Tag: religion

Posted in Evangelism, Life Inspiration, Political, testimony

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

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

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

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

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

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

Religion and politics are all about control

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

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

Religion and Politics Restrict Communication

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

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

Religion and Politics Don’t Care What You Think

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted in 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 Christian, Christian Service

Will we Talk about Laundry in Heaven?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Will we Talk about Laundry in Heaven?

Snuggled into my bed, long before bedtime on a Saturday night I begin trying to share a piece of myself when I honestly feel that there is only a few pieces of me left. But I feel compelled to share how very inept I feel at life. And before any of my wonderful friends who encourage my soul daily try to come to my rescue, hear me out. I am blessed beyond measure with gifts of God that I would not want to forsake, offend or fail to come to the aid of anyone of them. And then add to that a new found passion for being the keeper of the news and a typical day starts at 4 a.m., ends around 10-11 p.m. and is filled with people, puppies, obligations, virtual meetings, in person meetings, laundry, supper, news stories and occasionally, but now rarely a strum on the guitar. My conversations with God are all day in between and I feel like I am giving Him pieces of my day. That’s not a good feeling.  

But better it is than that of what the Apostle Paul faced in Acts 23. 

Acts 23:1-11 KJV

[1] And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day. [2] And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth. [3] Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law? [4] And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God’s high priest? [5] Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people. [6] But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question. [7] And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided. [8] For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both. [9] And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees’ part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God. [10] And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle. [11] And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.

That was a lesson for myself. As I whined instead of shined. It’s a lesson for us all that struggle with the busyness of life. And for me so often it’s more mismanagement of time than too much to do. With that being said, I want to dig into this lesson of Paul, the Pharisees and Sadducees and the Chief Captain. In this passage we have different secs of religion verses the truth of the gospel and a member of the government coming to the rescue of the man of God to send him away from being “torn into pieces” by the religious. Ananias had him mashed in the mouth for daring to speak about living for God. It makes you want to ask “do you feel guilty much, Ananias? 

The Tactless and Unteachable Teachers

That’s how I view the over zealous religious people. Those who love wearing the right thing, and speaking the right thing and lording their position in the church over those who sin, as if to say “follow my own righteousness, for I am godly.”  Paul could say he lived in good conscience because he had not only lived the life they professed (but didn’t live) but now he lived the life of building a relationship with the Lord as these Sadducees and Pharisees had never known. Because they were trusting in being right, not searching for truth. With the exception of a few. 

The Scrappy Scribes

When the scribes, which were of the Pharisees, arose and defended Paul, scripture saying they “strove” for him,  they did so at a teachable moment. They were willing to at least consider that Paul had been spoken to by God or angels. Are we “teachable” in moments of contention?  I can be every bit as stubborn as the Pharisees and Sadducees when I get something stuck in my craw and don’t want to disbelieve what I have been told. What it boils down to, I believe, is not so much what I’ve been told, but who told it to me. I have some mighty mentors in my past. Men and women with good hearts who would have never lead me astray, but accidentally did on some things. They taught as they were taught.

Before anyone thinks I’ve lost my mind, I have never been taught incorrectly on the salvation of Jesus Christ which is by far the most important thing in life. But rather there was teaching regarding foundational truths that mattered in how I viewed eternity and my role and purpose in this life that when studied deeper, were not correct. I do not have all the answers about eternity, nor does anyone else. But I’m open to learning. I am teachable and I am grateful and humble that God gives me the desire to want to know more about His Kingdom. 

The Caring Captain

The Chief Captain was not so much concerned for Paul as he likely was himself. With Paul being a citizen of Rome, should the captain allow him to be killed at the hands of the Jews, he would have to answer for it. There are still those in the world today that do not believe as Christian’s do but will defend us because it’s the “right” thing to do. I have some of those friends that I long to see saved because I know that they’re zealousness for right, could be used by God. Now, the captain was so much for what was right, but what would keep him out of hot wat,er. I have those friends too.

My lesson for today is this: When I think about all that Paul got accomplished, and how any given day in his life was filled with people, obligations, meetings, etc. and within those events the very real threat of death, it makes my whine seem even whinier. And when I think of all that Paul accomplished in his life it makes me desire to do more. 

When eternity comes… and it will… what conversations do you think you’ll have about your life down here? Will we stand around and talk about the piles of laundry, the mud drug in or the people who got on our last nerve? No. But will we have worthy conversations to chat about regarding what we’ve done for Christ? Dear Jesus…. Let it be said of me, she told her world of You.

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Life Inspiration

How to avoid a perverse Gospel

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on How to avoid a perverse Gospel

Galatians 1:8-12 KJVS

[8] But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. [9] As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. [10] For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. [11] But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. [12] For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

In twenty five years of following Jesus Christ, I can assure you I have been lead astray more than a time or two on the subject of the gospel. Especially in those early years. I would listen to any thing that had the name of Jesus Christ attached to it. My curiosity was insane. I wanted to learn every thing I could  and right now. That made me an easy target for the accursed.

Accusations of the Accursed

The definition of accursed in the 1928 Webster dictionary is: Separated from the faithful; cast out of the church; excommunicated.

That’s a pretty strong action! Twice in Galatians 1, Paul said to let them be accursed. But that is what the apostle Paul meant by the seriousness of what these people were doing with the gospel of Christ. They were making grace of no effect in the lives of people He died for by adding works. I understand where the confusion comes from, I’ve been there. And the people I was listening to, were not evil people. At least not all of them, there were a few that I’m pretty sure were devils in disguise. But most were simply put, religious. Believing that surely to goodness man had to contribute something.But that is not the case. And although I am an independent Baptist by church title (IBC), I’ve had issues with IBC from the get go, but much of it I chocked up to my rebellious nature. My issues have never been with their viewpoint of salvation, they believed saved by grace alone, they just occasionally add a few works to whether you’re worthy to be in church.

John Gill’s commentary said this: the doctrine which attributes justification to the works of the law, or mixes grace and works in the business of salvation, which was the doctrine of these false teachers, is no Gospel; not truly so, however it may be called; nor does it bring any solid peace and joy to distressed minds. There is but one pure Gospel of the grace of God, and Christ, and his apostles; there is not one and another; there is but one faith, one doctrine and scheme of faith; the Gospel is single and uniform, all of a piece, has no yea and nay, or contradiction in it; this trumpet gives no uncertain sound, nor any dreadful, but a joyful one:

The phrase “distressed mind” was what really caught my attention. That is certainly what religion does! If I have to wear certain things, do certain things, speak certain ways and act certain ways it is for certain I am stressed! I’m going to mess that up somehow because thats not who I am, or who God created me to be. I know that there are some IBC people who would strongly disagree, and that’s okay. Me and Jesus love you anyway. 

The Jews were adding circumcision and feast days and many of the works of the law back into the grace of God. Tell me how that differs from religion of today? You may have to be an IBC to understand what I’m about to say, but tell me the difference between culottes and shorts? The only difference I see is culottes are ugly! I’ve probably just been excommunicated. Not from my church but the IBC group chat. 😂🤣😂I crack myself up! 

It is unfortunate that I can think of many other acts of works that I’ve seen in many denominations. One is no greater offense than than the other to the grace of God. Anything required of man to be considered good enough to attend church is works. If you want to keep any law God said you have to keep all of it. All 613 of them.

Right now, my goal is to get people to church!  To get people into a relationship with Jesus Christ and understand that He is the only one that has the authority to judge them.

Now, with that being said, He will judge you. You will stand before Christ and answer for what you’ve done for Him. If you’ve accepted Christ’s crucifixion as payment for your sin, you’re saved and your sin is covered. You have nothing else to do for salvation. But He did not save you to sit on a shelf or in a pew, look pretty and make godly potato salad for church dinners. He saved you to serve with humility and to any position He calls you to do. 

I wish God gave me the position of appointing positions, but He did not. That’s His trumpet to blow and yours to hear. 

So as for the perverse doctrines of man, I won’t make any more lists, just a thought: kick worldly ideologies out of the church first. Then perhaps people will see the truth that Jesus saves anyone.

Posted in Bible Journaling, Life Inspiration, Praise, worship

How Many Ways to Worship?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on How Many Ways to Worship?

I gotta tell ya… my ways really haven’t changed over my 25 years of salvation. But what has changed is my understanding of why I do what I do. Worship is a very personal thing. If we’re speaking of the worship of God Almighty, we have to make that clear first. Because there are people who worship many things, and some “know not what” they worship. There is nausea in my belly when I think of the many that might fall in to this category. They know there is something to be worshipped. Or Someone to be worshipped, but the world has left them confused as to who or what specific “god” is that they’re to worship. Or what is acceptable worship. I must confess that in my earlier years of salvation, I would follow the cues of the church I happened to be in as to what style I was to worship in. And then they’re came the day when I just decided, that “this” was the style of worship that God had laid upon my heart and I began worshiping as I felt was the Spirit’s leading no matter where I was. 

But there is a method to madness of worship, and there truly is a little madness in the mix with some people. Who I’ll not mention. I’ll just discuss what the word says about worship, because that’s all that we need to know. 

188 times worship is mentioned in scripture. But in Philippians, Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles tells us of the worship experience and the warnings. 

Philippians 3:1-3 KJVS

[1] Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [2] Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [3] For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

Flesh is certainly an issue with worship. I’ve seen it in action as I’ve watched as people competed to see who could worship the best and the loudest. The most “spiritual.” And then again there are times when I want to say to whom ever sits beside of me “Here, hold my mule,” so I can shout the glory down…. But then I don’t because I wonder if it’s the Spirit or is it me. Perhaps I’m wondering what people will think.  Perhaps I think too much. When I say I haven’t changed, I haven’t, I’m a relatively free wheeling worshipper who shouts Amen! And praises God with lifted hands and all the stuff worshippy! (It’s not a word, I know you grammar natzi’s) but it is a feeling. I don’t however want to bring attention to me. I want to bring attention to God and He alone. 

Questionable Worship

Stifled Worship.

I’ve seen some questionable worship. Such as the “stifled worship” of the religious. Nobody raises their voice above a whisper, and for certain you do not make a spectacle of yourself by raising limbs or standing up. That’s just ridiculous! Rising up is rebellion you heathen. That’s really how I feel when I go to a Spirit stifled church where everyone leaves the same way they came in. Dead. 

Mark 7:6-8 KJVS

[6] He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. [7] Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. [8] For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.

They are pretty people. But I’m pretty sure they’re not God’s favorites. Just saying, not judging. How is God glorified (which is our job by the way) in a dead church? Jesus said they honor Him with their lips but there heart is far from Him. Because if you have Jesus in the right position in your heart, your heart is about to jump out of your chest. It’s exciting! Here, hold my mule and I’ll tell you about it. 

Secular Worship

Wait a minute. How can there be secular worship when secular means nonreligious, nonchurch, temporal, worldly, earthly, profane; unsanctified, unconsecrated, unhallowed? If a church believes they should agree with and stand with other god serving religions, accept lifestyles that go against biblical principles, and support decisions that take the life of an unborn child, then God’s not in their church. He is holy. He will not be where sin abounds. Scripture makes that very clear. So there can be all appearances of a spiritual service, but God’s not in it, because their hearts are not serving Him. Am I judging. No. I’m reading the Bible. 

I follow on instagram, a conservative, right wing, outspoken young black man who is HIGHLY opinionated when it comes to conservative things, but he’s a proud gay man with an effeminate  character. I follow him out of curiosity in hopes that the Lord will one day open the door for me to speak with him and ask him (in love, not hatred) how can he say the Bible is the inerrant word of God and be gay without remorse? It’s the same as a church saying the previously mentioned things are okay, but their God’s people. No, if you were God’s people you’d never under any circumstance say His book and Word was wrong. 

If you belong to a church who puts their seal of approval on sin. Leave. That’s my advice. 

Simple Worship

In my travels I’ve been to many little country churches across the nation. And  many of them have been my favorites. There is no choir, except the congregation which may have been counted on no more than two hands. There is no fancy pews, just hardwood, backbreaking, bottom hurting benches! The preacher isn’t a college graduate. Sometimes he’s not a high school graduate. But what He is is God’s man and God teaches His own. In the words of Tony Morgan, “Simple People have Simple Ways.” Indeed. And sometimes it’s just what God wants. No fluff, just favor. And the Spirit of God in His people whose love is evident. Simple worship. They may be God’s favorite. 

I’ve always felt like God’s favorite. I’m not. But God makes all His children feel that way who love His presence and look forward to His coming. The churches who are not following and studying His book may not even be aware that He’s coming back. Some have even denounced it. Because we can do that you know. Tell God what He’s going to do. Oh… my …. Stars… the arrogance of this world we live in! 

Silly Worship

I almost didn’t address it. Because some of these people I adore. They’re good hearted, Bible believing children of God, but they’re picking and choosing what parts of the Bible they want to focus on. Most will tell you every word is truth, but certain words mean more or certain actions mean more. They border on works because of their belief that if you don’t do certain things, the Spirit of God is not on you or in you. There’s a problem with that.

1 Corinthians 14:23 – If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? 

Anytime any church does something that causes mass confusion, it’s not of God. Because the scripture says in 1 Corinthians 14:33  – For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. That clears up the issue of tongues for me. Only one time in my entire life have I been interpreted to by a Pentecostal friend when speaking in tongues.  It was not an open church service, it was a private prayer. They spoke in tongues, not I. I still didn’t understand it. But I appreciated their respect of my belief and I respected theirs. We have an awesome friendship of peace. I don’t think the people are silly, but to an unsaved person, who may be looking for Jesus, I can almost guarantee they’ll think it’s silly and it won’t point anyone of them to Jesus. Which is our job. 

So what do I consider acceptable worship? 

It’s not what’s acceptable to me that matters. It’s what lines up with scripture and what points people to Jesus. It’s not how others worship that matter to me, unless they’re apart of my congregation and they’re worship is disruptful or unbiblical. Many years ago we had a group come into our church to sing and one of the singers got “happy in the Lord” and ran the aisle. Then he slid into home plate. Literally! Slid down the aisle leaving black tread marks from his shoes on the carpet. The church janitor who had to scrub those black marks out of the carpet was not a happy camper. It turns out a few years later we found out that the aisle runner was having an affair with the lead singer… dear gussy! 

The question would be, was he happy in the Lord, or was he covering for sinful behavior? Again… that ain’t none of my business. But it calls into question, why people do what they do? God know the motive and that should scare false prophets to death. 

Now let me tell you of another time when I fake praised. I was struggling spiritually for reasons beyond my control. I didn’t want to bring attention to my issues because with attention would bring unwanted questions and hard feelings when I’d have to say why I couldn’t say. So I fake praised, and it was no doubt apparently fake. But nobody questioned and I was cool. Right or wrong, God will have to decide. As will he on the cause of all others who praise without the Spirit’s involvement. 

I guess that’s a pretty lengthy blog post today, but I really needed to get it off my mind. And I pray it helps you when it comes to your relationship with God. Worship in Spirit and Truth. And that alone. Amen.

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith, Life Inspiration

The “Blinky” Milk Face of Religion

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Trying to find volunteers for church positions is often like asking someone to volunteer to drink the milk to see if it’s spoiled (or blinky as we called it as children). I’ve often times been given the same face. I’m not blowing my own horn, just stating a fact, that for 20 years I have taught youth classes. It’s honestly been one of my greatest joys. And I can certainly hear folks say “Well Shari, I just don’t enjoy it, it’s a lot of additional work in my life.” Yep. Sure is. But let’s talk the future of the Kingdom of God. 

The Lacking of Faith

Paul ask the Thessalonians in Chapter 3:9-10 of 1 Thessalonians

[9] For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; [10] Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?

To Shari quote it “How can I thank God for the opportunity to serve you, see you and help you grow in the Lord?” 

Does it sound like he was more than a little excited?! I totally get it. No greater time do I have than when I’m in the teen department listening to them ask and answer questions about scripture, all the while giggling over something totally silly. I also get when 20 minutes before I leave, I’m exhausted from a day at work for which my brain says, “Stay home Shari, you need rest.” I get that it’s additional work on top of already hectic lives or that you’ve already done your tour of duty. (Remember 20 years) Oh… but the joy! 

The pure joy in knowing that you’ve helped a child to grow in his or her faith. That you’ve allowed them to see the joy of the Lord. Not the “blinky milk face of religion.” Those who see no need to volunteer in the church are part of the cause of a lack of faith in the church. Those who think Sunday School and Wednesday Night Bible Study aren’t necessary are those who cause a lack of faith in their own lives. Every time I study, whether it be for myself, my ministry or the classes I teach, I learn something new. I learn something that helps me be a better person, and boy o boy does this world need better people!

If you are struggling with life, for what ever reason, I can almost guarantee you aren’t getting enough gospel. I haven’t been feeling the best lately and it wasn’t until this morning, when I knew it was about time to get my prescriptions filled, that I realized I had missed 6 morning doses of my medicines this month (which are many pills). Yea, that probably has something to do with me not feeling well. But the same holds true if you’re not fueling your spirit with the word of God and the fellowship of the saints. It causes a lack of faith when you need it the most.

A Lack of Love

Paul prayed that God would lead them to His people: 

 [11] Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you. [12] And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: [13] To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.

He did so because of his great love for the children of God and his concern for their souls. It begs the question: “How concerned are you for your people.” God has placed people in our lives, in our path, to edify our souls, that we may be “Unblameable before God.” Because of a lack of love, and a lack of faith, there’s going to be plenty of blame to go around. 

Last night I had 6 teens in my class. I was grateful for those six souls!!! But I couldn’t help feeling great sorrow for the teens who never experience church in the way those six did last night. In just one short hour I watched human relationships grow in the Lord, and grow into adulthood. 

Several months ago the teens painted a slogan on the wall of their class room that says “You gotta Grow up!” It’s from 1 Corinthians 13:11

[11] When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

In so many ways the kids in my class are more spiritually mature than many adults. And yet… they giggle like children because they are. They also make me giggle. Oh the joy! 

The teens don’t always get along. They have days when they get on each other’s nerves, much like the adults. They’re not all on the same level spiritually. Some have barely stepped into the water of faith. It’s often easy for the churched kids to be “shocked” that an unchurched kid doesn’t know the basic spiritual truths. I wish they’d known me at 34 years of age. I knew nothing! But it’s always a good lesson to remind them that it’s okay not to know so long as you’re willing to learn. They also need to know it’s the responsibility of those of us who do know to shine the light into the lives of those who don’t. And to never, never, ever, give someone the blinky milk face because they don’t understand the word of God. 

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

The Certainty of Salvation

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

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

The Persuaders

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

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

Anger Persuades Me

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

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

The Spirit Persuades Me

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

The Word of God Persuades Me

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

Death Persuades Me

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

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

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

Posted in Bible Journaling, Eternity, Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Political, Youth

The Day Religion played Politics

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Last night was our Wednesday Night Bible Study at Victory Baptist Church and I dashed in the door at the last minute. I had come home from work earlier and sat down “for a minute” in the recliner before church. That minute somehow turned into an hour and I was almost late after a much needed nap from staying up with the election results. Well, I guess results isn’t a good word. 

My heart was a little broken. I felt like our country had betrayed our President and his job well done wasn’t appreciated. But my lesson for the night was on lying. And how not to believe a lie. I feel such an obligation to help my teens with life. I love listening to their little adult minds share their daily struggles and taking those angsts and making them into a lesson. Sometimes I’m the teacher, sometimes I’m the student. 

Last night they shared with me how they felt as they watched America determine their future without regard. Such maturity! 

We spoke about living in a society where the truth is not regarded of high importance. How it takes a toll on us personally and even Christians pay little attention to the ethical behavior of people. It’s just a part of life. But that is far from God’s reaction!

The first recorded lie in the Bible was in Genesis 3:1

Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?

Imagine that day for God. He watched as the beings He had created betrayed Him. Satan, who at that time was called Lucifer, was created to be one of the most beautiful of God’s angelic host. That beauty had caused him to elevate himself (in his own mind) to desiring the role of God. And the desire turned in to the act of betrayal and the fall of man. I can’t imagine the level of broken-hearted ness the Lord experienced that day. I realize He’s all knowing, it didn’t catch Him off guard, but that would not have stopped the God of such compassion from feeling the slap across His face that Satan had yielded and Adam and Eve had fallen for. And so it began, the wickedness of men that over time certainly hasn’t gotten any better. 

But there came a day, Glory to God! When redemption of the world occurred in another act of betrayal, forgiveness and restitution for every sin, past, present and future. In the most dramatic turn of events man has ever known. I wasn’t there, I really don’t have too much of a concept on the power of the situation. My mind cannot comprehend the level of intensity of that day. But I’m grateful none the less, and I’m grateful for this message. I needed it. Maybe you do too in light of our current days of uncertainty. 

As I went in to election night, I had a sense of calm. I knew that God had it in control, and that regardless of the outcome, I was okay. That’s a nice religious statement isn’t it? It was true, but as the night progressed my sense of calm waned. Until I finally went to bed in frustration. I couldn’t shake the feeling of deception across America. The “magic votes” that just “appeared” in other States and the arrogance of the leftist who loved to mock President Trumps reactions to their wickedness. 

I was unsettled. But still believing God’s providence over the situation. I have to. My trust in Him is the only thing that keeps me sane. 

Hebrews 6:17-20 KJV

[17] Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: [18] That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: 

The world will lie. God will not. He is willing more abundantly; meaning He wants to heap upon us, his children, the counsel through the Spirit and He promises it. It’s one thing that makes us far more advantaged in this world with regards to what’s been happening. The confusion heaped upon us because of the circumstances of politics and the virus, the arguments and differences of opinions are what Satan is using to discourage us from listening to the Holy Spirit. He knows if he can cause enough distractions our focus likely will cause us to miss God’s guidance. And we’ll most certainly not be focused on His immutability, unchanging God! Our world may change, but our God will not.

Two things never change:

It is impossible for God to lie the strong consolation (comfort) we have in that fact. Being able to trust someone without question brings great comfort! We not only have comfort, we have hope!!!!

[19] Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; [20] Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

Trust, comfort and hope are built in a relationship, the closer we get to God, the greater will understand the working of the Spirit. 

The mention of “the veil” in verse 19 is what brought me to the thought of “the day Religion played Politics.” Imagine the arrogance and glee Satan got having thought he had defeated God. All of the conniving behind the scenes and betrayal by using the religious crowd, the political crowd and the gullibility of Judas to set that plan in action. But what none of them knew was that the very plan they had set into action was the very plan God had orchestrated from the beginning of time to redeem man and restore our relationship with Himself. Proven by the renting of the veil from top to bottom and meaning that there was nothing that stood between the Lord and His people any longer. 

And so it was as I sat trying to conceal my brokenness to the teens last night that I suddenly realized they had once again taught me by allowing God to work through their lesson and remind me that God will take care of the arrogance and pride in this world once more. And regardless of the outcome, we are one day closer to the return of Christ when we will meet Hope face to face. There will be no more hurt feelings by us or God and all will be right with the world. There will be no elections because we are the elect of God, the ones He has chosen to be His children, yes! He elected us and we ran unopposed because nobody is a match for the will and the Word of God!

That arrogant tribe of today will not likely read my blog, but that’s okay. I encouraged myself, and I pray I encouraged you!

Posted in Life Inspiration

A Million Mic Drop Moments

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The Bible is filled with them. And every one that I read makes my souls leap within my body because I know that I am one too! Read Acts 4 and let it stir your soul as it did mine, I’ve only used a portion of it for todays post,  but I want you to think just for a second on your own life, and how many “mic drop” moments their might have been?

Acts 4:8-14 KJV

[8] Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, [9] If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; [10] Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. [11] This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. [12] Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. [13] Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. [14] And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

To the Arrogant Leader and Politician

I know that we don’t have the exclusive on that title, but we have our share of both in our small West Virginia community. I detest arrogance. I can tolerate belligerent and obnoxious, but I have no patience for arrogance. The word says that “pride cometh before the fall.” But the problem for me is, I want the fall to be immediate and God is far more patient. Which is a doggone good thing for me, else I’d be the first one down! But I want that mic drop moment to come sooner. However…

Your Time Will Come

Peter called’em out!

In the verse prior to this those arrogant rulers ask, “By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?” And so, Peter answered in great detail. It was in the name of Jesus that they had healed the lame man and made him walk; the same Jesus that Peter reminded them that they had killed. 

We have a politician in our own community for which he thinks the sun rises and sets in himself. He is one that attends church and yet, when I did a puppet show in an area elementary school for Christmas, he complained that I sang songs of Christ. Hello? I needed a mic drop that day. I didn’t get it. But 300 children sang along to songs about the birth of the Lord Jesus, and the mic drop will come. Perhaps it did that day as they sang. But for certain on the day this man stands before Jesus heading into eternity, he will answer for it unless he gets his heart right prior to that day. 

The religious leaders of Peter’s day have had their day before the Lord. As will the rest of us as we stand and answer for what we’ve done for the Lord in the days that’s been given. But those who have a problem with the name of Jesus (I don’t think they’re saved…yes, I’m callin’ them out) It’s not for me to judge, but anyone who’s ashamed of Jesus, God’s ashamed of them. And me too… even though my opinion doesn’t count. 

What counts in this life is the fact of whether or not you know Him as Savior. Not just know the name, because most everyone in the world does, but do you know Him as Savior and Lord? Those Pharisees of the day had seen Jesus face to face, and yet they refused to believe Who He was. That problem still exists today. He may not physically be on earth, but His presence is obvious.

To the Ignorant and Unlearned

Before you get offended, I consider myself in that group! Just a commoner! I’m not against education, but I’m not always a fan of it. I’ve watched more people come out of colleges damaged by the world than better off. And I’ve watched preachers, who have no degree from an institution but have the greatest degree of wisdom from the Holy Spirit! I’ll take the ignorant and unlearned any day if they follow God over the preacher that follows his “education.” Don’t give me big words, give me the gospel!

It wasn’t Peter that stopped the persecution and shut up those naysayers of the gospel. It was the evidence that stood in the crowd. The man healed. They couldn’t argue with it. And if those of us who have been healed would show the evidence of that in our lives, we could shut up people of today! But the problem is people are afraid to tell the world what Jesus has done because they don’t want to look like a fanatic. Well, for the record, I’m a fanatic! And as my friend Doyle Ballengee used to say, “Go ahead and call me a fanatic, if you hear the “C” word (cancer) you’ll be looking for a fanatic!” 

That too was mic drop moment. 

Posted in Bible Journaling, Easter, Eternity, Faith, Life Inspiration

Take Heed!

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Take Heed!

Matthew 16:6 KJV

Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

Of this text J.C. Ryle wrote: 

I believe that our Lord delivered this solemn warning for the perpetual benefit of that Church which He came to earth to establish. He spoke with a prophetic knowledge. He knew well the diseases to which human nature is always liable. He foresaw that the two great plagues of His Church on earth would always be the doctrine of the Pharisees and the doctrine of the Sadducees.

He later said in that article that the Pharisees doctrine could be summed up in three words, “formalists, tradition-worshippers and self-righteous.” The doctrine of the Sadducees could be summed up in the three words, “free-thinking, skepticism, and rationalism.”

J.C.Ryle died in 1900. I wonder what his thinking would be in the 21st century. We’ve certainly came along way since his day, and not for the better. 

As a new convert I remember being told the way to remember the two sects of religion was to remember that the Pharisees, were “not fair, you see,” and the Sadducees, were “sad, you see,” because they didn’t believe in the resurrection. Another good summation of two very religious groups.

I try to be anything but religious. I came out of religion. Religion is what was about to send me to Hell as it allowed me to go to church, hear a sermon and remain unmoved or unchanged. I didn’t consider it as such because unlike the Pharisees I wasn’t judgmental, but perhaps I was more the “free-thinking” Sadducee. Seeking a sign, not a Savior. 

Jesus described it best in Matthew 23:15 when he said “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.”

I would have considered myself a child of Hell. And if that makes you nauseous, imagine how it makes me feel. To realize because of “religion.” I was two times closer to Hell, than Heaven. So I take Jesus’ warning very serious and desire to tell the world of my relationship with Christ, not my religion.

I’m not seeking a sign, I have a Savior

Matthew 16:1-12 KJVS

[1] The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. [2] He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. [3] And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? [4] A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.

I don’t have to seek a sign, they’re everywhere! If the religious leaders of that day had only come with a heart open to hearing the gospel they too could have discerned the signs. But they didn’t. The Pharisees and Sadducees much like the world today were closed minded to anything other than their ways. Religion wants it written in black and white. But Jesus wrote it in red on the cross. That’s not logical. Religion loves to make it about self. But Jesus took self out of the equation and let it be known that there is nothing you can do to be saved. Nothing. He took it all to the cross with His final sacrifice. But religion needs to do “something.” 

I’m not seeking a reason, I was the reason

[5] And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. [6] Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. [7] And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. [8] Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread?

Even though I know in my heart of hearts why Jesus did what He did, it’s still hard for me to fathom that He would do that for me. I know how unworthy I am. It doesn’t make sense. Until, I think of it it respect to my children. My daughter Whitney is in Texas right now with her husband and children. And though it’s not the same as those who have been separated from family because of death or other harsh reasons, it’s still tough on this momma. I know they’re fine. But I can’t see them and touch them. That must have been how God felt when Adam and Eve sinned in the garden. He could no longer be in their presence. I know how it breaks my heart, but that’s got to be a drop in the bucket by comparison to God’s broken heart. Which is why He was willing to got to the cross. And why He hates religion. It’s not about what we do, it’s about what He did. And every time religion makes it about self, it’s as if we’re saying what He did wasn’t good enough. That is beyond heartbreaking. 

I’m not seeking religion, I want the Relationship!

 [9] Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? [10] Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? [11] How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? [12] Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

That is why J.C. Ryle’s words hit me so hard this morning. In this day of disease (COVID19) the greater disease is not that, but rather the disease of Pharisee and Sadducee doctrine. It spreads through this earth like wildfire and is being broadcast on every form of media. It’s all about self reliance, fault finding and skepticism. The world does everything possible to get our minds off of Christ and onto the disease. When, what it should do, is cause us to realize that our only hope lies in Him. He who took death upon Himself on the cross so that we would only die once, and then live an eternal life with Him, never to be separated again. Without Him death is twice, once in this life, the second an eternal death in Hell, forever separate from our Lord and family and friends. 

But the world doesn’t want you to hear that. But it’s the truth. And I’m so grateful,  that while the world seeks the cure for COVID19, I found the cure regardless of the outcome. Jesus. He is my hope. He is why I “can” live in victory. And not in fear.  However… I’m human. This world takes its toll on me. And that is why I heed the warning of the Lord, not to have a Pharisee or Sadducees heart, because I can. I cannot lose my salvation, but I can lose my hope and peace if I listen to religion and not my relationship. 

How’s your relationship this day before our greatest of all Holiday celebrations? When HOPE arose f rom the grave! Glory!