heap condemnation upon myself, until I am buried under the weight of it all and unable to walk in the newness of Christ because I’m carrying the old crap around? Perhaps it’s just me. Throughout my 60 years of life on earth I have allowed others in my life to make me feel like a dirt dog. I don’t know that it was ever their intention, but they did it through a comment, an attitude of righteousness, a haughtiness, anything that made me feel less, or under their scrutiny. It still happens today, especially with people who yield their righteousness like a caped crusader for Jesus.

Romans 8:1-2 KJVS
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. [2] For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

Who’s Condemning Me?

Christ? No, it says that there is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus. So what exactly is condemnation. In the 1828 Webster’s dictionary it says that being condemned is to pronounce that one is utterly wrong, to blame, or to even go so far as to include the idea of utter rejection. Hello? Welcome to Shari 101. That’s how I feel so very often when I am in the presence of people of stature, position or worldly intelligence. I say worldly because people of Spiritual intelligence, generally speaking have spiritual wisdom, but not always. They too can run the risk of allowing their wisdom of the word to lack spiritual discernment in others.

When God began revealing His word to me, nobody was more shocked than myself. Who am I that God would speak such deep truths to my soul? And when I say deep, it’s not the depth of a person of great conviction to the study of God’s word. It’s just that God speaks deep truth’s to even silly people sometimes. Because He will use the foolish to confound the wise. It’s bible. Look it up!

So back to that feeling of condemnation. Where does it come from? It comes from the flesh. Both the flesh of others and the flesh of me. The flesh of others when they get on a high horse, and the flesh of me when I allow them to convince me I am less. I know this because the scripture said it, there is “no condemnation” in Jesus. So it comes from man.

Who’s Calling me Out?

Christ for certain will call me out when I sin. But my sins are generally not so bold and brazen to be committed in the eyes of others, so I don’t really have anyone calling me out for sins. What I have is people who call me out for having an opinion. I know this will come as a complete shock to people, but I am highly opinionated. I have a tendency to share what’s on my heart, and in so doing, it often ruffles the feathers of the people I give my opinion to. And the one thing I am highly opinionated on above all else is the Spirit of God and His work in my life. It’s never gotten old. It’s never NOT been exciting. But for some people, it’s just not that way. And for the love of all things Holy, I can’t understand it, but I don’t judge their lack of spirituality. I just assume they’ve missed the freedom part. But when people judge me for my Spirit, for me it’s as if they’re judging God. And I struggle. I struggle to the point of despair. Which is where I’ve been. It takes every fiber in my being to keep going some days, and that’s not me.

Who Want’s to be Dead?

Evidently some people do. I don’t know if it’s piousness or pride that causes a person to look down on another who “feels” deeper than they do. And I’m not above being in error about the whole thing. I just don’t understand it. Walter Truss, a preacher and friend who has gone onto glory spoke often about the “Church of the Frigid-Air.” I’ve been in many. My friend Tracy Miller always told me to just sing my heart out and find the one person that “get’s it.” They’re usually nodding to the beat, with a big ol’ grin on the their face and they’re happy to be there!

Not everybody gets it. Not everybody get’s me. And that’s okay. But I know for certain, I don’t want to die until I’m dead; and then, I’ll get it first hand how God wants me to act in service. I’ll bet it ain’t quiet.

Posted in Life Inspiration, Life's Failures, Purpose

God is Always Good, But Good is not Always God?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on God is Always Good, But Good is not Always God?

It began as a conversation in our Sunday School Class this week, and it’s been on my mind ever Gsince. A comment was made “God is Always good, but good is not always God.” It’s caused me great ponderance. I am one that believes that God has placed every soul on this earth for a purpose. I believe that because of Jeremiah 1:5 – Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

That scripture was of course spoken to Jeremiah, not Shari. However, if God knew Jeremiah, He knew Shari too. And if God ordained Jeremiah to be a prophet to the nations, God had a plan for me. That doesn’t mean I followed it. He gave me free will to do what ever it was that I determined to do. And I can tell you from the heart, I have not always followed God’s plan. Because God doesn’t make mistakes, and I’ve made plenty. Now let’s get back to the statement made.

“God is Always good, but good is not always God.”

I have never questioned that I had a good purpose on this earth. I still don’t question it. I believe that God intended for me to make a difference for Him. But the thought that, of the good I do, it may not always be of God, perplexed my heart. Perplexed from the definition of “at a loss for a way.” Much of my life is lived in a very worldly sense. I publish a secular newspaper, from a conservative Christian viewpoint, but I’m covering many things about the world. I serve as Secretary in the Republican party, I serve there because I believe that is where the Christians voice is heard, not that every Republican is Christian. I believe if we are not in those positions, there is wickedness waiting to fill the void. I volunteer in countless ways in the community, always with a heart of service and with the hope that someone will see my heart as the heart of Christ. I speak to my children often about the things they do and the direction they’re taking “how does it look with relation to eternity?” But now I’m asking myself, of the things that I do, what good are they in the eyes of Christ?

Romans 8:28 KJV says
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

No doubt one of the most popular verses quoted. Can it be twisted and used out of context? Of course, but let’s read it in context. Meaning, reading the words that lead into it.

Romans 8:26-29 KJVS
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. [27] And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. [28] And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. [29] For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

The Spirit helps and God knows my infirmities. Especially right now when this ponderance has caused me to question my own motives. Which is a good thing, because I seek truth in the matter. Just as the scripture reads, I don’t even know how to pray right now. I feel the groaning. The frustration that this world has become so dark, it’s hard to find the light in it at all.

The Rationale of the Ridgeview

This is how I’m working out the rationale for how I live, you can apply the same to how you live. As I said, it’s a secular newspaper from a conservative viewpoint. Born from the necessity of only having liberal coverage of local news and from the standpoint that nobody was holding anybody accountable. My grandchildren had become victims of the school system’s self governance (which didn’t exist as far as I was concerned). Nor did it exist in the County Government. For too long they’d been allowed to treat people poorly and keep our county poor. Now… where does that bide in the scope of eternity? Will it matter?

In Luke 16 there is the story of a conversation between Jesus and the Pharisees.

Luke 16:14-15 KJVS
And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him. [15] And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.

Jesus knew the heart of the Pharisees and the heart of His people now. They did what they did for show, and when it says that they derided Him it meant that they expressed contempt for Him. They hated that He called them out.

Luke 17:1-3 KJVS
Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come! [2] It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. [3] Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.

John Gill’s commentary on those verses said “it is impossible but that offences will come; considering the decree of God, the malice of Satan, the wickedness of men, the corruption both of their principles and practices, that which will be trying to the faith of the saints, and a stumblingblock to weak minds, as reproach and persecution, errors, and heresies, and the evil lives of professors:”

There are people in the world who thrive on doing evil to people that they consider weak, or opposition in their lives. No matter if it’s children or adults. Jesus said if a brother (another Christian) trespass against thee, rebuke him but also forgive him if he turns from his ways. That’s easily enough understood, but what about if it’s in the secular sense? And they’re not turning from their wicked ways but rather wreaking havoc in our community.

Romans 16:17-19 KJVS
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. [18] For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. [19] For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.

Mark them. Make them known so that those who are weak, or uninformed don’t fall to the lies or deceit of others. Paul is speaking to the church, but the church is living in the world. I see it as Ridgeview’s job to warn people of the evil in our community. Paul said in Romans 12:9-11 KJV – “Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. [10] Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; [11] Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;”

Cleave (hold on!) to what is good, but take care of business. That was Paul’s advice. God knows that we have to make a living. And our “living” should line up with scripture. God doesn’t approve of prostitution as a living any more than he does a man or woman who makes money through other non reputable means. One of the issues that our community had was there was no checks and balance for how government operated. The government is suppose to answer to the people (the community); but the community had become apathetic to local government shenanigans. If the people of God stand by and allow the weak to be taken advantage of, how will God react? When He arrived at the temple and they were taking advantage of people through the selling of unworthy sacrifice, Christ turned over the tables and ran them out with whips. It doesn’t look to me that God takes it lightly. I don’t think we should either.

God’s ultimate goal for us is to make us like Christ (1 John 3:2-3).

Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. [3] And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

As we become more and more like him, we discover our true selves, the persons we were created to be. How can we become like Christ”? By reading and heeding the Word, by studying his life on earth through the Gospels, by studying Romans through Philemon for our doctrine, and by doing God’s work in the World. We are His hands and feet. If the tables need turned over…

The Revolt of the Republicans

Up until a few years ago I never really had anything to do with politics. Politics had left a bad taste in my mouth many years ago. But as I began to follow conservative news I realized that whom ever coined the phrase, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing” was absolutely correct! That is how America became so evil. Good people did nothing. The church stayed on the sidelines and let somebody else play the game.

Politics for certain is a game. And many would say that Christians have no place in it. I can understand and respect that point of view, but I can’t live it myself. There are Republicans, Democrats, Libertarians, Independents and maybe a few others, but mainly for arguments sake there are two parties making a difference. Republican and Democrat. And they are both filled with evil people on the National level. I’m not a fan. But where difference is made is on the local level. With the hopes that we can change some of what’s going on, on the National level. Yes I am a cockeyed optimist. But if we idly stand by and let wicked takeover from our National level to the local, what will that do to the world we must live in until Christ returns. Are we supposed to hand it over to evil without debate?

That is why I joined the Republican Party, and I began looking for their leader. They didn’t have one! For years the Republican Party had been all but non existent. Out County is predominately Democrat. Many democrats with their head stuck in the sand ignoring what their National Party stands for. If they are unsaved, they already serve the Devil, but there are Christians stand with National leaders who say that aborting a child is okay, even if the child is removed – alive – from the womb and has its brains sucked out. Because it’s not a child until they say so. Remember my verse Jeremiah 1:5 – God said He knew me before I was born. Those people just killed one of God’s own whether it was in the womb or out of the womb. They are murderers and anyone who allows it is an accomplice. I make no apologies for that statement. God will hold everyone of us accountable.

Now, let’s throw the Republicans under the bus. Shelly Moore Capito is pro abortion. She will not have my vote. I’ll either find a pro lifer or I’ll leave it blank but my vote will not be by her name. There are others in the Republican Party that are the same way. But the Republican platform is against abortion. It’s the only platform that is. If we are going to be involved in this Nation and have a voice, we need a party. For me that was the Republicans.

Now what does God say about politics? Good question.

Romans 13:1-5 KJVS
Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. [2] Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. [3] For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: [4] For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. [5] Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

As a Christian we know there is no Higher Authority than God. But God ordained, created, the positions of having heads on earth to answer to. He began through the children of Israel. But the children of Israel wanted leaders like the world, so God gave them their desire by appointing Saul as the first King. Well, that didn’t go so well, as Saul determined he’d take on the role of the Priest too. So God removed him and anointed David as King over. David faced opposition right out of the gate but it didn’t change who God had put in charge. Today’s delegation and relegation looks far different than that of King David. But it still God’s plan that there be people in authority. Those people are elected by the people. Are they God’s. Maybe or maybe not. It seems the higher they go in position the more likely they are not. But again, it doesn’t change the plan or God’s intention to have His people make a difference in the world. For “conscience sake” we need to answer to the law where it does not violate God’s holiness. When it does violate God’s holiness, we need to stand on the side of right. That’s why we now have the issues we have in our nation, because very few fought for God, even though He died for everyone of us.

So back to the statement in question:

“God is Always good, but good is not always God.”

The Raised Eye Brow of Religion

Religion makes me want to puke. Religion is that hoity-toity bunch of people who may or may not be saved, but they have assumed that they are righteous and good because they’re a member in a very elite group. There are hoity-toity’s in every denomination. A relationship with Christ is usually on their terms, not His.

In Mark 10:18 KJV it says

And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.

Jesus asked this question of a man that run to him and asked in Mark 10:17 KJVS – “Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”

So Jesus questioned him, why are you calling me good. This was spoken at a time that works were still in view for the Jewish people and to help the man to recognize who Jesus was. If religious people understood how Holy God is, and how very unholy they are, they wouldn’t be looking down their nose at anyone.

So when it comes to my statement in question. Good can’t always be God because it’s done by man. Nor can it be perfect. All I can do is live my life in a constant relationship with Christ with regard to everything in my life. I cannot separate the Ridgeview, my politics or anything else I do because Christ is in me and I represent Him. I am only as good as Christ’s evidence in my life. Nothing of myself. Only Him. I am so imperfect it’s ridiculous, but my Lord, Who saved my soul and stands before God interceding for me as His child says Shari is good, because she is mine.”

Posted in Church attendance, Grace, Life Inspiration

Why will the Church be Empty on Sunday Morning?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Why will the Church be Empty on Sunday Morning?

It’s a question I ask myself most every Sunday morning. As I pass by churches… in going to my own… in watching services on line, why are there so few people in “most” area churches. There are indeed big churches with big congregations, but they are few and far between and many times unbiblical. So let’s just keep the question to our town… where ever your town is. Are the church’s full or empty? Odd’s are against them being full, but I’m a Baptist and Baptist don’t bet, (Yeah, I know that’s not true) so we won’t put any money on it. So the question is…. “Why are they empty?”

Likely for the same reason Isaiah had this discussion back in 739 to 631 when the book was written

Isaiah 29:1-14 KJVS
Woe to Ariel, to Ariel, the city where David dwelt! add ye year to year; let them kill sacrifices. [2] Yet I will distress Ariel, and there shall be heaviness and sorrow: and it shall be unto me as Ariel. [3] And I will camp against thee round about, and will lay siege against thee with a mount, and I will raise forts against thee. [4] And thou shalt be brought down, and shalt speak out of the ground, and thy speech shall be low out of the dust, and thy voice shall be, as of one that hath a familiar spirit, out of the ground, and thy speech shall whisper out of the dust.

A Whisper out of the Dust

That’s a nauseating thought for me this morning. Ariel was another name for Jerusalem. How many times had God been frustrated with Israel? How many times has He been frustrated with us? With me? Far too many times to count no doubt. But Israel wasn’t under grace, praise God we are! God’s words about heaviness and sorrow, and that it was to Him as it is to them, breaks my heart. The people that God went to the cross for, brought them through trial after trial, gave them miracle after miracle continually rebelled until there were so few they were a “whisper out of the dust.”

Does that sound anything like the church to you? No more than a whisper. Christianity that once stood mighty in the United States and shone itself brightly to the nations around us, is barely a whisper in the world today. How could anyone view this nation as a Christian Nation? But it’s easy to look on it and say, “oh but that’s a national issue.” Is it? It started in a little church somewhere when somebody didn’t stand up for God. When people started reprioritizing Sunday morning, Pastors stopped preaching on sin, Daddy’s and Momma’s didn’t take their kids to church and the kids grew up to be heathens and their parents wondered why. And those who stayed in church wonder why nobody is there, and they have but to look in the mirror. Self included. We are nothing but a whisper to the world. They can’t hear us.

A Collapse in the Dirt

[5] Moreover the multitude of thy strangers shall be like small dust, and the multitude of the terrible ones shall be as chaff that passeth away: yea, it shall be at an instant suddenly. [6] Thou shalt be visited of the Lord of hosts with thunder, and with earthquake, and great noise, with storm and tempest, and the flame of devouring fire. [7] And the multitude of all the nations that fight against Ariel, even all that fight against her and her munition, and that distress her, shall be as a dream of a night vision. [8] It shall even be as when an hungry man dreameth, and, behold, he eateth; but he awaketh, and his soul is empty: or as when a thirsty man dreameth, and, behold, he drinketh; but he awaketh, and, behold, he is faint, and his soul hath appetite: so shall the multitude of all the nations be, that fight against mount Zion.

I’m sure Israel, like us, thought that God would deliver them once again. But then destruction came upon them suddenly. All those that fight against Christianity have that same arrogance thinking that they’re winning the battle against us. They are so blatantly proud (pride) over their ability to pollute the minds of children that they openly brag about their victories. And we watch America collapse in the dirt. But just as Isaiah described in the dreams, they’re going to wake up one day and see that what they filled their minds and bellies on was nothing but a dream, and God will deliver the nightmare. I love God’s justice until I think about those who are caught up in it because the church didn’t fight for them. While I don’t believe in ramming the gospel down anyone’s throat, I do believe we should at least spoon feed it to them through taking it out to where they are. And yet, I do so very little.

If by some chance we do get them into the church, what then? Will they find hope and victory? That’s what I found when I arrived in February of 1996. But if I’m honest I have to tell you that I grow weary in this battle. Not against the enemy, but the church. Those who are saved and I feel like I have to drag them to Heaven with me. They’re not serving or fighting, they’re just sitting on their posterior ends waiting for Jesus to come back and get them. Well, what about the one’s that Jesus won’t be taking with Him. Are we concerned about them? The fact that they will be damned to an eternity in Hell?

The Burial

[9] Stay yourselves, and wonder; cry ye out, and cry: they are drunken, but not with wine; they stagger, but not with strong drink. [10] For the Lord hath poured out upon you the spirit of deep sleep, and hath closed your eyes: the prophets and your rulers, the seers hath he covered. [11] And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to one that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I cannot; for it is sealed: [12] And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I am not learned. [13] Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men: [14] Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, even a marvellous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid.

That’s a dreadful title, but truth none the less. We have Christians who say they don’t understand the scriptures, we have those who just won’t read it. And those are the church goers. Those out of the church may not even know where their Bible is if they have one at all. I distinctly remember finding the one my Dad gave to me that was so dry and dusty the cover was coming off because I didn’t pick it up. I was so ashamed. When I did start reading it, it became like well of water for my thirsty soul, I couldn’t get enough. I wanted it in every shape and form, preaching, teaching, reading, studying to understand. The Word still excites me like that. But if I don’t share what I’ve learned it dies with me.

If you want to know why the church sits empty this morning you’ll have to see where it is that you’re sitting. Are you in or are you out. If you’re in, are you excited about it, and are you sharing that zeal. If you’re out, and you say you are a child of God, explain that to an unsaved person. Explain it without having to say, I should be in church. Explain to that unsaved person how they need God, and you do not.

I have family and friends who are not saved. That burial scares me for them… “God fill our churches this morning and fill our hearts with a burden for the lost.”

Have a blessed week! From Shari, the Jesus Chick.

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

After a Great Storm, there is a Great Calm

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on After a Great Storm, there is a Great Calm

I, like I’m sure many of you, feel that I’m either coming out of a storm or going into one. There’s always turmoil somewhere in my life. But in between those times of torment there is this stillness that occurs where God seems to say, “Breathe Shari.” This morning is to that day, but I’m believing there’s one in the near future. It caused me to look to the scripture in Matthew 8 where Jesus calms the sea. But I noticed something new this morning as I read His words, “There came a great calm, after the great storm.” This caused me to have a few questions…

Am I Committed Enough to the Journey?

One of Jesus’ disciples had a storm on land. He’d lost his father. Most of us have been in a position where we’ve lost a family member. It’s a storm of the soul. If they’re saved, you know they’re in a better place, but the loss of them from our lives still isn’t easy. Many go through depression and depending upon who it is and what role they played in our lives there can even be anxiety. But what about life? It still goes on and so does the work of the ministry.

Matthew 8:21-29,31-34 KJVS
And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. [22] But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.

Jesus tells the disciple, leave it behind, we have work to do. Am I that committed that when someone in my life dies I can just say, “I meet you in the boat Lord!” Being committed isn’t easy but it is worth it. The disciple would have no doubt been in a state of grief, but immediately Jesus puts him back to work. I’m pretty sure the end result of that was a busy mind doesn’t have time to be depressed. Hello? I know I needed to hear that this morning what about you? Commitment may not be easy but it has its rewards!

Am I Complaining About the Journey?

[23] And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him. [24] And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. [25] And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish.

I have been lately. I’ve been telling the Lord on multiple occasions that I’m not real happy with the way things are going in my life. I’m pretty sure I’ve even told Him that I was going down with the ship! I’ve discussed jumping over board. But didn’t because I truly hate the water. And if I did jump ship, and the Lord was in the boat, who would catch me in the water? Is that a tad too metaphoric? Well, let me just say that even the Jesus Chick gets tired, hurt and frustrated with the state of the church.

Am I Compelled by the Journey?

[26] And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. [27] But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!

How many times has God previously calmed my storm. Great storms. Huge Storms! Does that compel me to go through this one with the expectation that it’s going to end the same? Jesus asked, not the people sitting on their hands in the pew, He asked His workers in the boat, the one’s who had been in the thick of it time and time again, where – is – your – faith? Before I tell Jesus I’m jumping ship, maybe I should sit in the boat and remember the other storms He’s brought me through. They may have been on land, but I still feel like I’m drowning. It’s the weakness of the flesh. But by reading God’s word today I am compelled to get back in the boat, shut my mouth and let God handle the storm.

Are You Comfortable in the Journey?

I had to ask you because I am certainly NOT comfortable in this journey. I am not content to sit and read my Bible when there are people struggling. It’s not enough to read the Word of God there has got to be some action behind it. Yes read it. Of course read it. But then act on it.

When Jesus got to the other side they weren’t met with coffee and cookies for a time of fellowship. They were met by two possessed men who needed help. And so He helped them. He helped the devil right out of the men and into the sea. That’s who belongs overboard, not me! Throw the devil out of this ship. And then His opposition came from the people, because He actually took action. I could stop there awhile, but I won’t. Let me just say that there is opposition in the boat and on land. And if you’re comfortable, it could be because you’re not throwing any devils out.

[28] And when he was come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, there met him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that way. [29] And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time? [31] So the devils besought him, saying, If thou cast us out, suffer us to go away into the herd of swine. [32] And he said unto them, Go. And when they were come out, they went into the herd of swine: and, behold, the whole herd of swine ran violently down a steep place into the sea, and perished in the waters. [33] And they that kept them fled, and went their ways into the city, and told every thing, and what was befallen to the possessed of the devils. [34] And, behold, the whole city came out to meet Jesus: and when they saw him, they besought him that he would depart out of their coasts.

Posted in Christmas, Purpose, Word of God, worship

Wisemen of the Word Trust the Source

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Wisemen of the Word Trust the Source

Twice this weekend I heard sermons on the Wise Men who visited the young Savior. Twice my heart was stirred to hear the old, old story. I grew up with so many traditional theories of the Wise Men. I grew up seeing the typical, Caucasian, Black and Asian version of the three wise guys and their treasures standing before a typically very pale skinned baby Jesus, often with light hair and eyes. Funny how we envision things so far from truth.

It is said that the Wise Men were probably from an area which is now in either Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, or an area in what’s now southern Turkey, northern Syria. Although they are often called the ‘Three Kings’, the Bible does not say how many there were, nor that they were kings. One Bible Scholar said there could have been hundreds. But three is the accepted number because there were three gifts. And possibly because three porcelain wise men figures are easier to sell than 200. That’s just a Jesus Chick theory.

With a mind that is focused on worship this week as we go into the days of celebration of the Lord’s birth, I find it interesting that these “wise men” worshipped. That was their purpose. It wasn’t to get selfies taken with the latest trending figures or to study the logistics of a star used as the first GPS. But it was to acknowledge the greatness of this tiny little boy (likely of the age of almost two years).

The Trusted Source

Matthew 2:1-12 – Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the East to Jerusalem, ² saying, “Where is He that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”

As an infant they knew He was the Ruler of God’s people. They were not in His presence when they discovered that bit of news. But through their studies of the word of God, their astrology wisdom and studies, and the current event in the sky they knew it was God! They trusted their Source. Can I tell you that much like the wise men, this not so wise girl can figure out the same thing. I make no professions of being a deep bible scholar, but I am a lover of the Word, and God has spoken to me through His word too many times to count. How is it that people struggle to believe in a book that has withstood attempted destruction, not only decades or centuries, but thousands of years. The same evil spirit that attempted to kill the Baby Jesus, is the same one that longs to annihilate His Word. By the way He is called the Word in John 1:14. Their is power in the Word is Because He is the Word. Glory to God that makes my heart happy to know that I have the very Word of God in my hand and in my heart.

The Timely Star

³ When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. ⁴ And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. ⁵ And they said unto him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: ⁶ ‘And thou, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, art not the least among the princes of Judah; for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule My people Israel.’” ⁷ Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. ⁸ And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search diligently for the young child, and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.”

And whole other study right now would be the fact that Herod and “all” of Jerusalem were troubled. Can I tell you today that the world is still troubled. Nobody wants anyone to rule over them. They want to rule their own lives.

In the book of Numbers 24:17 a Messianic prophecy is spoken of Jesus “I shall see Him, but not now; I shall behold Him, but not nigh. There shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab and destroy all the children of Sheth.”

The prophesied became the proven! Satan hates when that happens. The wisemen were not wise in spiritual matters, they were scientist, worldly astrologers who based what they knew on evidence. They had no doubt seen other evidence in the Word of God that was proven. Even in the oldest book of the Bible, which is Job, astrology was spoken of. One of my favorite verses that I’ve spoke of often is Job 38:31 KJV which says “Canst thou bind the sweet influences of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion?” As I just said about the world not wanting control, this was God asking Job, just what kind of power do you have? Can you control the stars? I can. Earlier in that chapter God said to Job in Job 38:1-3 KJV “Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, [2] Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? [3] Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me.” I don’t know why but that just cracks me up! Put on your big boy pants Job I’ve got a few questions for you about the stars. Those wisemen knew there was a star to be on the watch for. They knew what was there was fact. They had read of that star, and were waiting for it to appear because they trusted in the Word of God and in His timing. Just as real scientist do today. Not the ones who are on the world’s agenda to prove a point not a fact.

The Thought of Significance

Perhaps there was some significance to the star coming out of the east, I don’t think anything “just happens.”

  • The Garden of Eden was planted eastward
    • Genesis 2:8 KJV – ⁸ And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed.
    • The man God formed, He put him in the east. The same man that Christ came to redeem.
  • He placed the cherubims at the east of the garden to protect it.
    • Genesis 3:24 KJVS – So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.
    • Man wasn’t getting back into the garden, and at the east entrance God made sure. God still controls who’s getting in.
  • The tabernacles entrance faced east
    • Numbers 3:38 KJVS – But those that encamp before the tabernacle toward the east, even before the tabernacle of the congregation eastward, shall be Moses, and Aaron and his sons, keeping the charge of the sanctuary for the charge of the children of Israel; and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death.
    • Those who God had placed in charge of His tabernacle, His place of worship were placed at the entrance in the east. And who got in was pretty serious business. You’d be dead if you went in without His permission and for His purpose.
  • Ezekiel’s vision of the Glory of God came from the east
    • Ezekiel 43:1-5 KJVS – Afterward he brought me to the gate, even the gate that looketh toward the east: [2] And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and his voice was like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory. [3] And it was according to the appearance of the vision which I saw, even according to the vision that I saw when I came to destroy the city: and the visions were like the vision that I saw by the river Chebar; and I fell upon my face. [4] And the glory of the Lord came into the house by the way of the gate whose prospect is toward the east. [5] So the spirit took me up, and brought me into the inner court; and, behold, the glory of the Lord filled the house.

And then His star being in the East. The Glory of God’s own Son being found in the east… I just found that very interesting. And as I delved into Israel and the significance of the east I kept thinking about the “Eastern Gate” song that I sang at the nursing home on Monday, it just kept stirring me more!

The Gate that Was Shut

Ezekiel 44:1-3 KJVS
Then he brought me back the way of the gate of the outward sanctuary which looketh toward the east; and it was shut. [2] Then said the Lord unto me; This gate shall be shut, it shall not be opened, and no man shall enter in by it; because the Lord, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it, therefore it shall be shut. [3] It is for the prince; the prince, he shall sit in it to eat bread before the Lord ; he shall enter by the way of the porch of that gate, and shall go out by the way of the same.

As I read it and as I understand it — that eastern gate is shut. The gate that was shut on Israel because of their continued rejection and rebellion of God, and is waiting to be opened when the Lord has called the Gentile Church home. When the tribulation is over, and the earth has been destroyed, and New Jerusalem comes down like a bride adorned for her Husband (Revelation 21:2) Then on that day that Eastern Gate will be opened and Israel will once again be with their God beyond the Eastern gate!

I have no idea if what I say is correct. As I said… I usually know just enough to be dangerous.

The Worship of the Savior

Back to Matthew 2:9-12

⁹ When they had heard the king, they departed; and lo, the star which they saw in the East went before them until it came and stood over where the young Child was. ¹⁰ When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. ¹¹ And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts: gold and frankincense and myrrh. ¹² And being warned by God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

When they found the Savior there was joy. Glorrrraaaaaayyyyyy! Me too! And they fell down and worshipped Him. Those men of worldly wisdom knew Who was the wisest of all. And they fell down and worshipped Him. We need to fall down and worship Him. We need to be on our knees praising Him for who He is and the power that He has. And then we need to head to ”our country”, that country of Heaven another way. It’s not the world’s way. Their not going in the eastern gate. Only God’s children who come to Him by acknowledging who He is will get Home.

I pray we all find time to worship Him… I threw me a pillow in the floor to buffet my old knees and I just took some time in the wee hours of Wednesday morning to tell God how much I loved Him. It wasn’t near enough. I cannot ever worship Him “enough.”

Merry Christmas from Shari, the Jesus Chick. Called by God to be a servant. So grateful…

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.