Tag: Romans 1

Posted in Christian, Evangelism, Family, Fear, Leadership, Word of God

Hating Sin is Not Prejudice, It’s Biblical

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Hating Sin is Not Prejudice, It’s Biblical

Being raised in a Christian home with sweet parents who chastised the hurting of feelings or sarcasm that is spoken today (in my home as well) it’s not easy being an outspoken child of God. My upbringing tells me to “shush,” while my heart says “line that heathen out!” and the Spirit of God says, “Woah Shari… speak My words, not your own.” God’s words are not spoken in hate, they’re spoken in love. And hating sin, is not hating the sinner. We are all sinners.

So what’s a gal to do when the “Pride” of America is continually in your face with an ungodly agenda that is aimed at children. Be not deceived, the LBGTQ etc, etc, etc, does not care about my or your opinion, their focus is on our children. The group of video clip images that I put together below is from a video the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus put on YouTube last year. The clips are the lyrics of a song where they unashamedly make their agenda known. There is no doubt they will tell you this video was mean to fight the discrimination of their lifestyles and choices, which is true, but it takes nothing away from the meaning of the lyrics.

If the lyrics are not plain, they read like this:
  • You think that we’ll corrupt your kids
  • If our agenda goes unchecked
  • Funny, Just this once
  • you’re correct.
  • We’ll convert your children
  • Happens bit by bit
  • Quietly and subtly
  • And you will barely notice it.

If you think that agenda is only in California you would be deceived. It flows all the way to Calhoun County, West Virginia, I have witnessed it first hand myself. It’s extremely scary and it’s why mid June, (gay pride month) I’m ready to puke at the site of a symbol that still belongs to God although they’ve hijacked it temporarily. 🌈

The church, no denomination, but the body of Christ, has got to stand up and protect our kids. If a snake was creeping through the grass to attack your children, you’d take the steps necessary to stop the threat. This is no different. The agenda of the current political leftist and organizations as mentioned before is to confuse our children, and we’re allowing it to happen in a place that’s supposed to be educating them for the good. Everything from children’s stories to high school curriculum is now inundated with language meant to cause children to question creation.

Be not Deceived, Nor Ashamed

Paul said in Romans 1

1:16-32 KJV
[16] For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. [17] For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Just as my parents tried to teach me to be still, not speak out of turn, and to never say anything that would hurt people’s feelings, the world now tells me the same thing for a different reason. God made everyone different, red, yellow, black and white and now rainbow, furries and every alphabet letter under the sun and all are “acceptable” and should be embraced as truth according to society. My grandsons jokingly spoke of the litter boxes that would soon be placed in their school to accommodate the “furries” (children who identify as animals) and again my stomach rolls over. I know their joking, but this is happening in America where children are permitted to behave as animals and disrupt classes without discipline, because it will hurt their little feeling This has happened because people who know God, and those who don’t but have at least common sense, have failed to open their mouths and say “enough.”

Be not Dumb, Nor Accepting

[18] For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; [19] Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. [20] For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: [21] Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. [22] Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

There is a fear that is instilled in the heart of man from birth. I believe it because I’ve felt it. As an unsaved child I knew there was a God. I knew I would stand before Him some day and I feared that day because, at that time, I had not gotten right with Him by accepting the sacrifice His Son made for me. Praise God, of all the evil I allowed myself to be exposed to, none of it took over my soul’s ability to discern right from wrong even though I didn’t always listen. But there comes a time where the scripture says that God gives them over to a reprobate mind and stops convicting them of their wickedness and they completely embrace it. Which is what has happened all across our country. Am I saying that they cannot be saved? No. That’s between them and God. But i can tell you the longer they accept wrong as right, they’ll be confused about it all.

Be not Defiled, nor Accused

I have countless Christian friends, and praise God the vast majority of them are wise and unaffected by the world’s viewpoint. But there are others, who do not fall into that category. I’ve struggled myself at times, because I want to be nice. I don’t want to tell someone they’re wrong. It might hurt their feelings and my Mother would give me that look. But it’s been a while since I’ve worried about that. Listen to Paul’s words in the upcoming verses.

[23] And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. [24] Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: [25] Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. [26] For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: [27] And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. [28] And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; [29] Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, [30] Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, [31] Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: [32] Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

Is there any doubt what God thinks of homosexuality and the other nonsense going on in the sexually immoral world we live in? No. It’s clear as crystal and right as rain. And yet there are good Christian people who say they don’t know what the Bible says about homosexuality and believes that God is “okay” with it.

Is He okay with it when He says that behavior is worthy of death? And do you want your children or grandchildren or nieces and nephews, or friends standing in the judgment of God because you did not take a stand against sin? I’m asking me as well. I told you that I struggle with being “nice.” But I have determined in my heart that this battle against my grandchildren is as real as the one between Russia and Ukraine.

I had a preacher’s child tell me not long ago that Jesus said nothing about homosexuality. It broke my heart. I knew they were raised to know different, but the world had gotten their claws into this child’s soul and wasn’t going to let go easily. If you have children in your life… get on some armor from the word of God. You’re going to need it.

Posted in Faith, Grace

My Thoughts and Hope for America

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on My Thoughts and Hope for America

It’s unbelievable that twenty years have passed since that horrible day that will forever live in the memories of Americans. As I heard again the words of then President Bush say that it was an “Islamic attack”, and now to scroll forward into the present age and hear the rhetoric of the far left and their insistence that America embrace the Taliban, I’m saddened and I’m sickened at the state of our national leadership. Washington DC has never had much of a spine, but their current intent is nothing less than sabotage of America past. The fact that America is not mentioned in scripture certainly leaves our future in question, and if we do not stand together as men and women against what our leadership is doing, it’s a done deal.

I’m not a dooms day reporter. I’m not even a very good realist. I tend to lean more to the “Little Susie Sunshine.” But I will always stand on the side of the Lord Jesus Christ, and that is not the side of our national leadership right now. 

My thoughts this morning as I pray for our country and us, is to praise God for grace. 

Romans 5:6 KJVS

[6] For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

Christ died for Shari Hardway Johnson, but He also died for the every other person on this earth, even those that I’m having a very hard time having any compassion for right now. Today as I think about the heartbreak of all those who lost someone on 9/11, I ask God’s Spirit to create in me a heart of forgiveness for those who have launched any attack on our country and our God from within and without. I will not embrace their ideologies, nor will I condone or ignore the stupidity of people who justify what has happened in our country. If you voted for the current administration, and you continue to support them, it’s you that I’m praying God will help me to love. Because this morning I’m feeling very human. 

I cannot ignore the fact that I’m human and far from sinless. But to those who say all sins are viewed the same in God’s eyes, I don’t believe that.  Sin is sin. There are sins of omission, (unknowingly). There are sins of commission (knowingly). But there comes a point when God gives to the unrepentant heart that embraces this world and turns their back on Him, exactly what they want. But the result will not be what they thought.

Paul wrote a letter to the Romans that addressed the very issues we face today. 

Romans 1:21-32 KJVS

[21] Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. [22] Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, [23] And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. [24] Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: [25] Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. [26] For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: [27] And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. [28] And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; [29] Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, [30] Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, [31] Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: [32] Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

My mind is in a solemn place this morning. But I have not lost my hope in Christ for the Nation of America. 

Posted in Leadership, Life Inspiration, Word of God

The Undeniable Untruth

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Undeniable Untruth

I’m sure I’m dating myself with the image of soda pop bottles that I well remember saving up and returning for a deposit of 3 cents each, possibly 10 cents each by the time they stopped collecting them and went to plastic. The “Uncola” advertisements began running in 1968 for the 7-Up brand; though I’ve never really been a 7-Up fan, unless it was in a punch bowl with sherbet, pineapple juice and HC fruit punch, but that probably doesn’t count. UnCola was a great description because it wasn’t anything like Cola! Just like the garbage the world is feeding us today isn’t anything like the truth. 

A few sweet tidbits to chew on today: 

God’s righteousness won’t be perverted by the world no matter how hard they try.

You can fabricate a lie but you cannot fabricate or disprove genuine truth. It either is or it ain’t.

The UnAshamed

Romans 1:16-32 KJVS

[16] For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. [17] For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

There’s plenty in my life that I could be ashamed of, but the gospel isn’t one of them. In it is the power of salvation! Glorrraaay! That should put a shout on you if you’re a child of God. Every time I read the word of God my soul starts stirring inside. I love that feeling. But how do you explain that to the lost? It should be evidenced in your life, but too often people aren’t watching you be a successful saint, but rather they hone in your sucky sinful side. I am aware. But that doesn’t stop me from proclaiming the gospel because it is the gospel that lead me to His saving grace. Most people love a good life application and the scriptures are a whole book of life applications. Christ used people of the day as illustration, so should we not? I love telling about people in my life who have won victory over things in their lives that have taken many a good man or woman down. Their stories have helped me to fight my own demons. I’ve also draw strength from telling my own stories and reminiscing about the victory of serving such a God who hears your cry.

The Unrighteous and The Ungodly

[18] For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

And there it is: the untruth. Society is denying the truths of God. they can’t disprove it, they don’t even attempt that. They simply deny it again and again and scream the lie as loud as they can again and again, until the world hears it enough and then says, “Oh yeah, that must be true.” They did it with Darwinism until the educated became idiots through education. Preach!!! All you have to do is throw a few letters behind someone’s name and suddenly they have credibility. My own insecurities used to cause me to clam up in front of well educated people until I realized that the Devil was using that to squelch the truth. 

I worked with a PHD fella once that ask me where I got the information that homosexuality was a sin. I opened my bible and  read him Romans 1:26-27. His only response was, “Oh.” He didn’t even question it. The problem with most educated people is they’ve been educated by biblically uneducated people. They don’t know what the Bible says because they’ve never bothered to read it, rather they’re believing the lie that it is an antiquated book of no modern value.

The very fact that we have allowed Critical Race Theory (CRT) to come as far as it has into the public school system proves the ignorance of educated people. While they suggest and rant about discrimination among Christians toward people because of their sexual preference going against scriptural principles, the same “educated” people are embracing an ideology that is meant to demean and divide our nation. Take twelve minutes and seventeen seconds and listen to the YouTube link below of a teacher in California fighting CRT coming into their schools 6 months ago. And before you think: 1. It’s California. And 2. It’s not here yet. You’d be wrong. It’s already made it’s way into Calhoun County, West Virginia public schools now. I was told that first hand by a member of the faculty. 

The Unexcused

While their education may get them positional living on earth, it may just get them kicked out of Heaven. 

[19] Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. [20] For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: [21] Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. [22] Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, [23] And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. [24] Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: [25] Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. [26] For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: [27] And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. [28] And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; [29] Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, [30] Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, [31] Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: [32] Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

Tell me where there is anything that can be misunderstood about homosexuality or the many other behaviors of the educated and morally bankrupt leaders in our country. There may be a few “big words” in that text, but there’s enough little ones that even a child could figure it out.  They don’t know the truth because they ignore the truth. But God is clear that He’s not ignoring their behavior. 

Posted in Christian Service, Church attendance, Faith, Life Inspiration

How I Get My Fix

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion 2 Comments on How I Get My Fix

Again and again I write of missing my comrades in faith that have yet to return to church because of the Covid-19. No doubt very much like Paul’s friends were missing him during his ministry work elsewhere. In the very instructional book of Romans, Paul tells His his friends that there is purpose in his desire to meet with them, because he wanted to impart unto them a spiritual gift.

Romans 1:11-18 KJVS
[11] For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;

FIXED FIRMLY IN THE FAITH
That’s what the 1828 Dictionary says about the word “established.” The modern dictionary used the word fixed, but did not add the word firmly. Being fixed firmly in our faith and the spiritual gifts that God has given us means that we are tuned into the purpose God has for us and solid in the practice thereof. Paul knew that a young church would need encouragement to continue on when life got hard. That’s still true, no matter how young or old. I don’t harp on church attendance because I think people are heathens, I repeat and remind the church of their need for one another and the fellowship fo Jesus Christ to firmly fix us during these hard times. Pastor Dolton Robertson tweeted this morning

“I feel like I’m preparing for a long, exhausting walk into the cold darkness of tyrannical revenge and yet, we are far from what the majority of believers throughout history had to endure. The difference-they rejoiced at the stake. I get discouraged over inadequate phone signal.”

Can i get a witness on anyone else who can identify with that? I know God understands when I get frustrated with this world today, but do you think sometimes you can hear Him say. “Will you stop whining for a second so I can speak?” I’m pretty sure I’ve heard that. Praise God for Sunday and Wednesday. It’s how I get my fix on faith. All the loose parts and grinding cogs get tightened and oiled with the Spirit and the word of God.

FIXED FIRMLY IN COMFORT

[12] That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.

My heart receives such comfort from my friends of mutual faith. Friends that I know struggle just like me! Listening to their testimonies of having made it through struggles and trials is such encouragement to my spirit. I know the next time I’m in a dire straight, I can remember of their success and how God brought them through and have hope for my own journey. That’s just one (but a very important one) that we all need.

FIXED FIRMLY IN MY MIND

[13] Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles. [14] I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. [15] So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.

Paul knew there would be disappointment in the church when he was unable to come and teach and preach. I can’t imagine the frustration and disappointment of those who want, but can’t come to church. It has to be greater than mine. Paul had responsibilities to take care of multiple churches. He couldn’t always be there for them. It reminds me of the circuit riding preachers of the day. But when the time came, he’d get to Rome and he’d give them the Gospel. How exciting that must have been!!! I have to believe and encourage myself that my friends will be back. And I hope soon. I have to trust God that this rough patch we’re going through will end. I don’t really think we’ll return to the old normal, but I do believe God is going to bring us back together again. I have to fix my mind firmly on that thought, else it would be too much to bear. We need each other. We have much work to do.

FIXED FIRMLY IN MY FACTS
[16] For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. [17] For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

The fact is, we need each other to strengthen our faith. When we see others praying and serving it encourages us to go on with our own ministry work. And yes! You have work to do. How else will you have nourishment for your spirit? Sharing your faith, (faith to faith) builds our confidence in why we continue. Getting re-oiled like the tin man… or woman as the case may be, every time we study the word of God, share the word of God, pray for each other and receive the answers. All of these fixes us firmly in the facts of the gospel. We know its true because we’re experiencing it and expressing it to each other.

The Bible is unlike any other book. You cannot just read it once and think that you’ve received all you need in wisdom. Everyday. Everyday. Every day. Get some word in you. And at every opportunity get some time with your people… we need each other. That’s how I get my fix.

Posted in Bible Journaling, Grace, Word of God

The Real Rainbow Still Shines

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Real Rainbow Still Shines

I’ve spoken of it on many other occasions: the fact that my upbringing causes me not to say what’s on my heart and mind because it’s seemingly impolite.  Never mind the fact that it’s the truth. And especially never mind the fact that everyone else is intitled and can ram their opinions down my throat, in my face and stick it to my heart with a dagger, but I should smile and say, “thank you, have a nice day, please come again.”

Did that sound bitter? It’s really not. It’s just frustrating.

And so today as I study my way through Romans, God laid the deer image on my heart. I hesitated to publish my words. I could just use this as my own personal study; keeping my thoughts to myself rather than risking the chance at offending. But then I thought of Paul. Who was martyred for the Word of God and most of all Jesus Who died for me. Why should I keep silent about the angst in my heart and my desire to see the lost come to the saving grace of Christ. The fact that I want them in Heaven with me. The only way to do so, is through the word of God.

I had just heard Paul say, only a few verses before. “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.” Verse 16 of Chapter 1.

And so in love, I share my heartfelt plea to those who have made homosexuality their life style. And my honest opinion that the use of the rainbow for the pride agenda is a slap in the face of God, for which someone will stand accountable for.

The rainbow was a covenant symbol between God and man in Genesis 9:

11 And I will establish my covenant with you, neither shall all flesh be cut off any more by the waters of a flood; neither shall there any more be a flood to destroy the earth. 12 And God said, This is the token of the covenant which I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: 13 I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth.

We don’t speak in that phraseology today. “Covenant” isn’t a word you often hear. Even by definition, it doesn’t mean in man’s terms what it meant in God’s. Because God’s covenant’s will stand the test of time.

This weekend is mine and David’s 39th wedding anniversary. It’s hard to imagine that those two kids who walked across my parent’s lawn on August 16, 1980, and said their vows have survived what we have. It’s not been easy, and it’s only been by the grace of Almighty God. Divorce would have been easier at times than fighting through the battles we did. But we made it because we both believe in the covenant of marriage.

That bow (rainbow) God placed in the sky was a promise that God’s wrath toward sin would not come through in the flood again. God’s grace would flow through Noah to a world who didn’t appreciate it and God would offer His Son, Jesus Christ, as atonement one day for all of mankind. It did not however, promise that judgment would not come. It will.

I am sad to say that I will not buy anything with a rainbow on it. I just can’t. The pride agenda has tarnished that beautiful image of God for me. But every time I see one in the sky, I think to myself, “They can’t do that.” They cannot place a beautiful arch in the sky.” Not like my Lord!

And so today I took back the rainbow, and placed it over my husband’s favorite critters. (although for him he likes them seasoned and smoked on the grill.) For me I love the fact that they cannot change the fact that nature knows and obeys God’s design.

And so I shar His word. In truth and love. ~ Shari. The Jesus Chick.

Questions? feel free to message me. Let’s talk about it.

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism, Leadership, Purpose

For God is My Witness

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On my radar of hopes, prayers and desires for the past five or six years has been an Albuquerque, NM trip, Not entirely for selfish reason, but I must confess there is always some selfishness in my hopes and dreams, because they become so very personal.

I will not say that my trip is in line with the desires of Apostle Paul, because when Apostle Pauls said “by any means,” that was sometimes as a prisoner on a boat with a shipwreck in the future! I am not that brave. And while I would prefer a first-class flight, that’s a bit expensive too, so I opted for a less than typical mode of transportation. The train. It’s a long trip, but it’s much cheaper, and I think a little bit of an adventure. I’m always up for that! Especially if it gets me in a new part of the country where God can use me.

And so as I begin to study my way through the book of Romans, with a heavy heart about more than a few things… this trip being one, Paul’s words spoke to my already tender heart.

For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, and without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; – Romans 1:9

God is my witness, that although I fail Him miserably and I will not say that I pray without ceasing… I cease. But, I do serve Him with my spirit in the gospel of His Son. I am passionate about my role in the Kingdom There’s something about traveling that makes my heart flutter with joy, because I know it will be an adventure and I know that if I go in His name and in His will, He will make things happen.

Why Albuquerque? Good question. And it deserves an answer. It was 6 plus years ago that I connected through social media with Radio man Dewey Moede. God was dealing with Dewey’s heart to leave his job and go full time ministry. I was struggling with that same issue. I still am. Although I’m full time, it’s not quite what I had in mind.

Kind of like when Paul’s boat hit that storm. I’m sure he would have preferred even coach tickets. He wasn’t expecting first class. But what he got was the prisoner’s pass. I’ve felt like that many times in the past 5 years. I’m not asking for sympathy, I don’t deserve it, I just want to be real.

Paul continued in verse 10 to say, making requests, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.

And there it was. The train trip (at length) made sense, and the fact that God could prosper my journey through the winning of souls or the encouragement of the church made my soul rejoice. Some might say I’m making the word fit the circumstances. I don’t believe that because the last thing I want to be is out of the will of God. I will say that my circumstances fit into the word.

When Paul wrote his letter to the Romans, he’d never met them. They were a group of believers that left Peter’s conference, also known as “Pentecost” and went back to their country and got busy planting churches and spreading the gospel. Paul had hopes and dreams of meeting those he’d heard about, and encouraging them in their faith.

He wanted to impart to them some spiritual gift! Me too! He wanted to comfort them! Me too! The work of the ministry is a struggle. It’s worth every bit of it, but there are days it’s not easy to go on. I spend much of my time encouraging believers and ministries by offering them my help using the gifts I’ve been given in music, graphic arts and speaking.

My desire is to do that more and more and travel anywhere the Lord leads. Like New Mexico.

The price on that ticket stub is the cost today of the ticket only, there are other expenses as well. It may go up as time goes by. I’m also not going alone, I plan to go with my bestie Glo, who’s been a part of my ministry from the beginning. If you’d like to contribute, that would be more than awesome and more than appreciated. You can contribute through the Paypal button below, or contact me directly.

If you’d like to be a part of the Jesus Chick Ministry, by prayer, financial or you’d like to know more about what I do through out the week, message me, I’m an open book! It’s the gospel.

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism, Purpose, Uncategorized, Word of God

We are People of Purpose

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on We are People of Purpose

Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

Romans 1:1

And that’s all the further I made it before my mind started reeling. Thinking about Paul, who he was, who he became, and the fact I’ll meet him some day in glory! And the absolute fact that I am so not like Paul. He was so very committed to everything he did. It reminds me of the children’s rhyme:

There was a little girl who had a little curl
Right in the middle of her forehead
And when she was good, she was very very good.
But when she was bad, she was dreadful!

Sorry! But that’s how my mind works. And that’s kind of how Paul was. When he was a Jewish Pharisee, he was very good at being very bad to the Christians, but when he became a Christian, oh my stars!!! that same zeal that he used to persecute and kill saints of God, he used to spread the gospel every where he went. He sowed seeds that would no doubt harvest a mighty crop of kids for the Kingdom. Oh, that that would be said of me… or you!

We are people of purpose, but we tend to forget it; or at least I do. Maybe you’re better.

As we continue reading Paul gives us more insight on our purpose as he scribes his letter to the children of Rome.

The Gospel

Romans 1:2

 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)

Malachi 4:1-6

1 For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. 2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. 3 And ye shall tread down the wicked; for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet in the day that I shall do this, saith the Lord of hosts. 4 Remember ye the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him in Horeb for all Israel, with the statutes and judgments. 5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: 6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.

That’s the whole chapter, just 6 verses, but my what a kick in the pants and a reminder that this story wasn’t new in  Paul’s day, and it isn’t new in ours, but what it is the prophecy fulfilled, for what the old testament revealed. And Paul’s reminding the church of that very thing.

And there in those 6 verses we see the reminder of why we should be far more diligent at getting the Gospel out. Just as Christ came the first time, He’s coming again; but this time He will not be the gentle man that the world loves to view Him as. He’s coming as King of all and Lord of all and He’ll judge the earth in righteousness. And those who do not know Him as Savior, our chance to see them saved will be gone. Who are we going to meet today that we’ll not see in Heaven? That’s a sobering question.

The Good News

The good news is that though His return is imminent, for the time being we still have time. So, what will you and I do with it? I’m asking myself that question in all seriousness.

Romans 1:3-6

3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; 4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: 5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name: 6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:

If you’re saved, you’ve been called. And unlike the iPhone, you can’t pretend you didn’t see it. You can reject the call, as many of His children do, but somebody is going to suffer the consequences of our disobedience. That’s the bad news.

The Grace

Thank God for it, I’m going to need an abundance.

Romans 1:7

To all that be in Rome,

  • …or Mt. Zion, West Virginia
  • Grantsville, WV
  • Windom, MN
  • Albuquerke, NM
  • Manilla, Philippines
  • Marietta, Ohio

Well, you get the picture.

beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Even in our failures, we are still His beloved. He didn’t die for perfect people, else there would have been no reason. He died for folks like us who failed before we were saved, and we’ve failed afterwards. But the difference is, we now know the whole story. It’s been revealed to us through His word that there is a purpose for us on this big ball of dirt! It’s to tell the world about the wonderful news of Jesus. And that the evilness of this world will be overcome. We will win the victory. But only those who know Jesus.

Who can you share that news with today?

Posted in Bible Journaling, Easter, Eternity, Life Inspiration, Peace, salvation

Even the Easter Bunny Knows

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Even the Easter Bunny Knows

I have no qualms with the Easter Bunny, or Santa Claus or any other fictitious character that has been created to give children happy childhood memories. It did not warp me, nor my children that we were told the Easter Bunny was watching in order to make us behave better, even if it were only for a few days. We gradually and gracefully grew into the wisdom that those characters weren’t real and there was no traumatization. My oldest grandbabies have figured it out too, but continue the charade for their younger siblings, even though any other time they’d love to squash their little dreams.  What baffles me is that the “logical” thinking world has yet to figure out what critters and new creatures in Christ have long since known.

Creation is by the Creator

Of all the things (and there are many) that point me to God as Creator, its critters. My chickens for example. I have plain ol’ ordinary chickens and then I have the “fluffies.” They’re actually called Silkies, and they’re the youngest of our brood. They recently just started laying eggs, and although there are no roosters in the vicinity it still doesn’t stop them from treating their eggs like there’s something other than breakfast inside. I have to fight her off to get the eggs. And she’s not happy about it.

I had been collecting several of their tiny eggs each day, but a few days went by and there were no eggs in the box. It had gotten a little colder and chickens tend to lay fewer eggs during those times, but I really would have thought that out of my four specialty chickens, somebody would have laid an egg. On the third day I went to move their water bin and discovered that everybody’s eggs from the previous three days were hidden behind it. I cracked up! That overprotective hen had pulled a good one on me.

How could that not be intelligent design? How on earth could an explosion create love?  I need to ask no other question for myself to believe in the Creator. Although there are the occasional critters who don’t have the instinct of parenting, (including humans) most understand their responsibility and the exact methods of taking care of their young. Birds know how to nest, and chickens know how to sit and all know how to protect.

Romans 1:20

For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

Regardless of whether or not someone professes that God is God, and Jesus is Lord, and the Holy Spirit dwells within the saved and convicts the lost, doesn’t change the fact that it’s truth. Creation attests to the Creator.

Long before I knew the truth as the truth, God was working in my heart and mind to understand Who He is and who I was. I recently wrote another song titled “Salvation’s Song” and one of the verses speaks of the how I knew I wasn’t saved, and how I knew when I was. Before I was saved… no peace. After I was saved…. PEACE. Only God can make an internal difference. We are created with sin coursing through us. That explains the world. But when God’s presence comes within through the Holy Spirit, Glory to God there is peace on earth. Not outside… but in.

Yes, even the Easter Bunny knows God. Do you?

There’s a link at the top of this page titled “the Road to Salvation.” If you don’t know or are unsure of your salvation, and that if you died today you don’t know if you’d be in Heaven or Hell. CLICK THE LINK. And let me know so I can pray for you.

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Comments and Contributions are always welcome

This blog is in it’s 8th year. Hosted on godaddy.com for the past five. Expenses incurred for the operation of this site are without complaint and with gratitude for the opportunity. If the Lord would impress you to give to help cover some recent technology issues, I’d be grateful. I’ve not been in the world’s workforce for 3 years and for that I glorify God. It’s given me the opportunity to not only write and work on music, but minister to nursing home patients, volunteer in the Christian School teaching art and help other ministries with marketing. All of which require technology, communication, time and gasoline. Again it’s without complain… but just in case you have a desire to help, or have “extra money” 🙂 Know that I would be eternally grateful.

Here’s the Link

 

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

Just Lean in and Go

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Just Lean in and Go

Image may contain: drawingLast night I sang at a sparsely attended revival at Eagle Ranch, on the West Fork of Calhoun County. Don’t be too sad about the attendance level, because God set it up that way. I believe that with all my heart. As Preacher Sebby Volpe said, God may have even kept some away. I believe that too. So you may ask, “Why would God keep people away from a revival?” Perhaps they couldn’t handle the truth Sebby delivered, or they may not have been ready, or just maybe, like in the days of Gideon, God just needed a few. I don’t know, or need to know His reasoning. I only know that I was supposed to be there, and not because I was ask to sing.

Every day is an uphill spiritual battle for me. And lately the hills have been getting steeper and steeper and I question God’s plan more and more. Even this morning as I lay in bed with a desire in my heart to get up and begin writing, I couldn’t get one foot in front of the other to climb out from beneath the covers, not to mention make my way to the computer. And so I laid there in the darkness with the same empty feeling I had before the revival last night. When I finally got out of bed at 7ish I avoided the word of God like a skunk sprayed hound. My friend Gloria will catch that reference from last night’s revival. I even ask myself “why?” God had poured His goodness down on me last night so much so, that when I left that revival I felt like every joint in my body had been lubricated with anointing oil. It was amazing. But this morning the anointing oil had leaked out and it was just Shari in the flesh. Frustrated and down hearted again.

But after a few cups of coffee I finally made my way to the word of God and I ask Him this question:

“What does it mean to be sold out for You?”

His answer didn’t surprise me. Because I had heard it last night in the message from Sebby.

“Don’t be ignorant.”

Now Sebby didn’t say those words. Although I know him, and he would have if God had laid it on his heart to do so. Sebby’s message was more along the lines of the latter part of the verse those words came from.

Romans 1:13-17

13 Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.

THE MISSION NEVER CHANGES

What I’ve discovered is, the Mission never changes, but the direction of the mission can turn on a dime if God so chooses. Paul is telling his friends in Rome that he’d have been there with them, if God hadn’t changed the direction. Paul’s mission was to win souls for the Kingdom of God. And that’s our mission as well. But Paul was tuned into God so closely that when God changed the direction, he didn’t question it, he simply leaned the other way.

THE MASTER NEVER CHANGES

14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.

Indebted to the God of all. And If I (or you) serve the Master, we too are indebted to the Lord to serve both the wise and the unwise, the rich and the poor and all those in between. Those I love and those I have to work to love. The mission doesn’t change. Just lean into it and go. However…

THE METHOD MAY CHANGE

15 So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

From the faithfulness of God, to the faithfulness of man it is God who reveals the methods of delivery, we just need to be ready to lean in the direction God points us in.

When Paul started on his journey with Christ, I highly doubt any of it was comfortable for him. He’d not delivered the message of God in that manner ever before. But God changed his direction 180 degrees and Paul rode it out until the end. And we’re still talking about that ride today. What we view as old school was all new back then. And while God doesn’t change the mission or the message, His methods have certainly changed over time. And almost always with resistance. Change is easier for some than others. For me it’s always came easy. I embrace it! But it still doesn’t stop the fear…

Paul could lean in and go without hesitation because his focus wasn’t on the direction he was going but rather focused on the Lord Who was pointing him in the direction he was to go.

So what did i determine being sold out mean?

Just Lean into it and go…

Posted in Leadership, Life Inspiration

Is there ink on your hands?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Is there ink on your hands?

CHICK NOT APPROVED

Everywhere I turn there seems to be a stamp of approval on sin. It matters not that its saved or unsaved people with the ink on their hands. Our society is such that we’re reliving history as if to say to God, “We believe the end result will be better.” Ha! The phrase History repeats itself is so very cliché and so very true.

Romans 1:24-32 mops the floor with that theory and “should” put every Christian on guard who wants to say that God has changed the rules of what’s right and wrong.

24-28

Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;

Between the rainbow images, Katelyn “I use to be Bruce” Jenner and the constant barrage of anti-straight messages being sent to America my mind is overwhelmed and my heart is broken for the state of our nation. It’s like I went to sleep and woke up in a different world, or a nightmare. Even so… my world didn’t change because as the song says, “This World is not My Home!” I serve a God, His Name is Jesus, and He doesn’t change with the times. He is time.

Sandwiched in between what the world says is okay and what God says is okay is a group of believers, (or so they profess, and it’s not I that am their judge) who have put their stamp of approval on sin and proclaim that they believe that God is okay with it. Newsbreak… God didn’t make that announcement.

Read verse 29-32 with me today and discover what God says it:

Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,  Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:  Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

God gave the rundown of transgressions and then He said. “Who knowing the judgement of God,” – they knew it was wrong yet still said it was okay. “that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.”  If we read the Word of God we cannot help but understand how serious God is taking the sins of America and yet… we not only partake in the sin, but enjoy it ourselves.

That is the scripture that really caught my eye this morning regarding the people who are “enjoying” telling those who are living in sin that it’s okay, God says they’re fine. No you’re not okay. God never changed His mind. And the Christians who are putting their words in the place of God’s are going to stand before a very upset Savior one day and with the direction of this world it may be soon.

It’s never my intent to offend or upset. And nobody loves loving people any more than I do. I love helping hurting people. But as Christians we do not help hurting people by telling them a lie. God did not say to ridicule, ostracize or abuse anyone in sin. He said to love them and tell them the truth.

The truth is clearly spoken in the Word of God. It’s not up for debate, I don’t care what some liberal preacher tells you, God didn’t change His mind. Read it for yourself. This blog wasn’t written for the sinner, it was written for the saint who’s messing up the sinner. Stop it. Repent from your acceptance of a lie and tell them the truth. Do it with love. Take the rainbow off your Facebook profile and put it back in the book where it is a Covenant that God would never wipe us off the face of the earth again. A covenant for which we should be extremely grateful right now… because we deserve it.