Tag: Shari Johnson

Posted in Life Inspiration, Uncategorized, Word of God

It’s Spiritually Discerning

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I will not say it has been an easy transition to News Publisher. Staying focused on spiritual things is difficult when my focus is on the things of world much of the time. Listening to other news sources, listening to my community, listening to heartaches and struggles, it’s a bit overwhelming at times. 

So, with that being said, as I sat in church yesterday and the Spirit was just pouring the blessings down upon me as I listened to the Word of God being taught and preached, I thought about conversations I’d had with God recently. They were random to say the least. I have an ongoing daily conversation with the Lord that is filled with apologies for my failures, goofy prayers over food like “please Lord, let something in this candy bar be nutritious for my body,” and “God, Lucky Charms has 9 essential vitamins and minerals in it, so surely eating it twice a day and sometimes three for meals isn’t bad, and please don’t let the marshmallows kill me.” This is not my finest hour as a child of God or a writer. But it’s what’s on my heart today. 

I wonder if the Apostle Paul had a Lucky Charms kind of day when he was making tents? I’m doubting it. Listen to the wisdom in his words to the Corinthians: 

1 Corinthians 2:12-14 

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. ¶ Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

The Apostle Paul was God’s News Reporter. He was tasked with the job of listening to the world and discovering their issues, then listening to God for the wisdom of life, and then relaying that message in a manner that could be applied by the people. And that became the Good News that we are gifted today by the Holy Spirit of God through His Bible. 

So the reason I speak about the transition to publisher as not being easy, is because I have a rough time shutting out the world and allowing the Spirit to speak to me. I really don’t understand how the unsaved keep their sanity when I struggle with it as a child of God who has my very own 24 hour a day Counselor, Keeper and Friend.

Freely Given Facts

I promised myself and God that when I began www.Ridgeviewnews.com, I would publish only the truth. If it was opinion I would label it as such and I would stand accountable to God for it all. Paul’s words reminded me that the Spirit that is in me is not of this world, and the things that I have been “freely given,” are not received by those who don’t know Christ. There is a discernment that is accessible to every child of God that when we receive information, the Holy Spirit will alert us with what we need to do with that information. But our conversations with God have to be about more than candy bars and lucky charms. 

Right now I have a very serious issue with a family member in another country. I have a hard time following news about this country and caring what happens to it’s people. And then I hear the Spirit of God say “look at this group of people in that country. They belong to me, and they care.” And that causes me to care. 

I get frustrated with the people in my community because it seems there are many who have their heads stuck in the sand and have no idea of what’s going on around us, and the Spirit reminds me that “Satan is after them, and he has many of them on a line and hook destined for Hell unless a child of God reminds them that they need Christ.” And then God reminds me of the blessed place I’m in that teaches and preaches the gospel and it’s a fact that I am privileged to hear. That wisdom prevents me from falling to the worlds devices. Yes I get side tracked on Lucky Charms and candy bars but the gift that Christ left us of His Holy Spirit is such an amazing valuable possession. It prevents me from falling to the wiles of the Devil that would have me going out into the world unprepared for the wickedness that would destroy the peace in my heart. Another fact that we have as children of God. Peace. And that my friend with the craziness going on in this is worth more than anything this world has to offer.  Satan cannot touch it unless we allow him to. Glory! Thank You Jesus for the Spirit of God that keeps me sane! 

Posted in Christian Service, Church attendance, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Life's Failures, Uncategorized

The Handwriting is on the Wall

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Titus 1:1 KJV
Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;

Acknowledging the Truth. Boy o boy, does that preach in my life right now. Our church is currently in the depth of a Bible Study that has those of us who are there thinking “Wow, why didn’t I see that before?” When I say depth… it’s cutting to the very core of us creating a desire to be and do more for the Lord Jesus. Titus 1:1 is the verse the Pastor has us focusing on for 2022 and it speaks not only to the problems in the world but the problems in the church. But praise God it speaks to the solution!

I have to be very careful with my spiritual high-hatted-ness which can get out of hand very fast. You know… that tendency to be a “self righteous saint in the sanctuary sitting in the seat of servitude.”

I’m Shari the super saint which is actually not even a figure of my imagination. I don’t ever feel that way, but I can think that way when I look at empty church houses and a world so off kilter spiritually. Thinking to myself, “Why cannot even the church see the truth of the times we’re living in?” I expect at any time there to be a hand on wall writing those words once again “MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN.”

Daniel 5:25-28 KJV
[25] And this is the writing that was written, MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN. [26] This is the interpretation of the thing: MENE ; God hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it. [27] TEKEL ; Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting. [28] PERES ; Thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians.

Written in scripture in all caps. In todays theory of texting someone, all caps quite often is a form of yelling. I think it was in Daniel’s day too. Look at God’s message to Belshazzar leading up to the yelling.

Daniel 5:18-24 KJV
[18] O thou king, the most high God gave Nebuchadnezzar thy father a kingdom, and majesty, and glory, and honour: [19] And for the majesty that he gave him, all people, nations, and languages, trembled and feared before him: whom he would he slew; and whom he would he kept alive; and whom he would he set up; and whom he would he put down. [20] But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him: [21] And he was driven from the sons of men; and his heart was made like the beasts, and his dwelling was with the wild asses: they fed him with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven; till he knew that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will. [22] And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knewest all this; [23] But hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven; and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee, and thou, and thy lords, thy wives, and thy concubines, have drunk wine in them; and thou hast praised the gods of silver, and gold, of brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know: and the God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy ways, hast thou not glorified: [24] Then was the part of the hand sent from him; and this writing was written.

He had been born into royalty, gifted a life of exclusivity and goodness and yet found no need for God. Would to God I would see this in my own life when I fail to understand who I am in Christ and what a blessing it is to be born where I am born. Then I go back to Paul’s verse in Titus 1:1 and think of the man Paul who born as Saul, into the royal priesthood of the Jewish Religion, who knew the law above all men and murdered the children of God. Religion is not relationship. Knowing is not necessarily understanding. I know God… I am saved! But I do not always understand Him. Saul knew much, but Paul knew more. Because Paul humbled himself and became a willing vessel of the Lord to be used in a way that 2,000 years later has us in awe of the power of God in the life of one man, who was “just” a man.

God can choose (the elect) to use us in any way He so chooses. According to “our” faith. What kind of faith is that? And do we acknowledge the truth. I think for my self I acknowledge the truth when it’s convenient and not too painful. America is a form of Belshazzar. Our nation is prideful and have forgotten the price our forefathers paid for a nation to be free of religious tyranny.

And so when I take off my pious hat and look at myself I see that God is not in His proper place. The truth of the matter is God should be in every single aspect of my life. Every breath I take should be with the acknowledgment that He gave me that privilege to have it. God is for certain on the throne, but He is also in my heart and He desires to talk to me about everything. Not just church. That is a truth that hit me like a brick this morning at 3:27 a.m.

Posted in Christian, Life Inspiration, salvation, Word of God

Peter’s Zeal, Jabez’ Prayer, Shari’s Opinion

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There is no question that I am a person of opinion. If you don’t believe it, ask my husband, he’ll tell you quickly that I have an opinion and have no problem voicing it. So does he, its one thing we both agree on. We have opinions. The world has opinions. Oh… my … stars… do they have opinions. The issue with the world is, they blur the line between opinion and fact. Even in their own head. But there is nothing of “opinion” in scripture. Man can weigh in on it with what he or she believes it to say, but it’s truth none the less. And there is no private interpretation.

2 Peter 1:20 KJV

Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

Since salvation in 1996 I have taken God’s word for truth. I haven’t always understood it, I have not always taught it correctly, I’m a person subject to error as anyone else is. But I think I’ve always understood that every word that proceedeth out of my mouth is going to be on instant replay in Heaven when I get home and I’m going to have some explainin’ to do if the things I’ve taught and shared with the world don’t align with scripture. I do not want any eternal ramifications for opinion. 

Opinion, I believe, is a matter of pride. Too often people form an opinion (which is fine) and then they form an attitude (which is not). That is pride. Those attitudes generally lead to a stronger stance on what your believe is fact that is not always founded in truth. 

O’ Lord it’s Hard to Be Humble (circa 1980)

1 Peter 5:6

[6] Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

Peter was Jew. He understood the pride of the Nation of Israel as well as he understood the issues with the pride of the individual man. He was zealous! In the book of Luke it says

Luke 6:15 KJV

[15] Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes,

Zelotes means “zealot.” It’s one of my favorite things about Peter was his zealousness for all thing in life. But he and I both have something else in common, our zealousness gets us into trouble. I get so excited about something new that I learn that I don’t always study it out before I go off telling people about it. Big mistake! That’s how doctrines’ get messed up. We have to study to show ourselves approved, rightly dividing the word of God. That of course is a paraphrase from 2 Timothy 2:15. Wrong doctrine doesn’t always come from evil people. I’d venture a guess it seldom starts there. It starts with some who has an opinion but didn’t take the time study it out. 

When Peter told them to humble themselves that God might exalt them, I think he knew that pride was an issue. People love to be puffed up! I love it when people tell me I’ve done well… I don’t handle it well and get embarrassed for fear they’ll think I’m prideful, but if they knew what was going on inside my head they might know how prideful I can be. If I were more brazen I’d say, “Thanks! I thought it was pretty good myself!” But I can’t. Because I know I’ll probably fall flat on my face at the next attempt to do something “great.” 

I can Help, I got two strong arms (Circa 1975)

1 Peter 5 [7] Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 

Casting my cares on Jesus or anyone else is difficult. Again, it’s a pride issue, but I always think I can handle it, and I usually cannot. It’s my opinion that I can handle it. The Lord knows the truth. When Peter told them to cast their cares upon Jesus, he spoke from experience. As a fisherman he had cast his net all night and caught nothing until he heard this in 

John 21:6-7 KJV

[6] And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes. [7] Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher’s coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.

Peter was of the opinion that it was a good idea to hang out naked in the boat. Ummm, bad idea! The Lord showed up and caught him in a compromising position. Boy will that preach! That’s exactly what happens when we get in a big way and think we can handle anything by ourselves. It’s a good way to get caught with your pants down. 

But when the boys in the boat harkened to the Lord and let their net down on the right side, God assuredly blessed. We have to be on the right side of the Lord. It doesn’t matter what we think is right or wrong, the facts come in studying out the issue within the word of God. The more we read, cross reference and study the word of God, the more truth He reveals. And the greater understanding he gives us that we might share that understanding with other people. 

The House of the Rising Sun (1964)

I couldn’t help but think back to a time about 15 years ago. There was a group of us who had diligently gathered at the church every Tuesday morning for prayer at 7 a.m. We did that for years. We were a dedicated group. But one Tuesday morning a fella from the church (left the church shortly thereafter) but this particular morning he stopped by to share some “wisdom he had gotten.” He had been reading the book “The prayer of Jabez.” In a very arrogant manner he began to school us on how we were missing out on the blessing of God because we weren’t living our best life as Jabez had. 

This man seldom darkened the door step of the church. His testimony in the community didn’t come close to backing up his Christian proclamations. He was probably an alcoholic and a foul mouthed man at that. But he thought that his opinion was so worthy of sharing that he could teach dedicated believers how to live better. Needless to say it left a bad taste in my mouth. We were all gracious and nodded our heads in politeness as not to offend this brother who thought he was doing right. He was casting his net on the wrong side of the boat!

Pastor Steven taught on that very book for Wednesday night bible study last night. But it had been on my mind for a while. Pastor taught that Jabez knew where he was in the Lord. It was at a time in Israel’s history when they weren’t right in the Lord. They were fishing on the wrong side of the boat as they so often did, thinking they knew better than God and it had gotten them further and further away. So as Jabez prayed he asked 

1 Chronicles 4:10 KJV

[10] And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.

You can feel the humility in Jabez’ words. He wasn’t speaking in pride or asking God to give him an exclusive blessing for the purpose of wealth and power. He was speaking in favor of his nation. Praying that God would increase their reach. Hello… wouldn’t that be an awesome prayer for us today? 

I’m thankful for these thoughts this morning. And this direction in my life that I should be praying that God expand my reach. Not to build up any earthly kingdom, but to build a heavenly Kingdom through souls that I might reach for Christ. Glory! What an awesome thought. Let it be so….

The song titles had nothing to really do with anything, other than they reminded me of where I came from and praise God, where I’m going. 

Posted in Christian, Christian Service, Evangelism, Life Inspiration

Unapologetic Child of God

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The question arose yesterday morning during our Sunday School Class from teacher Donnie Pitts, “Why did the Jews reject Jesus as the Messiah?” It was a question I hadn’t given deep thought, but I had certainly wondered about that before. But the greater question for me this morning is why does anyone reject Christ today? In a lost world where most everyone is looking for some type of hope, why do they not start with the only source of hope?

I realize that many have not officially been introduced to Christ, either because they choose to avoid the all things Christian, or because the church has failed them, or perhaps they’ve chosen another path entirely that leads them far from any thing involving the truth of Christ. I’m sure there’s plenty of reasons. But there’s really no excuse.  And as I begin to embark on 2022, I find there’s no excuse for me not telling people about Christ. I have multiple platforms and a quite frankly a big mouth. A North Carolina Preacher told me once as I walked off the platform from singing, that I’d “Make a great hog caller.” I took that as the kindest of compliments. He was a jewel of preacher. But am I using my talents to their fullest extent. Of course not. And if you would confess it, I doubt you are either, because none of us do all we can, we do what we want, or what makes us feel comfortable and holy. Nothing past that.

The answer to Donnie’s question came in multiple forms. But for me it boiled down to the fact that Jesus did not fit the mold of who the Jews thought the Messiah would be. He wasn’t fancy, or legalistic, He didn’t hang out at the temple all the time, or with the temple crowd. He was most noted for hanging out with heathens. He didn’t begin His life with earthly pomp and circumstance. Heavenly pomp for sure! But His cheering section on earth was a few ratty shepherds and and some Kings from out of town. The local tribe of politicians were too afraid of losing power to acknowledge a Savior. Are times any different? 

Herod went so far as to killing innocent babies in hopes of getting the right One and stopping an heir to the throne. That tactic has never stopped. Although they know they can’t touch the Lord, they can touch His people. Herod’s act was one of canceling as much as today’s attempt to quiet the Christian faith is by demonetizing and devaluing anything that acknowledge Christ as Lord. Whether that is a church, business or news, the goal is still the same, kill their influence. 

When it came to my new publication, The Ridgeview News, I had to do some serious soul searching about how I was going to publish an unbiased newspaper?   The world would tell me that I can’t. I’ve been told that on multiple jobs, to leave Christ out of it.” But the Lord has pointed me to one word every time the subject comes up. Truth.

Paul told the Corinthians in 2 Corinthians 13:8 ~  “For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.”

The truth will be revealed. Whether it happens today or much later, it will be revealed. So to stand on the side of truth will always be the winning side. I really want to be on the winning side! It is also what everyone will tell you they want. I’ve yet to hear the first person say to me, “Please lie to me. I don’t want to know the truth.” No, we all know that we are far better off in the end when we have the truth, whether or not we like it. So long as I stand on the side of truth, I believe God will honor my publication and the community will grow to trust it, whether or not they believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. 

I have a sweatshirt that I created when the world began getting very biased against Christians, and I love it! It’s the featured image on this post. “Unapologetic Child of God.” That’s who I am. I’m not going to ram my beliefs down anyones throat. But nor will I deny the Lord Jesus or fail to give Him glory.  And if I should fail to give the truth in the matter of the news, then it’s not news it’s opinion. The news is simply “what happened, to who, where and why.” That’s exactly what the word of God is. The truth of what happened, to Who and Why. People can deny it, that doesn’t change it. We can ignore. Still doesn’t change it. 

I’ve never fit the norm for society. If I would have lived in the days of Christ’s earthly ministry, I would have most likely been the rejected of society. The weird woman down the street. For that I’m grateful. Because Jesus didn’t hang out with pretty and fancy people. The lepers, the sick, the sinners… those were Jesus friends. Because it was those people that He brought out of those lifestyles and gave purpose. The religious liked the power they over the people. Jesus was the true power, and they missed it. Don’t miss it. And don’t be apologetic to this world. Let them know Jesus needs no apology!

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith, Family, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Purpose

I’m Telling the Family Secret

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I’m in awe every day that God does not strike a bolt from Heaven and say “Enough is enough Shari, you’re obviously as bright as you’re ever going to be so just come on home with Me.” 

And if you think I’m being dramatic… well you’d be right, that’s who I am, but I’m being very honest. So when He (the Lord) keeps speaking scripture to my soul until it takes root, I’m humbled with the His patience. I’ve been stalled in the books of little John lately. Suggested reading from people, my bible being randomly open to it. I believe those are God events that He uses to take my hand and lead me when I’m stumbling on my own. Some days I absolutely feel like a toddler in the spiritual realm.

So today, on this platform, I make an announcement that’s been a long time in the making, but just a recent decision to “just do it.” It wasn’t until some recent events that it became more of just a passing thought, but had turned into a driven obsession. And so Ridgeview News was born. I plan on picking up the torch that Bob Weaver carried so very well for many years. I don’t say that lightly. Bob Weaver and I butted heads on more than one occasion. But, that’s life and that my friends is water under a bridge and way down around the bend. We’re moving on. 

With an air of transparency I’ll also tell you that my husband David isn’t overly thrilled. That might be putting it lightly. I think his final word on the matter was, “Do what you want, but I don’t want any part of it.” Bob Weaver’s not the only one I’ve butted heads with over the years, David and I have 42 years of not always seeing eye to eye. His concern about this is what anyone with any sense would have. Truth isn’t always a welcome subject. But when the road’s been rough we’ve stayed true to one another and I will tell your flat footed and eye to eye, he is my rock.

The only one who’s almost as excited as I am, or maybe as excited is my daughter Whitney who will be the staff reporter and all things sports and community. Talk about drama! She is David and I put together and on steroids drama! That’s how we love her. My oldest daughter Tiffani, who is RN will be a feature writer when she so chooses and has the time on medical matters or anything else on her heart. 

What we’re most excited about is being the voice of truth, which is needed in every community. Someone has to inform the community of decisions being made on their behalf. It’s not healthy to live in the dark. So we’re picking up this lantern and we’ll be shining the light in every decision making office and position in the community. I’m not looking for dirt. I’m seeking truth. How else can I be the Jesus Chick and the Ridgeview News Publisher without it?

In the book of 3 John, he writes to his friend Gaius, who he loves in the truth…

3 John 1:1-14 KJV

[1] The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. [2] Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. [3] For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. [4] I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

Again and again he heralds his friend for the truth. We all say we want it, but do we? It’s at times very painful.  John went on to tell of his friends faithfulness to not only his friends in the faith, but strangers as well.  Everyone wants someone they can trust, Gaius was that person for many of the people in their town. I doubt it came out of nowhere. I’m sure time and time again he had proven himself trustworthy. He was not only trusted, he was a leader of people in the right direction.

 [5] Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers; [6] Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: [7] Because that for his name’s sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. [8] We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.

Fellow helpers of the truth! Isn’t that an awesome title to give someone one. But not everyone was a fan of John and Gaius. There was jerk named Diotrephes that John called out. He cracked me up when he showed his holy hostility and righteous rage to this fella who thought he was all that and bag of chips and had the right to rid himself of anyone he didn’t care for.

 [9] I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. [10] Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church. 

John said Diotrephes had an attitude of arrogance about him. Does that not describe the vast majority of leadership in America today? How dare we question who they are and the positions they hold. How dare we not? They’re funded by public money, making decision for God’s people in ungodly ways. We need to know when that happens, and we also need to know when the good happens as well. We need that encouragement daily! 

John covered that too!

[11] Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God. [12] Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true. [13] I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee: [14] But I trust I shall shortly see thee, and we shall speak face to face. Peace be to thee. Our friends salute thee. Greet the friends by name.

Over and over John mentions truth. Truth is the only place you’ll find true peace in your life. That my friends is what I’m praying for us all. More truth. More peace. More Joy in 2022.  

Please pray for our family. We’re ready for the adventure, but it will not be a journey worth taking without God’s will and God’s people, my friends, along for the ride. 

Our first issue will “hopefully” be live January 1, 2022.

Posted in Christian, Evangelism, Faith, Family, Life Inspiration

Stuff I have to remember not to forget

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2 Peter 3:1 KJV

[1] This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance:

God and I have conversations almost daily now where I ask Him to remind me of stuff I gotta remember not to forget. And so it is with the aging process. I removed a pair of my youngest grandson’s jeans from the dryer (I first typed trousers and then realized how old I sounded)… anyway… Parker had worn them to my house the other day, and either left naked or changed into something else he left here, I’m not sure, but the point of this story is, I noted when he wore them they needed hemmed. And so when I folded them, I asked God to remind me when I got home from work, to hem those jeans. 

That same mindset was in Peter’s thoughts as he wrote the final chapter of his second epistle. Not about laundry, but he reminds us not to forget. Not to forget that this earth for which tree hugging liberals are so concerned about is one day going to be a pile of ash. And the souls within the babies that are killed every day through abortion live forever, as well as the souls of every man. But they neglect that wisdom and choose rather to focus on the temporal. Another fact which Peter noted that the Apostle Paul noted, when he closed out this epistle with these words:

 2 Peter 3:15-18 KJV

[15] And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; [16] As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. [17] Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. [18] But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

My instability of mind and failures to remember can be attributed to aging and a failure to take care of myself physically. I’m not unlearned or unstable, I’m unfocused. I do wrestle with ADD.  But Peter mentions that there are things that even though it may be hard to understand, we can read and study the word of God to keep ourselves aware of future events through the prophecy of the Bible. Just as God will no doubt remind me to hem Parker’s pants, He reminds me daily of His plans for this world so that I will not be lead astray by the wickedness of this world and the liberal media outlets that fill our heads with their agendas through multiple means. The world loves to fill our minds with liberal garbage of the extreme. They believe that trees matter more than babies. That’s not oversimplification, that’s truth. They believe that puppies and kitties have more rights than children. I love puppies and kitties, I have a house full. But if the cat runs out in the road, and a grand baby runs out in the road, I can tell you which one I’m going to pull to safety first. It’s not the critter. I love them, but they are not as valuable as a child. The same holds true with this world, it’s not as valuable as those who God created to dwell on it and use the earths resources to survive. 

This seems like something I shouldn’t think I need to remind us of. But it’s all about worldly perception and perspective. 

Perception – the ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses. 

Perspective – the true understanding of the relative importance of things;

Both are equally important, becoming aware, and understanding the truth of what we’ve become aware of. 

As I start my day today, I pray that I am aware and will have spiritual understanding of what matters most to God in every circumstance.  Whether or not Parker’s pants get hemmed is not nearly as important in the scheme of things as whether or not Parker is raised to know Christ.

Posted in Christian, Eternity, Faith, Family, Forgiveness, Grace, Life Inspiration

What to Remember When Life is Harsh

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on What to Remember When Life is Harsh

Praise God! I’ve never professed to be perfect, else there would be so many disappointed people in my life. Mainly family, who know me all too well, but friends for sure, and general acquaintances would find me sad too. I feel I say “I’m struggling” too often, but there is no other word that would describe my week. Physically, emotionally and spiritually I’ve had the worst week ever. I topped it off by ignoring God. That really made it better, right? This is a part of the imperfections that is within me. If life hands me a bad day, or in this case a bad week, I have a tendency to give my mind leniency to wander down thoughtless pathways such as internet stories and videos that take me into someone else’s world and out of my own. It’s a coping mechanism that fails miserably and yet I try it every time. Every time. It’s as if ignoring God will allow more misery to come, which I deserve, right? That’s what Satan says. And we know he has our best interest at heart. Yes, I’m that dumb, and it’s why Eve has nothing on me in the garden. I would have taken that fruit without so much as a question. 

So today, the final day of the work week, I decide that I need to put on my lipstick and pull myself together and look for a way of dealing with nasty, hurtful, people. Merry Christmas to me. 

So here’s my text:

1 Corinthians 16:19-24 KJV

[19] The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. [20] All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with an holy kiss. [21] The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand. [22] If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha. [23] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. [24] My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.

The closing of the book of 1 Corinthians from our friend, the Apostle Paul. A man of God who more than understood being hurt. He always brings my own petty issues into perspective. although this weeks struggles weren’t all petty. Some were pretty intense. But not “Paul” intense. No one was threatening to kill me. I didn’t have to flee for my life. But I felt hatred, and that my friend is an awful, awful feeling. Especially when it comes from a person who calls them self a child of God. I mention that only so you’ll know a partial context of my week. Partial because there was more. I hate being vague, and perhaps the story can be told some day, but for now it’s too fresh, and involves other people. But take my word, it’s been a no good, very bad, week. 

So the question for myself this morning is, “How do we deal with hateful, hurtful people?”

Remember the Gift of True Friendship

At the end of Paul’s letter to the Corinthians he salutes the readers. A gesture of gratitude and respect to the churches of Asia. I have wonderful friends in Asia. That was my launching point for getting away from these feelings of hurt that I feel today. The very fact that God has given me friends all over the world. Literally! I have been to churches in Asia. I could have said to them as Apostle Paul did, to the churches of Asia, I salute you. Not only do I have friends in Asia, I friends in America and other countries too! Not fake friends, but genuine friends that if I call upon them they would do all they could do to help me out. Btu I’m not apt to call on them, because I figure everyone has issues. They don’t need mine. And so I spend a week like this one, where I feel alone, angry and hurt, without God by my side, although He is, but I pretended He wasn’t so I could wallow in self pity. But this morning I am reminded once again of the faithfulness of God and His people. 

Remember the Gift of Holy Kisses

My daughter Whitney is “elfing” houses this week with her cheerleading squad. For a fee they’re hiding elves in the yards of people with children for them to locate with clues and they not only receive the elf dolls, they receive a bag of elf kisses too. It’s such a cute concept, but it’s nothing compared to the holy kiss of a saint. I know it’s hard to believe, but they’re sweeter than chocolate!

A holy kiss is much more than, just a peck on the cheek. John Gil described it as this:

A holy kiss is a Christian salutation wishing all temporal, spiritual, and eternal happiness, to one another; and which, as it should be mutual, should be also hearty and sincere, and this is meant by the “holy kiss”; the allusion is to a common custom in most nations, used by friends at meeting or parting, to kiss each other, in token of their hearty love, and sincere affection and friendship for each other; and is called “holy”, to distinguish it from an unchaste and lascivious one; and from an hypocritical and deceitful one, such an one as Joab gave to Amasa, when, inquiring of his health, he took him by the beard to kiss him, and stabbed him under the fifth rib, 2 Samuel 20:9; and as Judas, who cried, hail master, to Christ, and kissed him, and betrayed him into the hands of his enemies, Matthew 26:49.

Covid has pretty much scared people away from “holy kisses” but there are still a few who trust in a providential God to take care of the matter. I pretty much go with the flow of the person I’m greeting. If they want a holy fist bump, I’m okay with that too. But I primarily want and appreciate the sincerity of the friends who I know to be true. That is sweeter than chocolate! It’s sweet because I am painfully aware of the fact that it is far more rare than reality that there are true and faithful friends even at the church house. So this morning I am focusing on the gratitude I have for the wonderful gift of real “holy kissable” people.

Remember Jesus is Coming Soon!

There’s a phrase in this scripture that I always forget what it means and I have to look it up. In verse 22 it says:

[22] If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.

Anathema meaning “accursed”

Maranatha meaning “O Lord come.”

So it basically says “if there’s anyone who doesn’t love the Lord Jesus Christ let him be accursed when the Lord comes. 

There’s a final judgment that I don’t wish on my worst enemy. To be accursed is to be eternally separated from God. When I hear people curse and tell people to go to hell, I wonder how many dare to realize that that is a real place. I look at my husband, children and grandchildren, and I realize that the love I have for them is the same love  an unsaved person has for their family. The only difference being, I have the hope of eternity with my family and they do not. I can’t imagine, nor do I want imagine my family being in Hell. But that’s what happens to those who don’t love Christ. The thought is gut wrenching. 

At the end of a bad week, I’m focusing today on what will be the beginning of eternity when Jesus comes. When there will be no heart ache or sadness or wickedness like we face today. If you know and love Jesus, give Him glory! If you don’t, please message me on social media or through the contact information on this blog. I need to tell you why I have the power within me to go on after a week like this. Because even when people are bad, God is sooooooooo good. 

Posted in Christian Service, Christmas, Eternity, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Uncategorized

The Greatest of All Influencer’s

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Greatest of All Influencer’s
Calhoun County Community Center Tree Lighting

If you were anywhere close Calhoun County, West Virginia this week, you witnessed multiple Christmas miracles all because one woman ` had a crazy idea and the passion to deliver. I have lived in Calhoun County since 1970, I’ve seen it politically controlled until it was controlled almost out of existence. Until 2021. When one woman came back to town after a long journey and made sparks fly with her influence. 

So that’s what has brought me to this thought this morning, the greatest of all Influencers. Of course I speak of Jesus Christ. But He used commoners like Crystal Laughlin Mersh to impact the world. Not just a community.

Crystal Mersh announcing to ‘ the children the gifts they’re about to receive!
300 Bicycles and Helmets donated by Crystal

The only place the word “influence” is found in scripture is one of my favorite verses. From the book of Job it reads Job 38:[31] Canst thou bind the sweet influences of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion?

Pleiades, as I understand it is a constellation of  seven stars which which rise in the spring ushering in the pleasantnesses of the season, as the word may be rendered, it cannot be restrained or hindered from taking place in the proper course of the year. It is also said that it may, in a spiritual sense relate to the effects and power of grace, the influences of which are irresistible, and cause a springtime in the souls of men, where it was before winter, a state of darkness, deadness, coldness, hardness, and unfruitfulness, but now the reverse. What an awesome thought!

God has set that influence into action and nothing can prevent it so long as HE intends it to be. I believe He does the same thing with men. As much as Satan would love to destroy the influence of the gospel through the voices of men and women who have been called out to proclaim it. He can’t.  Just like the season of spring comes around in God’s timing so does the opportunities for the salvation of men.

Today, “influencer” is a buzz word and a powerful position. If you are dubbed as a social media influencer, suddenly you are of great value to the marketing community. They want you to promote their products because you influence what people think about what they need. To become a spiritual influencer is much the same. People have to want what you have. In the days of the spiritual powers of the apostles, they were great influencers. They had the power to heal, to command evil spirits and demonic forces to come out of people. Old Testament prophets could call fire down from Heaven and on God approved occasions, speak people dead. That’s not a power I should have. Nor likely anyone else. And as a matter of truth, those powers are not present in the church today. Even though there are people who tell you they have those powers. Don’t send them $23.99, it won’t work. But what will work is trusting God for the best in all matters. Even when, from this side of Heaven, it doesn’t look good. 

I’ve been watching the Old Calhoun County High School sit dormant and falling apart for years. It made me sad because it was such an awesome old building. But I didn’t have the power, or really the desire to do anything with it. But Crystal did. She began by tearing down parts of the building that couldn’t be restored. Another spiritual lesson for us. There always some things in our lives that God doesn’t want there. It’s like wine bottles mentioned in Luke.

Luke 5:37-38 KJV

[37] And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. [38] But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved.

When God makes a soul brand new, which is what He does when He saves us, it’s always way better than the original. And when people see it, that person becomes an influencer. My buddy and influencer Roger Carter is proof positive. All of the friends he went to high school with back in the 80’s knew Roger as a kid in all kinds of trouble. But when they see him now, his life is brand new. He’s got a whole new outlook on the world, he has what people want. Hope! That’s what it is about Christian people that makes the world take note. 

No body was giving the old high school any notice until Chrystal, tore down the bad parts of the building and began to restore the good. When Christ saves a soul. All the heart ache and bad times in a persons life are replaced by a new out look. It’s not that there still isn’t some parts and pieces still in there that can cause pain. But now that person has purpose.

What I learned this weekend is what my purpose is not. It’s not selling crafts. I always do lousy at these shows. It’s promoting and accentuating the positive. That’s what I do best. God created me as a marketer. Not to sell in a market. It goes to show that life isn’t all roses and sunshine. But its a learning and growing experience that each one of us has to go through until God takes us a home. And then when we get there, He will have prepared us for a new career. I fully believe that! And that excites me because I know it will be everything I love to do down here. But the only way to get there is to be His child. To be saved. And the only way to be saved is to accept that Jesus alone is your ticket to Heaven. He died for you on the cross, to the pay the price for your sins and if you believe that, it creates a relationship with Him that is as real a friendship as anything you’ve experienced down here. 

I hope and pray you know Him today. And I hope and pray if you don’t you will send me a message and let me tell you how to have that relationship and grow that relationship until you, just like the Old Highschool will be bursting at the seams with new life. 

God bless you! And have a great week. Please share this post, and share Jesus with someone today. 

Posted in Christian, Christian Service, Faith, Family, Life Inspiration

Folks like us in the Church

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Folks like us in the Church
Jim Bush, Servant, Friend of God, Maker of Laughter

Since 2019 I have watched the decline of the church both locally and nationally and each Sunday I ask myself “why?” What happened to the people that called themselves friends of God  who now are no shows to His house causing the gospel of Jesus Christ to look as if it had no effect on their lives and was not worthy of their effort. That thought makes me physically ill. But it’s how I feel as I too struggle spiritually at times because I allow the world to consume my mind and my time. Like, every day to some extent.

I lost a good friend yesterday from our church who was so faithful. Before his illness he and I chided every Sunday over various things, and his most favorite thing in the world was to find mistakes in the bulletin. It made him gleefully happy! I would occasionally hand him a blank one so that he would have a mistake free bulletin, which was probably the only way he was going to get one from me. The bulletin is something I’ve done for greater than 20 years. Someone once ask me why I didn’t “let” someone else do the bulletin and offer them a chance to serve. Well, number one, nobody has ever expressed an interest and I won’t hold my breath til they do because it takes weekly dedication. And few people want the commitment of being relied upon in such a way. Jim, my friend who passed away, waited every Sunday morning to search that bulletin for mistakes like that was his job. I wouldn’t mind if someone else stepped in on his behalf. Because that too took dedication to the house of the Lord. I could always count on his wit and his joy and that meant as much as if he’d been their helping me to prepare it. I knew he appreciated my work.

The Old Folks

I now consider myself to be an elder, not in title but in age in the church. I love when the kids have an expectation of me to know something scripturally or show respect to me through their actions and words. The Apostle John wrote to Gail’s in 3 John as an elder who loved and respected his co laborer in Christ Jesus.  

3 John 1:1-8 KJV

[1] The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. 

Obviously Gaius was someone that everyone loved. No doubt a wonderful servant of God who could be depended upon and who John loved in the truth. The truth of God’s word and the study and sharing of it. John lived through the gospels. He wrote one of the gospels! What a privilege Gaius would have had to call him friend. I feel much the same way about the people who have stuck it out through the pandemic. Faithful servants of God who have never wavered.  At every given opportunity they’ve been in their place in the church serving and gratefully doing so. Excited to learn more about God and looking for openings to serve. They are not abundant but I’m so grateful they still exist. 

The Busy Folks

[2] Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. [3] For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. [4] I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

Gaius was a doer of the word. I pray that would be said of me. It was certainly said of Jim. There wasn’t a church event that Jim wasn’t in the thick of doing his part. He walked in the truth. The church wasn’t just a place he went to fulfill his spiritual obligations, it was where he went because he was apart of that family and when he got saved, he was saved to serve, not sit.  I also had the privilege of witnessing his salvation. He literally wrestled at the altar and when he stood up his hair was going every direction! we laughed about that for a long time and so did he. There is joy in serving the Lord, and Jim was proof. 

The Faithful Folks

 [5] Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers; [6] Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: [7] Because that for his name’s sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. [8] We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.

Fellow helpers. That is my friends of Victory Baptist Church. Since the Corona there’s not as many of us, but we are blessed to still be above the norm. They are along for journey and not they’re not carpet baggers. You know, the people who show up for what they can gain from a group and leave when they’ve gotten enough. 

When would you ever get “enough” of God. 

I never have enough. I want to be in His presence all day every day. And when I’m not, I know it’s because I’ve shut him out. I’m not casting stones at those who have failed to stay faithful. I genuinely miss them.  

I had to grin when I read the next verses where John called a fellow out for not being who he should have been. 

3 John 1:9-10 KJV

[9] I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. [10] Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.

John can to that. He’s the great Apostle John after all. I’ll call no one out because in truth I’m no better than anyone else, I just show up in spite of my failures. Diotrephes loved to be considered for all his greatness. I just want to be considered a friend of every single person in the congregation of the Lord. If you’re out of church. Please know that you are missed. If you’re attending some where else, God bless ya! If you’re not, please come back and celebrate the Lord with us. Amen!

Posted in Christian, Church attendance, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Purpose, Word of God

The Truth About Titles

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Truth About Titles

Perhaps it’s a known fact about me, or perhaps it’s little known, but truth none the less, I like titles. I like being acknowledged as a person of purpose. I’ve always wondered about the difference between purpose and passion. Not of stature, because that to me seems arrogant, but I like the fact that in any given organization I have purpose and evident works with outcomes. It is the fabric of who I am. Who God created me to be. So in the study of Paul’s writings, I found it interesting that Thessalonians is the only one that Paul didn’t acknowledge his title of Apostle, or status as servant or prisoner of Christ. He simply listed his name with the others who were with him as he wrote to the church in Thessalonica. 

One hundred years ago or less, I worked for the local newspaper in town, the Calhoun Chronicle. It’s a small weekly paper with a circulation of less than 3,000 where I was Advertising Manager. It was my first ever job with an official title and it was one of my fav’s! It was there that I found a passion for publicity that would serve me well throughout the years. The Editor at the time was Merrill Pollack. A retired editor for the New York Times, and to say he was quite the character wouldn’t do him justice! He was also the first boss who treated me as an equal and brought joy into our lives every day with his story telling ability and his vast experience in the media. 

Depending upon the tasks of the day, Merrill would retitle us accordingly. If we were going shopping, we were fashion editors, if we were going out to lunch we were food editors, he was so much fun to work with. He shared his vast amount of knowledge with us without any sense of arrogance, but rather exuberance in handing it down to the next generation.  

While I’m not sure Paul would have been as crazy as Merrill, I imagine him to have been a zealot and more to share his vast amount of knowledge with others. As Saul he had allowed religious authority to consume him; but as Paul he was just as humbled as he was proud in his previous position. But never lacking confidence! Would to God I was such a one. I lack confidence every day, which may be why titles are important. I guess I’m self diagnosing my psyche. 

The first chapter of 1 Thessalonians is packed so full! The Bible never ceases to amaze me how God can use just a few words to express so many important truths. 

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 KJV

[1] Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. [2] We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; [3] Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father; [4] Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God. 

The lack of a title came with a few concepts from the commentary’s but no real explanation. Just something to take note of. Perhaps it was a either because he was well known by this church, having been lately with them; or lest these young converts should be offended and stumble at any pompous title, which they might imagine carried an appearance of arrogance and pride; or because there were as yet no false apostles among them, who had insinuated anything to the disadvantage of Paul, as in other places, which obliged him to assert his character and magnify his office. We won’t know until we get to Heaven and ask him ourselves, if it ever comes up. 

Paul then moves on to the matter at hand that was all important to him, the Lord Jesus Christ. That is his purpose and he gives great thanks that it is their purpose as well. They are laboring in love, and patience of hope in the eyes of God, showing evidence of God’s purpose for having made them of the elect. That too is my focus this morning as I prepare my heart for church. 

I have carried the title “Sunday School Teacher,” proudly for 20 years. But over the past few weeks I stepped out of that position and back into the position of student of the word in the adult class. I really, really struggled with that decision. Until yesterday when I realized the great level of peace I had and excitement for being in a class of my own. There is a time to teach, and a time to listen, and this is my time.  I pray that you have that place of learning. It’s important in these troubled times to have a good understanding of the word and what’s going on around us. How does it effect us, and some things that shouldn’t effect us.  

I pray today finds you in the Lord’s house, hearing His word and having it stir your soul. Grace and peace to you… from the Lord and Shari, His servant. A title I carry proudly.