Tag: purpose

Posted in Christian, Church attendance, Church Unity

The Un-Assembling of the Local Church

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Un-Assembling of the Local Church

On my many adventures out and about County and State, I pass by little country churches (and some relatively big churches) one after another of every denomination. There are some that you can tell from the appearance, someone is taking care of the physical property, leading you to believe that those in the interior on Sunday morning are taking care of the spiritual body. That’s not always the case. But as time passes, I notice far more churches (like myself) looking a little worn. Many are in severe disrepair because there is no longer a body of believers even assembling inside. At what point did they un-assemble? And why? Any number of reasons could be speculated but the most likely reason is their love of the world, outweighed their love for God.

If you’re out of church, you probably feel judged and will want to stop reading. Please don’t. This isn’t about me standing in judgement of those who don’t attend church. I could honestly speak just as negatively of those on the inside of the church who attend but don’t listen. We’re human. Sometimes humanity get’s the best of us. But let me give you three reasons why I believe you’re ready to reassemble.

  1. There’s a missing Peace and a missing Piece

There is a God sized hole in the soul of every human. If the Lord Jesus Christ is not in your life, you know you’re missing something. I know from experience. But, perhaps you’re saying, “Shari, we’re not the same.” No, but God is. And He created you with the desire to know Him. That’s the missing piece. And if you’ve ever truly known Him, when He is not a central part of your life you’re missing peace, and you know it’s gone.

John 14:23-31 KJV
Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. [24] He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me. [25] These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. [26] But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. [27] Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. [28] Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I. [29] And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe. [30] Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me. [31] But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

When I finally connected with Jesus in 1996 my life was a mess. I had no peace. I worried about everything, my life had very little meaningful purpose. I tried to fill it with community good, but I knew that it was just falling through the hole in my life. It added nothing of value to who I was. Both of my girls were young and I knew I was messing up their lives. They needed a foundation I could not provide.

But then I discovered who Jesus really was. Not the facts of Jesus, but the faith in Jesus. When the Holy Spirit came into my heart I knew it! It was very real and the most amazing event in my life. I had peace. I had purpose. If you’re currently not experiencing that, you’re ready to re-assemble.

2. There’s Trouble and There’s Fear

Jesus said Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. If you’re not troubled and fearful in this world, you’re not paying attention! I certainly have moments of serious concern. But understanding the Word of God and being taught by worthy leaders is an important part of every week for me. It secures my faith in the fact that the children of God are going to be okay. And the fact that we need to know we are the children of God and that our family is saved. That is where the security of the believer comes in and when Satan tries to create fear and anxiety in your life you can point him to the word of God and he will flee. His days are numbered!

But without the church, it is very difficult to stay inline with scripture. Not impossible, but far harder than it needs to be. We need to study on our own, but we need church leaders in our lives that we can trust to share what the Lord speaks to them, and how He is working in their life. Then when that trouble and fear begins to rear its ugly head, we’re not alone. Satan loves it when you don’t have anyone you can trust.

3. Satan is Very Real

Jesus said “for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.” That prince is Satan. He is the prince of this world and the fallen angels from Heaven are wreaking havoc in everyone’s life. The demonic forces have taken over the television, the computer, the music industry. You can’t escape the evil anymore. It’s every where. It takes its toll on us. The shows and movies are filled with killing, broken families and violence, and so is society. I’ve never seen a time in my life where people accept evil as the norm. But that’s how it is. What causes me nightmares, children view in a video game and become the character. That’s scary stuff! How will that affect them as adults? I think that’s what we’re seeing with so many children being abused and killed, even by their parents. It’s unfathomable to understand how such things can happen unless you see Satan for what he is. Evil and powerful.

He is not more powerful than God, but Jesus just told us that Satan is the prince of this world. Meaning he does have power. Until Jesus returns! Then his power is done. But so is the opportunity to get your life right with God.

If these thoughts are weighing on your mind. It’s time to do something about it. I pray that you will find a spirit filled church with a God lead pastor and join up! It won’t be perfect. Satan will make sure you see the flaws. But look for the good work God is doing and then become a part of that. The flaws will fade into the background and be drowned out by your peace, your purpose and your people! Everyone needs people.

Love ya! Shari, the Jesus Chick

Posted in Christian

One Foot In Both Worlds

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on One Foot In Both Worlds

Currently I’m studying through the book of Revelation. I think it’s appropriate for “such a time as this.” With the world being absolutely bonkers!!! I need to read the comforting words of God that tells me, “Hey Shari, I have this under control. Yes the world is going crazy, I warned you it would, but read the back of the book and it will bless you!” Of course that is the Bible according to Shari. But it somewhat says that in Revelation 1:3 where it says “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.”

I’m currently in Chapter 2 and a word that kept popping into my mind was a group of people called the Nicolaitans. Twice God mentions them in this chapter, telling two separate churches that He is indeed not happy with them because of their behavior like the Nicolaitans. I had to wonder, “what kind of deeds these people had done that got such a harsh rebuke from God?”

From what I can gather the Nicolaitans were behaving in ways that were not honoring to Christ and taking sin too lightly. Boy oh boy, does that resonate with the current state of the world. I’m not throwing stones, because I’m among them. How many things or thoughts come before my eyes and mind that are far from God honoring. And how lightly I take it. I watched a movie after church on Sunday.. yes after church even… it was not a bad movie but it had the warning of sexual scenes and something else. Those warnings didn’t even phase me. Now it ended up that the movie didn’t have anything major, in comparison to today’s standards, but the fact is, I ignored it. Would Christ and I have watched that movie together? Well we did, because He lives in me. That seems such a trivial thing in light of end time events, but it’s merely a launching point for my study.

God is directing these conversations of the writer John to the churches. Not to the lost people out there in the world, but to the churches. Ephesus, Smyrna and Pergamos have been addressed so far in chapter 2, and God’s not happy. Is He any happier with today’s churches? Or the people who say they’re apart of the church and act worse than the local heathens. I’m not talking about cussing and drinking and all the other obvious sins that we know to be wrong… yet we take so lightly. God didn’t even mention those in His harsh rebuke. They’d lost their first love, were behaving in ways that brought disgrace to the name of Christ and God told John to call’em out.

Where is the church’s concern for the souls of men?

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the things that God has made me steward over. I’m terrible at it! Jesus addressed this in Luke 16:1-14 KJV
And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods. [2] And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward. [3] Then the steward said within himself, What shall I do? for my lord taketh away from me the stewardship: I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed. [4] I am resolved what to do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses. [5] So he called every one of his lord’s debtors unto him, and said unto the first, How much owest thou unto my lord? [6] And he said, An hundred measures of oil. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty. [7] Then said he to another, And how much owest thou? And he said, An hundred measures of wheat. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and write fourscore. [8] And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. [9] And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations. [10] He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. [11] If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? [12] And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own? [13] No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. [14] And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.

A few things from that scripture really hit home. The first steward addressed in this story ad been given much, but was terrible at his handling of it and called on the carpet by his matter. “Hello… it’s coming people.” So the unjust steward then decided to go to the people who owed him and lower their debt.

What I found most interesting was verse 8 when the lord said “for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.”

Children of light, children of God… those who should know better. His lord told him that the worldly people were smarter than God’s own. Because God’s own know better, and still do err, treating the word and the holiness of God in an unrighteous manner far from the seriousness it deserves. Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ died for those sins… and yet we don’t give them a second thought.

To serve two masters was to attempt to love money and God. Love the world and say that you love God. Do ya now? Do you love God enough to take sin as serious as you should. Before you say that thing, do that thing… is God glorified?

This message hit me square between the eyes. How about you?

Posted in Christian Service, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration

It’s Hard to Tell Where that Crazy Thing Will Lead You!

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on It’s Hard to Tell Where that Crazy Thing Will Lead You!

Once again on Sunday morning I went to the altar. As I do most every Sunday service. I have people I need to pray for, circumstances I need to lift up, stuff that only Jesus can tackle. My community is a mess, my State and Nation are a mess. I’m always a hot mess! Sometimes the enormous responsibility of publishing a local news site takes it toll. I grow weary of shining a light in dark places. My conversations with God have also been soul searching missions to determine the intents of my heart. You know, the Bible tells us that our hearts are deceitfully wicked.

Jeremiah 17:9-14 KJV
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? [10] I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. [11] As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool. [12] A glorious high throne from the beginning is the place of our sanctuary. [13] O LORD, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the LORD, the fountain of living waters. [14] Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.

Don’t be Deceived

I see social media posts, many by Christians, telling people to “follow their heart.” No! don’t do it. It’s hard to tell where that crazy thing will lead you. Follow the Word of God. Take that decision and get in the Bible and see how it lines up with the Word. That’s what I did this weekend. I wanted to ask someone for advice, but that scared me too. It’s not that we all, especially me, don’t need a person of good counsel. But on this matter, I didn’t want to bring anyone in to my battle. So I searched the scripture on how to cover the with godliness. That wasn’t an easy search.

A portion of the content I found on the subject of journalism, which really is on the subject of anyone who tells what’s happening in a community to someone else came from lonang.com

The way requires the journalist to refrain from bearing false witness as well as to refrain from bearing witness in a false way. The life prohibits the journalist from holding his neighbor in contempt. Jesus said He came to bring life and life more abundantly. When the reporter considers the purpose of the report, it must conform to the object of bringing life and life more abundantly. This does not mean “good news” in the popular sense. Jesus is good news, but to some He is the cornerstone upon which many stumble. Life and life more abundantly has to do with the object or purpose of the report, not necessarily its content.

These two aspects of Jesus as the Word are reflected in Exodus 20:16: “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” God prohibits false declarations of fact as well as declarations or misrepresentations of fact in a false way. He also charges the journalist to maintain a proper disposition toward his reader or listener, that is, toward his neighbor.

I came to the peace of my recent posts and decisions when I determined that it fell within the boundaries of the Word of God. The good news isn’t always good in the eyes of the world. But if we believe Romans 8:28, the result will one day be good. But don’t trust your heart… trust the Word.

Don’t be Distressed

Jeremiah said that God was going to give every man according to his ways and according to the fruit of his doing. If we obey the Word of God, keep our hearts cleaned by God and the power of His forgiveness, have no wicked intent, then our ways will be rewards, not punishments. Satan would love to have you believe that God is going to call you upon they carpet and rake you across the coals. That’s not Who God is at all. Yes, if we are wicked, there will come a day that we will answer before God. But when God’s children are trying their very best to live right, not perfect, but the best they can, He may chastise us in love, but not for our distruction but tot strengthen us.

I hate being called on the carpet… it’s happened many times in my career. Some justified, some not. But one thing I’ve learned is that when it’s in error, I learn not to be like that person. When it is justified, I know I need to be a better person. Do I get distressed. Oh yeah. But I’m a work in progress.

Don’t Depart

Many times since my salvation in 1996, the first thing that I want to do is run. I want away from the frustration, the people who frustrated me and that has never been the answer. When people get hurt, they usually hurt me. And I can usually handle it just fine. Until they call me out on my Christian values. This causes me to question the intents of my heart. Which is good! I need to do that. But it also causes me doubt myself and doubt my purpose.

In Sunday School we spent a lot of time yesterday talking about purpose. And the fact that many Christians never take the time to discover God’s purpose for them on this earth. God’s main purpose is to be glorified in your life and that your life will draw men to Him. But within that purpose is something you’ve been called to do, usually in a secular sense.

I’ve had to learn to stand my ground. It would be way easier just to cave and walk away. But I know that I’ve been called for this purpose in life. I have peace with that. And with that peace comes a backbone that I’ve never before had. It’s a little wobbly sometime, but God has given me the ability to stand my ground.

If you’re struggling- – – stand on my friend. God has you covered. And what ever you do, don’t follow that crazy heart!

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

Sarcasm and Christianity, a Woodshed Moment

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

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

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

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

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

Love is Kind. Sometimes I am Not. 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 

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

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

1 Timothy 6:11-12 KJV

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

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

Love Doesn’t Vaunt. I Try Not to.

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

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

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

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

Psalm 19:14

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

Love Doesn’t Misbehave. I Do.

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

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

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

Matthew 18:3-6 KJV

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

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

My closing questions for myself are this:

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

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

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

Posted in Family, Life Inspiration, Word of God

Deception is All Around Us, Walk in Awareness

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Deception is All Around Us, Walk in Awareness

I will tell you without hesitation that I am a gullible soul. I love people. In general most all people. But there are some people that I struggle to love. I love them in Christ; meaning I want to see them saved. But I won’t tell you that I have a love for them in the flesh. I have to talk to Jesus first, and then I can love them.

And there are some people that God’s guidance is needed for discernment in what my attitude and action should be. Not that He would ever tell me not to love someone, but God has zero tolerance for evil and He expect the same from His children.

Today I found myself unaware that evil had been lurking around me and I had been rubbing elbows with it. Not as friends, but as acquaintances. This person gave the impression that they were a believer, and I assumed a believer of Christ. Because that’s where my mind goes when someone says believer. Even though I cannot honestly say this person uttered those words. It was again, an assumption on my part. When I discovered today through another friend that this person in question was involved in actual witchcraft and demonic forces, I was physically sick.

But this is when the flesh kicked into high gear and I had to have a little talk with Jesus. I had to remind myself that pre salvation I wouldn’t have given the antics of this person a second thought. But now, with the Spirit of God dwelling within me, I see the evil for what it is.

I had initially planned on writing today about the “spirit and power of confession.” Confession is good for the soul. It’s a very humbling experience to let someone know that you’ve failed. It’s also good for a new Christian to understand that getting saved doesn’t make you a perfect person, it makes you a forgiven person and one that should feel guilt in knowing they’ve offended God with their sin. The same Spirit that convicts my soul of sin, impresses upon my heart, provides me spiritual discernment when something around me is wrong. And there had been warnings on this person that I chose to ignore.

For Truth’s Sake

2 John 1:1-13 KJV
The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth; [2] For the truth’s sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever. [3] Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love. [4] I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.

John’s letter to this elect lady, who was a believer as well as her children, gives mention of truth three times in the first sentence. It’s an important factor in the life of a child of God that you know the truth of the Gospel and will have the tri-fold blessing of grace, mercy and peace. Without knowing the truth none of those will be present in your life. But even with the presence of Jesus Christ in your life, like myself, it doesn’t preven you from being deceived if you’re not on guard.

For Deceptions Signal

[5] And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another. [6] And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. [7] For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.

Antichrist. That’s a pretty harsh title. It’s not speaking of “the Antichrist” which is to come in end times. But the presence of someone or something that is against Christ. The person for which I speak, on the surface, appears to be someone of “decent” moral fibers. I couldn’t even write that without nausea in knowing that by saying decent, I mean, I don’t believe this person would should you in the back. I even have to remind myself that this same person sold me out when I asked friends for prayer against a woman who was attacking me, and this person went and told the woman I what I had done. Yes… I’m an idiot far more often than I like to confess. But I’m glad that God made me someone who gives people the benefit of a doubt, even if it sometimes bites me in the butt.

John told the lady that we need to love people, but not to the point of deception. The Spirit of God allows us the ability to feel the presence of evil and be warned that deception lingers near. But like myself we can choose to ignore it. What then?

For Your Family’s Sake

[8] Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. [9] Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. [10] If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: [11] For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. [12] Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. [13] The children of thy elect sister greet thee. Amen.

John warns this lady that she should have nothing to do with a person who does not abide, meaning to dwell in, the Lord Jesus Christ. If they’re not for Him, they’re against Him. Makes good sense, right? Until you throw my upbringing into it which believes everyone has good intentions. That is far from the case. When I delved into the background of this person in question, they not only did not promote Christ, they promoted satanic belief through conjuring dead spirits and other wicked endeavors. That person was put into a short lived position of authority and access to the minds of many people. Praise God and and by His mercy it didn’t work out and access was cut off.

I said all that to say this. We have got to become more aware of the evil that abounds and the danger that lurks in our neighborhoods. Which means through person to person and media methods. While I understand that adults can be deceived, I don’t worry as much about them as do the vulnerability of our youth. These same evil spirits were around in John’s day. No doubt why he was so happy that this lady’s children also walked in the truth. We are a nation that have basically parked our kids on the porch with a handheld window to the world and no barriers from people like this accessing their minds. So before you think, “I don’t live any where close you.” You don’t have to. That is one thing that has definitely changed since John’s day. They only had to worry about the neighborhood. We have to worry about the world.

Please safeguard your mind, your home and your heart from the evils of this world. And above all stay in the word of God.

Posted in Christian Service, Political

Cast Your Vote on the Side of God

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Cast Your Vote on the Side of God

Election Day 2024. Dates like this seem to be a decade away and then they’re here before we know it. I would have loved on Election Day to give a rah rah speech of great patriotic magnitude that caused red, white and blue streamers to fall from the skies with sparkling glitter. But let’s get real… I don’t really think that’s what God’s feeling this morning as this Election Day has begun. The polls are open, and the votes are being casts, and His will may or may not be considered by those who are voting, but it’s seriously considered in Heaven.

I found myself reading one of my favorite chapters that I heard preached a decade or two ago, and never forgot. “Creeps in the Church,” from the book of Jude.

They’re not only in the church, they’re in the courthouse and every other business and home across the world. We are a society filled with creeps who have assumed that our Holy God wasn’t paying attention or didn’t care about the vile reprobate minds of this society. They’ve mocked God and His children. They’ve killed innocent babies without remorse and the airwaves and cyber space is filled with the ungodliest of images that is now considered the norm.

I wanted a reminder for myself as I go to the poll today to cast my vote as best I can with the candidates afforded. I want reminded that God will not be mocked and it is my job as His child and a servant of Jesus Christ Who willingly died for me on the cross, so that I could have the opportunity to CONTEND FOR THE FAITH! That’s our job, every day all day.

If you have that common salvation. Saved by the blood of Jesus Christ alone, it’s your job to contend.

If you have that same faith that was delivered to the saints of old, it’s your job to contend!

It’s our job to protect our families from the wickedness that would consume our world were it not for the grace and mercy of Almighty God.

When you read Jude, it’s a good reminder that, like Sodom and Gomorrah, we may be in the vilest of places right now, but God is still God, and every vile and wicked thing done is known by Him. He will have His day. But for today, we’re extended grace and an opportunity to show people that God still has a remnant of people who are willing to stand in the gap. For today, standing in the gap is to cast your vote on the side of God.

The Archangel Michael could have mopped the earth with Satan and his minions. But he left them to God. So should we.

Jude 1:3-10 KJV
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. [4] For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. [5] I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. [6] And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day. [7] Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. [8] Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. [9] Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.

Posted in Family, Heaven, Life Inspiration, salvation

The Gate, The Trees and the House – What address do they lead to?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion 2 Comments on The Gate, The Trees and the House – What address do they lead to?

Sunday mornings are the most exciting day of my week. Going to church and studying the word of God puts fuel in the fire of my soul! Fellowship with the believers is unlike any earthly relationship. My two youngest grandsons attend church with me and they have dozens of questions and often some very strange commentary on their lives as new members of the body of Christ. The boys, ages 9 and 10, gave their life to Christ this year and were baptized. I pray the zeal they currently have never dies down. It hasn’t in my life, although there have been times that struggled to keep the fire lit. So I “somewhat” get it when I meet with people who say they’re Christian, but there’s no joy or evidence of Christ working in their lives. But it causes me great angst (and not just a little bit) I mean GREAT ANGST when those people are family and friends.

Salvation is a very personal event. It’s different for everyone. But the one thing that is undeniable with salvation is that there is a change in a person’s life. That’s what causes me angst. I know many, many people who never darken the door of a church house, never crack open the word of God, never bow their head in prayer unless they’re in trouble and they know nothing about an actual relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. 

If that’s you… you scare me.

Matthew 7:13-14

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

If I quote a verse like that to someone who appears to be out of the loop with Jesus, they’re either offended, or assume it can’t mean them, because they’re “fine.” And I want to believe they’re fine, that way I can sleep easier. But I can’t… Because I believe that true salvation brings a change in a person’s life that is undeniably evident.

And so I read further to determine what God meant in the book of Matthew 7

The heading in my Ryrie study Bible says that this part of Matthew 7, verses 13 through 29 is “The Proof of the Kingdom Life.” Those who are saved are members of the Kingdom of God, so proof of the Kingdom life should be easy enough to find in them, right?

  • Two Gates
  • Two Trees
  • Two Builders
  • One soul
  • One decision

The outline of this scripture should allow the believer to look at their life and determine if they’re okay.

Matthew 7:13-29 KJV

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [14] Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [15] Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. [16] Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? [17] Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. [18] A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. [19] Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. [20] Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. [21] Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? [23] And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. [24] Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: [25] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. [26] And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: [27] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. [28] And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: [29] For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

Two Gates

These are the words of Jesus as He preaches His gospel. He, who is the determining factor of your salvation. Should we not look earnestly at his Word? In Sunday School yesterday, I learned something new about the word earnest. That it could be used in defining the serious of a commitment such as the purchasing of a car. Earnest would refer to the down payment. Meaning that you’re serious about that new ride! How serious are you about eternity? When Jesus mentioned the two gates He said one was broad and one was narrow. One, many would choose, and one, there would be few. More reason for more angst! A commitment to God is more than the average decisions of every day life. When I think about how quickly I reached the age of 61, I’m shocked. I am so happy that I have the promise of eternity. It won’t go nearly so fast! And once I’m there, I’ll no longer lose anyone. I won’t have angst. Nothing but sweet peace in the presence of my Savior. But I am concerned about the decision makers on this earth that I call family and friends. Which gate have you chosen?

Two Trees

The proof in the puddin’ as they say. Jesus tells the story of two trees that have the ability to bear fruit. One has good fruit, and one has rotten fruit. So he rids himself of the rotten fruit by throwing the tree into the fire. Wait! Jesus throws out the whole tree? Yes. Just as He does the whole body of a nonbeliever. Not because He doesn’t want them in Kingdom, but because they’re unfruitful. How on earth can a Holy, perfect God, allow people in Heaven that have refused to acknowledge and participate in His earthly Kingdom activities. If you had a child that you had given life to, raised with every good opportunity, and they cast it off, lived a life of rebellion, never darkening the doorstep of your home or having a conversation with you, would you give them a mansion? The problem is, people don’t see their non fruit bearing life as rebellion against God, but it is. He died for you. Can you not see the need to live for Him?

Two Builders

Again Jesus offers a parable to help the reader understand. There are two people building houses… one on the sand, one on the rock. The constant shifting of the sand beneath your feet when you walk along the shore gives a good indication of what’s going to happen when a storm comes in. But the house on the Rock is safe! That Rock is Jesus Christ. He has built us a home, and is waiting to hand us the keys in a place that there will never again be any shifting sand or storms of life. All we have to do is accept the fact that He paid the full price of our eternal life on the cross. That’s all that is required for salvation. But the belief and understanding in the cost He paid should cause narrow mindedness in a good sense, in that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and no man will come to the Father, except through Him. One gate, One decision.

When that decision is made, there should be fruit in your life by your service to God. Are you serving Him today? If not, why?

Are you the foolish or wise builder? Are you pouring yourself into this temporary life, when the eternal one is the only one that offers hope? When you’re gone will your family have the proof of your new address?

Please God, if you are not certain. Message me today. Let’s get your keys in hand!!

Posted in Christian Service, Word of God

Legalism, Liberalism and the Love of Jesus

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion 3 Comments on Legalism, Liberalism and the Love of Jesus

In 26 years of salvation, I’ve been introduced to them all. Praise God for the latter that offers grace in abundance in these confusing times. Let me begin by doing my best to define what these words mean to me. Legalism is the unnecessary addition of unmentioned works into the Word of God, and over attentiveness to the behaviors of others that distort the true nature of Christianity and make grace secondary and almost leaves mercy out of the equation.

Liberalism on the other hand is based on the argument that there is an individual right of a person to life, liberty and property, with circumstantial ethics and scripture viewed as negotiable. It was present in the garden when Satan asked Eve, “Did God say?” That’s what liberalism does in the face of homosexuality, gender dysphoria, witchcraft and everything else from A to Z in this sinful world. They will question “Did God say?” And then add to it how that doesn’t apply to them and in the end justify it to a lost and dying world.

But that’s not the end. We will all stand accountable in the end, before a Holy God to determine whether or not we have the right to be in Heaven. Which is by the blood of Jesus, alone. So, will there be legalist and liberals in Heaven. Yes, but they’re going to live on the outskirts of town. I’m Kidding! Well, kind of.

I don’t know how God will determine who does what in Heaven. But I know He knows. He gave us clues in the Word of God when He said in

1 Corinthians 3:13-16 KJV
Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. [14] If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. [15] If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. [16] Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

You can’t say that work is not important to God. There it is in black and white, but note that God said that they’d be saved; meaning, those who confess that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, was crucified and died for their sin. If they believe in their heart that He is Lord, and that He died to cover their sins, they’re saved. The heart is the determining factor, not the works. But for the works that a person has done on earth with a good heart and intent, there is a reward.

2 Corinthians 5:8-14 KJV
We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. [9] Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. [10] For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. [11] Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences. [12] For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. [13] For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause. [14] For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:

The Lord drew my heart into His words this morning in verse 12 that said “that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.” Works was never intended to be apart of salvation. From the garden, blood covered sin when God killed the lamb to clothe Adam and Eve, and it continued to be the blood when men would sacrifice unto God. But when Jesus made that final sacrifice, man’s role in the story of salvation was done. Not that it ever really paid a part in it, because what man did with the blood sacrifice still pointed to the cross. Jesus said “It is finished.” And it was. So why is it that those of a legalistic mindset proclaim their holiness because of their suit jacket and hair cut? It’s as utterly ridiculous as it is for the liberal to say that they are free to live their lives against scripture and think that they’ll not stand before that holy throne accountable. We’re all accountable!

So how do the legalistic and the liberals ignore the word of God or add unmentioned works into scripture? They’re glorying in appearance (earthly appearance). If you’re so concerned with what someone’s wearing to church that it effects your opinion of their spiritual state, you’re forgetting that their spiritual state is between them and God and you’re not privy to it. If you’re a liberal and you’re saying the word of God is antiquated or not relevant to today’s standards, you’re dead wrong and when you’re dead you’ll stand before God and answer for it. And then He’ll give you your mansion in the outback of Heaven. (Joking! Kind of)

Paul told the Corinthians that they (the disciples of Christ) were setting themselves as an example for other Christians to look to as to how you should live. A child of God should be an example to the world. But not to say “Look at me, you should want to be like me.” But to use their life to point people to Christ. Christ, Who called sin out and never made light of it. Christ who set in the midst of sinners and loved them like true friends. He had the right to judge them, but He chose rather to show mercy, love and compassion to the point that the people wanted to know Him.

Is that how we’re living our lives? If we’re not, then we’re wrong. No one will see Christ in legalism. They’ll not see Christ in the lives of people who justify sin. We, like Him, must love them into the Kingdom.

Posted in Christian, Christian Service, Evangelism, Life Inspiration

The Wicked Can’t Steal what’s not on Earth!

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Wicked Can’t Steal what’s not on Earth!

My daughter calls me her “moral compass.” I am given that title not because I’m so good, but because I try to live by the Word of God. Trust me when I tell you, I’m a failure most days. But my God is not. Which is Who I rely on when my daughter needs me to be her moral compass. I don’t tell her what Shari would do, because in my flesh, I might do something worse. But God will never fail to provide the advice we need when answers fail our earthly wisdom. 

Psalm 37:37-40

[37] Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace. [38] But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off. [39] But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. [40] And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.

The Perfect Man

There is none perfect, but Jesus Christ. So when the Bible says “perfect” it’s not referring to sin free, but blameless in a situation. There is a sect of people in most every community that love being in the midst of trouble and pride themselves in making the lives of someone miserable. I don’t understand the mindset. I especially don’t understand it when they claim to be a child of God.

The Psalmist tells us to “mark” the perfect man. Take note of that person that is walking in the ways of Christ because that way is how we ourselves find peace. This morning as I lie in bed and write these words in the wee hours of the morning, such a man came to mind. A preacher who had brought me through a hard time and encouraged my soul when the saved had just about buried me. The saved? Yes! God’s people, who for whatever reason felt they were doing what was right and in the process had me beaten as low as I could get. They were not mean to my face, they were not even “mean” to my back, but because I disagreed with their doctrine, they hung me out to dry and prayed that I would blow away. And so I did. But those were people that I had earlier marked as “perfect.” Not perfect people, but walking in the ways of Christ in such a manner that I wanted to follow their example.

So what changed? In them, I really don’t know. Perhaps they were not as good as I had once thought, or perhaps that just went off the rails, but praise God, someone still on that train to Glory got me back in line. If you’re struggling, find that conductor of glory!

The Imperfect Man

The Psalmist tells us in verse 38 that the day of the wicked is coming when God will take care of them. And the Apostle Paul tell us in Romans 16:17 to mark them as well. 

Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

Paul doesn’t tell us to retaliate, he tells us to simply “mark them.” Just as we’re not to puff up those who are living for God, meaning to put more emphasis on them, but rather mark them as an example of how we too should live. But the evil, we need to mark and avoid them. That is wonderful advice. And advice that I do not always heed. I sometimes mark them and rehash their ill intent to the point that vengeance is in the forethought of my mind, knowing that God does not intend it to be so. 

Oh, I’m imperfect!

This was a struggle this past week when people set their sights on a few people in my life and my fleshly reaction was to mark them and think, “I’ll get my chance to nail you one of these days.” And then those “nails” in the cross came to mind when Jesus said “Forgive them for they know not what they do.” The people in Jesus’ day and the people in my world knew that what they were doing pleased their flesh. It made them feel powerful and in control. But the reality of it was, they were in God’s sights. 

When I think about God turning His back on Christ as He hung there on the cross, I can’t imagine why. Until I think about God’s power and strength and what His reaction may have been as He watched His Son suffer the death of crucifixion. What power it would have taken as  He looked on at the anguish mankind had inflicted on Christ, Who was literally dying for their sins. He could have wiped the earth clean of them all. That’s probably what I would have done. But God allowed it, because every single person on the earth was flawed, and filled with sin. They had no concept of being sin free and attempted to destroy He who was sin free because of the conviction they felt at His words. 

Is it any different today? Tell someone they’re wrong and see if you’ve made a new friend.

The Perfected Man

We’ll never be perfect, but through the Spirit of God we have the strength to overcome the flesh.

[39] But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. [40] And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.

Isn’t the love of God amazing. That even though we are no better than any one sinner on earth, through His righteousness He sees us as perfectly sin free. And He’ll not only deliver us from the wicked but He’ll give us that perfect peace that the world tries to steal, because we simply trust in Him. We don’t deserve it any more than the most wicked person on earth. But God in His Holiness cleans us and sits us on the side of Heaven. 

The wicked cannot steal what is not on earth to have. True peace comes only from God and cannot be found nor stolen by earthly measures. Buddy that’ll preach!!!! Have a blessed day.

Posted in Christian, Christian Service

Sometimes I’m a Real Piece of Work

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Sometimes I’m a Real Piece of Work

Don’t ask me about mathematics, geography or science. None of which are my strong suits in life. Do ask me about life, I for certain will have something to say. I have ideas and opinions, I am far from an expert, but I make every attempt to live my own life with biblical principles in the forefront of my day and with the acknowledgment that I will one day stand before Almighty God and answer for my antics here on earth. There will be no excuses for any shoddy workmanship this side of Heaven. 

Ephesians 2:10 KJV

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Now, let’s get real. I am an epic failure most days. I guess one might say that I am an expert on failure. That often causes me to have mercy for mankind. And then sometimes my mercy is a limited human resource. Praise God, His is unlimited. 

In this current era of time I am in the thick of politics. And I’ll just tell you, it’s a rock and hard place to keep a constant flow of mercy. People are stupid and I know for a fact that there is a sect that watches me to see how “The Jesus Chick” will react. And my ordained walk is sometimes with a serious limp. 

So I take Paul’s words this morning, and before I get too far into my day, I look at his well spoken advice. 

The Workmanship

“We” are His workmanship. All of us. Created with a purpose (s) in this life. I speak of it often because I know that possibly for the first time in my life, I’m where God wants me. Shining the light on truth in my community and in the word of God. And unfortunately in that order which is NOT the will of God. My mornings should be first the Good News, then the bad news. But it’s not. I get straight out of bed and start my day producing what bits and pieces of news I have for Calhoun County, West Virginia. This is where I fail. I will attend meetings with fellow Christians and absolute heathens, and I’ll just let you in on a secret, I more often than not like the heathen’s more. 

His workmanship in me is to be a writer and an orator. The wonderful thing about the written word is it can be rehearsed again and again. And I do.  I write it, read it, correct it, read it again, and often critique it before I put it out for consumption. (And still there are errors) But the spoken word, unless it’s studied and prepared (which I do for events), but in life can get you into a heap of trouble! Especially if you are passionate about the topic. 

I am passionate about news. I love listening to news reports. I want the truth and I seek it from people that I trust. That’s tough. Because there are people I have trusted who turned out to be absolute liars! But that workmanship is on them. I am responsible for the workmanship of Shari. 

Ask yourself this today, what were you created to do?

I asked myself, followed by Paul’s wordage “in Christ Jesus unto good works?” 

The Works

That’s the result of the workmanship. 

So God created me to be a “wordsmith.” I love that phrase. It makes me sound like I know what I’m doing. And when I write and speak with forethought as to what God would say in the circumstance, I’m not too shabby. But when I get in a big way, or I am trying to please or at the very least not offend man, that’s when I feel my report card in Heaven will say, “Needs improvement and talks too much.”

What brought this on? Several recent conversations with multiple people. 

Have you ever tiptoed into a room with an old wooden floor. Creak, creak, creak. That’s what my conversations felt like. I was tiptoeing around what I wanted to say and I could hear the floor creaking beneath my feet and God saying “Spit it out Eli.”

I didn’t. I was created to share words, both mine and more importantly the Word of God but I failed because I allowed the flesh to cause me to be more concerned with hurting people’s feelings than God’s. 

Ouch.

The Walk

On Christmas night 2023 I began staying with my Mother at night for fear she would fall. I also started making an attempt to get her to eat better. At the age of 88, her mind and her physical strength are weakening. I feel as if I need someone to stay with me, to make sure I’m walking upright and edifying myself on the Word of God. 

Life takes a toll. The workmanship that God produced in me had no flaw, until the flesh marred it. 

Ephesians 6:15 KJV

And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

The last piece of armor that Paul told us to put on is the gospel of peace on our feet. Why? Because our walk is critical to standing before a flawed world. People are watching and waiting for us to fail. I oblige more often than not. But today’s study reminded me that be it word or deed I need to walk worthy of my calling. You too have a calling. Let’s help each other