Tag: Shari Johnson

Posted in Bible Journaling, Praise, Purpose, Word of God, worship

Judas and the Proverbial Straw

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Judas and the Proverbial Straw

The story of Judas is one of the most, if not the most tragic of stories in the Bible. A man who was given the opportunity to walk with God, as had not been done since Adam and Eve. He, and others of that day, witnessed miracles first hand. And yet the Bible says we are more blessed:

John 20:29 KJVS

[29] Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.

I’m not sure of what it was that caused Judas to betray God, but I know the final straw that broke the proverbial camel’s back: Greed.

Matthew 26:6-16 KJVS

[6] Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, [7] There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat. [8] But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste? [9] For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor. [10] When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me. [11] For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always. [12] For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. [13] Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her. [14] Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, [15] And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. [16] And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.

As we’re going into the Christmas holiday, I have a difficult time coping with myself. I feel my o inner brat rising to the surface. The one who loves stuff! Stuff for me, stuff for my hubs, kids and grandkids. Decorating stuff, etc., etc., etc. I love all things Christmas. This morning on the 20th day of November, a week before Thanksgiving, I’m sitting in my bedroom with a small decorated tree, snowflakes on my curtains and a few gifts ready to wrap. And then there is the world outside my snowflake adorned windows that has people starving, and I want to keep my life in prospective and focus of God’s design and purpose. That is why the story of the Alabaster box caught my attention this morning. 

When Judas seen the woman break the Alabaster box, he, as well as the other disciples were shocked. That box of ointment was the equivalency of a years salary. I’ve read that it could be valued today from 20,000 to 50,000 dollars. There is no doubt in my mind that it garnered some attention. It would in our world today! But for Judas it was more than just shock and awe. It was greed and gall. He didn’t even want the money for the ministry, he wanted it for himself. And at that point he traded hope for the almighty dollar. 

Greed comes in many forms and degrees today. It does more division than an 8th grade math class. It divides homes, churches and businesses now using tools like this software to make fake pay stubs. And takes a terrible tole on the spirit of man. One might wonder how the woman with the alabaster box over came it. 

She overcame it by owning it. 

She Owned the Box

She literally owned the box of spikenard ointment. If anyone had known they’d have probably knocked her in the head and took it. But it obviously wasn’t something she flaunted. She would have kept it close. I’m sure there was a sense of security in having something so valuable. Until she discovered the Lord. That’s when

She Owned the Bad

She knew the life she had lead had been what gave her the ability to have something so valuable. But having met God she realized that what He offered was far more valuable than the box and it’s contents. It meant she could own up to what she had done, and then live as if it had never happened. Glory to God, doesn’t forgiveness feel wonderful. 

She Owned the Blessing

Acts 20:35 KJVS

[35] I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

If Judas had truly intended to give the money to those who needed it, she might not have broken the box and poured out it’s content. Perhaps they would have used the money from the sale of the spikenard. But God sees through the greed of man. He knows the intents of the heart without causing us to prove it to the rest of the world. And so that day the spikenard poured upon the Lord and the aroma would have been amazing! Wafting all the way to Heaven. Just as does the gift that are now passed on the Lord with a right heart. 

What are you and I “owning” today. It’s the season of giving; are we giving away that which we own. And are we owning that which we fail at? I’ve got my share of owning up to do. We have to be very careful about the power of greed and all other evil spirits. Judas kept tempting himself until greed took hold and he missed out on an eternity of bliss for a few days of wealth. God helps us not to lose sight of the season. Let us have the heart of Mary. 

Posted in Christian Service, Church attendance, Church Unity

What to Deny and What to Desire

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on What to Deny and What to Desire

We live in a society that has begun to accept hypocrisy as the social norm. Whether it’s in the secular world, the government or the church, hypocrisy is just a fact of life and few, if any, are held to a an accountability. If anyone understands the damage of hypocrisy, it was the Apostle Peter. In Matthew 26:31-35 we have a conversation between Christ and His disciples at which time Peter proclaims his loyalty to the Savior and the fact that he will never deny Him. He’s feeling very confident in his role as disciple of Christ, as do the rest of the disciples!

Matthew 26:31-35 KJVS

[31] Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. [32] But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. [33] Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.

Who hasn’t had days of confidence? I certainly have. I’ve also had days of utter failure as Peter was foretold to have by Christ in the scripture that follows:

 [34] Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. [35] Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.

It’s irony for me that Jesus used a chicken as a reminder of Peter’s failure. It was however a boy chicken (aka rooster) and I’m the Jesus Chick. So there’s that. But none the less, there’s no excuse for hypocrisy. Is it forgiven? Of course! All sins are under the blood of Christ for a child of God. But we still have to stand on the side of Christ and His Holiness as being the standard for what’s expected, even though human nature causes us all to fall short. 

So in light of that, I’m looking at our current world and the hypocrisy explosion and wondering where the church is?

1 Peter 2:1-4 KJV

[1] Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, [2] As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: [3] If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. [4] To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,

Just this morning I heard a conservative news agency reporting on the closely followed Senate race in Georgia. The were reporting on the hypocrisy of one of the Senate candidates, Raphael Gamaliel Warnock, who is the pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. A pastor, great right? No. Not at all. In addition to being a pastor he’s pro abortion, Marxist and has made politics the topic of conversation in his church for the purpose of turning our nation against itself, not the salvation of souls. I’m glad there are news agencies that are willing to call hypocrisy out. But what about the local churches? 

I don’t want any church body focusing on politics. But when the Bible speaks of the church, it doesn’t speak of a building full of people. It speaks of the body of Christ which includes all who accept Jesus as Lord and the only way to Heaven. If you’re one, this message from Peter, with commentary by me, is for you! 

Lay it Aside! 

Malice – Intention to do evil.

Guile – Underhandedness, deception, scheming. 

Hypocrisy – proclaiming moral standards but failing to have behavior conforming to it. 

Envy – resentful longing aroused by someone else’s possessions.

Evil Speaking – profoundly immoral talk

Welcome to the vocabulary list of 2020.

We have a self proclaimed President Elect (Biden) and his son who have been involved with possible treason, and yet we’re not even looking at his malice. We have an election with known fraud, and yet the winning party is angry that there are people upset with their conspiracy and guile. Elected officials are mandating us to mask up (even though 70% of the people who contracted Covid-19 were mask wearers), they’re dictating how many people we can have in our home, controlling where and when we can go (especially church) and then going against those very orders themselves with the justification that their title and position allows it in great hypocrisy.  The list of envying and evil speaking people is too great to list. 

Peter said to lay it aside. It is the churches responsibility to step around this tribe of ne’er do wells and move forward in the name of the Lord. And when His name is attached to us, so is the expectation of His moral compass, not ours. Our compass is too apt to go off course. There is no justification of any of the aforementioned things. Regardless of what box you checked on your ballot, or what church you go to. We will all stand before God giving account to what we’ve done in His name.

Moving forward isn’t just going on with our lives and pretending it doesn’t affect us. It has affected us! We’re not going to church! Well… not all of us. 

Eat it Up!

Peter tells us to desire the word of God like babies desire milk that we may grow. If a baby is not being fed, they’re screaming their head off. The church has just sat back and shut their mouths, saying nothing. Never mind that the statistics prove the risk is low. I’m not saying don’t use common sense and avoid sharing the virus, but all of that can be done without closing our schools and churches. 

Why will we not accept the word of God as fact, but will accept anything the state says as rule of law? When it’s not law. Laws take a congressional decision. To my knowledge, none of these “mandates” have been made by congress, but rather by governors and other leaders that have suddenly turned into envying and evil speaking dictators who envy a President who’s not. 

I know, I’m showing my red colors in the political realm. I make no apologies. Because the blue people don’t believe in apologies. According to them they do no wrong. 

Know Your Value

The world did it then, and they’re doing it today… rejecting Christ as Lord. Both the political and the religious denied who He was. But that changed nothing!  And as children of God we need to understand our value. I was so tickled last night in the teen class at Victory Baptist Church as the kids told me that they were excited that they would be featured in the history books of the future. What a great attitude! It’s the same type attitude that Peter ended up having after he had a “come to Jesus” moment in his life. He was no longer living in fear as he was the night that Christ was arrested. He himself was arrested many times, and yet in his ministry he healed people, he encouraged people and he led thousands to Christ! He was also martyred, hung upside down on a Cross. But he’s now with God forever and he assuredly is in the history books!

I’m glad the teens know how precious they are in God’s sight and how important they are to the story. Do you?

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith, Heaven, Life's Failures

A little encouragement for other humans

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on A little encouragement for other humans

I wonder daily at what point God will tell Gabriel, “Gabe, That guy just got on my last nerve, go get your horn.” I think like that because I’m human, God quite obviously doesn’t think like or there is no way we’d have made it through the 2020 election. Praise God for grace and mercy! But surely it can’t be long. Again…. I’m human. It could be another 1000 years. But I’m doubting it. 

Today I want to be like my brother in Christ, Apostle Paul. I want to encourage the body of Christ to live bold and be loud for the cause! It’s our time. In Philippians 1, Paul is writing from Prison, and he longs to hear some news about what’s happening in the church. So do I! I love hearing the stories of souls being saved, of the Spirit riding high in a service, of an awesome job by a Preacher. Those stories stir the soul of a child of God and let us know that this is a worthy effort!  Not that we don’t always think it’s a worthy effort, but sometimes life get’s discouraging when we see the opposition. 

Let me Hear!

Philippians 1:27-30 KJVS

[27] Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; 

Paul wanted to hear the good news of the good news. He wanted to know that the church was continuing on and working together in one Spirit. He knew there would be opposition against them, after all, he was writing from jail. Many of them would share the same fate for their boldness. While I’m not in literal jail, sometimes I feel like I’m in spiritual jail. There is certainly a threat of Facebook jail, but that pales in comparison to the jails of a biblical sort. And yet here we are in a time with the world doesn’t know it needs our message, and our sources of spreading it are getting harder to deal with because they’re limiting our reach. While Paul fought a spiritual war with soldiers, we’re fighting a spiritual war with cyber thugs, who can turn into real thugs. It’s why I long to hear the stories of success in your churches. 

If you’re so inclined message them to me! I’d love to share in the experience. Tell me the good news of your church.

Never Fear!

[28] And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. [29] For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; [30] Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.

Paul was proud of the fact that they were bold and fearless in their work for Christ. I’m proud of you! I read your social media posts, I listen to online sermons, I see the work of folks like my friend Dewey Moede of www.FGGAM.org and folks like Glenn Beck on  BlazeTV getting the news out from a biblical worldview. We need to share those resources! Can you imagine if Paul had had those?! During this month of gratitude we need to be grateful for the gifts we’ve been given to share the gospel and encourage one another as often as we can.

Heavens Near!

I certainly don’t have a projected date, but I have a gut feeling. We are in the same conflict that Paul was in. We face the same threats. Our religious freedom is very much under attack. It’s why the election was so darn crooked. Share your faith while you still can! When it gets to the point where we cannot, that’s when Gabe’s gonna blow that horn. But until then, Preach on child of God! Get a handful of gospel tracts and spread the good news. Find a good sermon and share it online, call a saint of God who’s stuck inside and encourage them with a good word. Nothing will go unnoticed by God. 

Posted in Christian Service

These are the days of our lives

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on These are the days of our lives

As the world turns, these are the days of our lives. That’s what was running through my head this morning. I can remember sitting in the floor playing with toys in our mobile home in Duck Creek, West Virginia as a youngin’ of the age of 5 or 6, and hearing that show open up and watching my Mother fold the laundry as she watched. It was probably the only frivolous thing I ever watched my Mother do. It’s kind of how I feel now when I watch the news post election. What’s the point right? 

But the other day when I had the epiphany that I was too world focused and not Heaven focused, my news watching became more of an “as the world turns” experience. I began to watch and listen as one that was watching a plot play out on a soap. With the espionage, theft and threatenings it could no doubt be a crime drama as well. The primary characters of this day and nighttime drama are oblivious to the roles they’re playing to usher us into eternity. These really are the days of our lives! 

I’m always clear to say that I’m not a Bible Scholar, but I have the Holy Spirit within me Who can and does instruct me in the word of God, and I have a wealth of information at my fingertips that I must be careful with accessing because contrary to popular belief, everything on the internet is not true! I know, Shocker! Right?

Bible prophecy from the book of Daniel says that in the last days there will be four powerful kings rise up in the world. 

Daniel 7:17 KJVS

These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth.

According to John Hagee in his book “Earth’s Last Empire,” those four kings will be:

The king of the North, Russia

The king of the South is Egypt and Arab Islamic forces

The king of the East is China

The king of the West is America and the United Kingdom

Those four kings are going to have one primary purpose on their agendas, the attack and demise of Israel. Which won’t happen, but they think it will. They also want to become global dictators taking our civil liberties. They’ve been working on that and have been pretty successful.  All of this will because they desire to control Jerusalem and prepare for the false Messiah. I love Bible prophecy, especially since I’m on the winning side! But it doesn’t stop me from being concerned for those who are not on the winning side, I’m very scared for them when I watch the news and see scripture playing out, just as God said it would. 

Right now across the world Jews are being targeted and Anti-Semitism is very much a thing in the United States. If you read the book of Revelation you witness it as John pulls back a curtain 2000 years ago and looks into our days. How weird is that thought?  While I don’t profess to understand all the prophecy of that book, I know enough to be dangerous. The God of all the Universe has promised to take care of us throughout eternity in a land where evil has been defeated. Our Savior is beside His Father in Heaven and they will be victorious! But in the mean time we are here. I long for the innocence of my youth in my Ozzie and Harriet world. But we must go forward. 

So in looking at those kings listed above we see the actors one by one that need our attention in the matter of prayer. If Jesus tarries His coming, these players in the days of our lives are going to have their focus set on destroying our nation and they’re not going to have to set one foot on American soil to do it. They’ve got understudies all across our nation and most of them in high government positions. So as children of God, what can we do?

We can certainly pray, and don’t take that lightly! It’s powerful. Daniel prayed three times a day and even under the attack of 🦁 lions, he was unharmed. The three Hebrew boys went into the fire believing their God would deliver and He did! God has broken jail bars and broken chains on a crazy man in cemetery. Don’t ever under estimate in the power of our Lord. I personally don’t think He’s done working through us, else He’d have already called us home. Maybe He’s just waiting for His children to stand up in faith when the attacks come.

I’ll continue to watch the days of our lives play out on Blaze TV and continue to read the word of God, because I don’t want to be caught off guard, and I love being in the know. I hope you feel encouraged today, even though the news is not always good. But our God is always good!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Uncategorized

God’s will is easy…’til it’s not

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on God’s will is easy…’til it’s not

If I ask you “is anything too hard for God?” There would no doubt be a resounding yes!!!! Provided you are a child of God. But what if I ask you “Is anything too hard for God to do through you?” That certainly changes the context of the question and if you’re like me would result in possibly silence. I certainly believe that God can do anything, but if you throw me into the mix, that might even mess up God’s plan. 

Praying God’s “will be done” is easy, until it comes to letting it play through; and then sometimes it’s not easy at all. It can come with some very serious costs to us on this side of eternity. I think often about following God’s will. Am I in it, did I mess it up sometimes by allowing my will to overpower what He wanted? After all God allows free will for us. 

There are certain interferences in the will of God. 

Pride is an Interference in the will of God

I detest prideful, arrogant people. Myself included. Pride can yield it’s ugly head in a multitude of ways. When God lays something on our hearts and we refuse, that’s pride. We’re allowing our self will to tell God we’re going another way. Imagine if from day one of life, we only went God’s way. Our spiritual success would be such that even if we were absolutely broken we’d be experiencing such a peace in life, we’d not care about the physical conditions we were in. Like Job, we’d know it is well with our soul. Most of the angst in the life of a child of God who’s trying to live for God is in our failures and lack of faith. And many of those failures are prideful failures. Our way, over God’s way.

Doubt always has a way of creeping in. At least in my life. Even if I’m “pretty sure” I’m in God’s will. I’ve recently doubted so many of my life’s choices. I do not always see the fruits of my labor and sometimes my labor seems downright scant. I always feel I could have done more. If it’s not pride getting in my way it’s another PR word. 

Preparedness is an interference in the will of God

Am I truly prepared for the day and what I’m going to face. If a question pops up or someone needs advice, am I spiritually prepared to fulfill the will of God to lead that person or answer that question? Good question. It’s another way doubt enters in and it’s because I’m not always studied up and prepared for the day. I allow “things,” even sometimes good things, to get in my way of studying God’s word. We have the Bible, those who wrote the Bible or lived during those times did not. They were the forerunners of what we’re living and the reason we have a guidebook.

In the coming days we don’t know what we’ll face. Are we prepared? Do you know the end of the book? I’m not talking a bout understanding all the prophetic words of Revelation. But what about what Apostle Paul taught clearly about end times. Are we prepared for it and can we share that wisdom and our experience with that wisdom with someone who is living in fear of the end time events?

Hebrews 11:7 KJV

[7] By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

Noah’s faith was amazing! But he still made mistakes. He got drunk and exposed himself to his kids. That’s not cool. And not only did he do that, God put it in the Bible so we’d all know it. How embarrassing! That’s far worse than a social media post. If this earth continues, I doubt anyone will be talking about me in a 1000 years. But Noah, it’s been thousands of years and we’re still telling his tale. But the point of his life is, because he listened to God he saved his family and God’s creation. 

Do we have the kind of willingness to step out in something so bold? This is why Paul (or the writer of Hebrews) brought up Moses, and Abraham who also followed God’s will but lied along the way. And Sarah, who laughed when God said He would give her a child, and because of her unwillingness to wait, we have the story of Ishmael, and the mess his people have created. Sometimes our refusal to submit to the will of God comes with a great Price. 

Price is an interference in the will fo God

It costs us to stay in the will of God. It costs us free time to study God’s word, it might cost us friendships. It costs commitment to go to church and be a part of the body in leadership ways. This is a price that much of the world is not willing to pay.  Parents want obedient children, but they’re not willing to take them to God’s house where they can be taught why we obey. People want respect on the job, but rather than standing strong in the word of God, they allow the world to interfere with their mind and expose themselves to language and other evil things, and then no one respects them. Being a child of God cost Jesus His life, is it any surprise that it should cost us something to carry His name? And truthfully He is still paying the price, because those failures are what He died for. And our unwillingness to acknowledge that causes us to be unproductive. 

So my final question is this: 

How productive are you in the will of God?

We all fail, just like all of the heroes of the faith. But will we be productive in the work of the Kingdom today? Have you prayed and ask God what His will for your “day” is. Not your life, not such a broad scope, just your day. You’re about to embark on a day filled with possibilities and people. Have you swallowed any pride? Are you prepared? Will you pay the price to produce a work for the kingdom that will not burn up in the 🔥 fire?

Let’s do it!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Political, Uncategorized

The First Mask Mandate

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The First Mask Mandate

In seeking some comedic relief for my own sanity this morning in light of living in a nation of treasonistic (I know that’s not a word, but it should be) democratic leaders, my my wandered to wondering. I wondered about where the first mask mandate was in the Bible. I know… that’s odd thinking, but…. I’m an odd duck and I need entertainment that will keep my mind off of stupidity. But the irony of it all, is that it drew my mind right back into this weird world for which we reside. 

So here we go… 

THE FIRST MASK MANDATE

Exodus 34:29-35 KJV

[29] And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses’ hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him. [30] And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone; and they were afraid to come nigh him. [31] And Moses called unto them; and Aaron and all the rulers of the congregation returned unto him: and Moses talked with them. [32] And afterward all the children of Israel came nigh: and he gave them in commandment all that the Lord had spoken with him in mount Sinai. [33] And till Moses had done speaking with them, he put a vail on his face. [34] But when Moses went in before the Lord to speak with him, he took the vail off, until he came out. And he came out, and spake unto the children of Israel that which he was commanded. [35] And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses’ face shone: and Moses put the vail upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him.

THE FEAR OF FAITH

Moses, the leader of the people, who had stepped out in faith so many times, who had been mocked and murmured about… wait a minute…. you mean even that far back in history, God’s people mocked leadership? Yep. But this day they were not mocking him, because this day he stood with the shekinah glory of God upon him that caused his face to glow and they were afraid! They wouldn’t even come near Moses until other leadership stepped up and proved that he wasn’t an alien or something. And then, because of the glow from his face he had to cover it up before the people would listen. 

There’s something about the glory of God that makes people very uncomfortable. I used the phrase “fear of faith” because it’s an evident fear of the Holiness of God. It’s why a person who judges the world by biblical standards doesn’t have too many close friends and are often mocked for being “holier than thou”; when in fact that’s not the case, but rather they know themselves to be every bit as unworthy as anyone else. People can’t handle holy. 

The world has a fear of faith when it comes to Christianity. Like Moses, a child of God should not fear nearing the Lord. But in drawing close and allowing the light of God to illuminate the sin in our lives, our relationship with God becomes closer. There is no need for a mask, God knows the true you and loves us any way. But when Moses descended from the the mount he was descending with the law, and it for sure called them out of how they’d been living. I’m really surprised that they made him wear the mask and not themselves. It was they who didn’t want to see the holiness of God. 

Neither does America. Right now in America we have people giving us evidence that treason occurred in multiple states, in multiple ways and our election was anything but fair. And those who hate our current administration would rather allow treason than admit wrong doing by their party. 

This was the second time Moses had had to bring them the commandments. He’d destroyed the first set because God’s children had fallen into idol worship and drug leadership down with them before Moses made it to the top of the mountain the first time. When he returned he discovered they’d made a golden cow to worship because, obviously that could save them in days of trouble. Good grief, I guess we’ve always been idiots. For certain if you can create something it doesn’t have any power. When God creates something He speaks it and it “is.” Glory! That’s power. And the world is afraid of anything they can’t do. 

So Moses masks up so not to intimidate the people with the glory of God. 

We need some leadership who are willing to let God’s glory shine until the people adjust. It’s been a long time since there has been in holiness in our nation. We’ve allowed evil to overcome and be justified. I’m always shocked that Aaron cowered to the people and made the calf. He was so close to Moses. He had seen all that God had done and yet without Moses by his side he fell hard and fast. Just like America. While politics have been corrupt for quite a while, there seemed to be a some checks and balances in the mix that kept us out of completely vile behavior. But not now. But then again, Aaron and Miriam murmured against their brother Moses. Humanity is fickle.

It’s no wonder the Lone Ranger and all the other heroes of the day wore masks. This world doesn’t like the truth in any shape or form. 

I am an anti mask gal. I haven’t worn them much in this mandated era. I don’t for two seconds think they do us any good. And if you listen to right medical people, they’ll tell you the same. But when it comes to spiritual masks, I’m not about to wear one. You can see my flaw, they’re an evident fact. But you can also see my God and His glory and I will not cover it up! 

It’s my prayer that He uncovers the deception of this country and that the wicked are dealt with and justice is served. If He chooses to allow it to continue, I continue to wait for Gabriel’s horn. I’m pretty sure Gabriel’s not wearing a mask either… how else could he blow the horn?

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

The Day Religion played Politics

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Day Religion played Politics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hebrews 6:17-20 KJV

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

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

Two things never change:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted in Christian Service, Church attendance, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Political

Hold on for the Good News

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Hold on for the Good News
The Jesus Chick Art

What if this were your last free Sunday to go to Church?

That question puts Tuesday in perspective. And no, I’m not a conspiracy theorist or a right wing fanatic. I’m Shari Johnson the Jesus Chick, who loves to go into denial and 

believe that the world is not full of evil. I much prefer believing the best of everyone. That tomorrow is filled with gumdrops and flowers. But at this stage in the game, I can’t. I hope you’ll read on for a little bit of a reality check, and then keep reading on for hope! 

The Rise Against the Church

Following the North Valley Baptist Church being fined over $100,000 for refusing to close their church amid the Corona Virus, they finally caved on September 15, not being able to withstand the continued persecution. Pastor Jack Trieber said that he was “Going to let God fight this battle.”

My heart breaks for Pastors who are trying to do what’s right in a world gone so wrong. I’ll was at Victory Baptist Church Sunday morning, properly distanced from anyone but family. We’ve done the live broadcast when necessary, we encourage those of ill health to stay home, but seeing half of my congregation out for greater than 7 months is heart wrenching, because I know the tole it takes on me to miss one service. 

Because of the state of our Nation and the current political climate, I question what part of that California incident was because of the virus and what part was a test on seeing how quickly government could mandate and receive compliance for churches to close. While it certainly caused us to be creative in getting the word out to our people, we cannot deny the effect it had on those (and there are many) without access to preaching. Add to that the fact that social media has began monitoring our posts closely and controlling them to the point where, either no one sees them, or they’ll just flat out ban it and lock you in Social Media jail until you remove it. That’s not conspiracy theory rhetoric, that’s a known fact. They’ve controlled the narrative of this election to the point that if you didn’t search for the information, you didn’t see it. And if you didn’t search on a search engine besides google, the truth evaded you.

If  Biden and Harris are allowed to win on Tuesday, I fully believe what’s happening in California will make it’s way east at an alarmingly fast pace. Their voting records show it, don’t take my word for it. When the riots broke out in the west and north, there were no Democrats calling for arrests because of the lack of social distancing. But the Governor and Mayor of New York were threatening Jews for holding a funeral. Life went beyond ridiculous. 

So let’s look at it from God’s perspective by aligning the word up with the way the world is turning. 

Prior to Paul’s conversion, in Acts 8:3 it says:

As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering into every house, and hailing men and women, committed them to prison.

Within the last two weeks over $150,000 in fines have been levied against houses of worship in New York for violation of COVID-19 restrictions. Andrew Cuomo, Governor of New York called the religious community “super spreaders” and that the church meetings had been a problem for weeks. They are the modern day Saul’s. So you may say, “well no ones being beaten for their religion.” 

Tell that to the Jews in New York who have been beaten. And yet it’s not been on the news.

https://www.timesofisrael.com/orthodox-jew-beaten-on-new-yorks-coney-island-boardwalk

Imagine if there had been social media in biblical days. What if Stephen’s stoning was captured on video, or the Apostles could have texted one another where the danger  ⚠️ was or who’s house the next meeting would be held.  We may not have video, but what we have is the word of God that has been preserved for thousands of years. Paul didn’t sugar coat his part in the story of being the persecutor or the persecutee. But you’ll not get that level of honesty today.

Saul’s and Paul’s are alive and well today, but their tactics have modernized.

Consider the fact that Governor Cuomo of New York has put a mandate on churches and schools in certain COVID hot spots in New York and threatened to withhold funding from those communities that don’t comply. Sounds like a Saul tactic of today.

https://www.wsj.com/articles/gov-cuomo-threatens-to-withhold-funds-from-new-york-city-other-covid-19-hot-spots-11602712580

Its not just New York, it’s Nationwide that government has taken edicts and made them laws without congress. That is very dangerous ground. Especially in light of the fact that a CDC update  says individuals are more likely to survive the coronavirus after contracting it. The health agency says if you have the virus between the ages of 0 to 70, you have a 99% survival rate. And if you’re over 70, the survival rate is nearly 95%.

And why are we locked down? Use individual caution, yes! Destroy our nation from within, no!

Acts 9:1-2 KJV

[1] And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, [2] And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

While the examples I gave are Jewish, it is all religions that acknowledge one true Jehovah GOD that are at risk. You’ll note they’ve been no Muslim Mosques in the news.  Scripture doesn’t say that Paul went after any other type of worshipper. Just Christians.  

But for hope!

Hebrews 6:18 KJV

[18] That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

There is no fake news in Heaven!

And in these scary days we have a strong consolation (comfort) in the Lord Jesus Christ that no man or mandate can take away. The Holy Spirit, God the Father and God the Son have us covered, come what may. It’s in the Word of God that we will find every ounce of hope needed to make a dark day into a glorious day of light! God spoke light into existence, and it took over the darkness.   Well glory to God the same holds true today. It’s not that the darkness still doesn’t exist, but when God speaks it’s gone! And the day will come when it will be gone completely, but until then our hearts can go on singing and praising the One True God, that the world has no control over. 

Unless Christ returns today, Tuesday will come and go. The election results may or may not be what we want. But our hope is not in those results anyway. Yes, It’ll be better if Trump wins, but it certainly won’t be without issue. If Biden and Harris win, be not deceived, what’s happening in New York and California will be a drop in the bucket by comparison. Better forewarned than caught off guard. Be ready!!! But never lose Hope! Never lose your “happy.” We win folks. Let’s go along for the ride until the Lord picks us up!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service

The Profit and Loss of God’s People

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Profit and Loss of God’s People

Job 22:1-2 KJV

Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered and said, Can a man be profitable unto God, as he that is wise may be profitable unto himself?

I’m not a fan of Eliphaz the Temanite, after all, when our man Job was down as low as he could get, Eliphaz was one of the three not so encouraging friends who came to tell Job to get his heart right and his life would get better. Who needs a friend like that? But how many of us don’t have one. I’ll not name names. They likely don’t read my blog anyway, because I’m sure my grammar is just ghastly and upsets their psyche. But as for Eliphaz, he did have a great question. One he likely should have looked in the mirror and asked, “Am I profitable to God.”

First of all, what would God look upon as profit, He who owns the universe? 

Samuel told the people of God in 1 Samuel 12:20-21

And Samuel said unto the people, Fear not: ye have done all this wickedness: yet turn not aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart; And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain.

That’s a good word for all of us! It is so easy to turn away from God to something that catches our eye and looks “profitable” but ends up being little more than a distraction, if not a great waster of time and money. Oh good grief, am I preaching to myself alone? It’s true. I need that “one more thing” from Amazon to make my life complete but then after that is “one more thing.” And before long I have no profit to give to God, only debt. So back to my 2nd question, What does God look upon as profit? 

Wisdom is Profitable

Ecclesiastes 7:11 KJV 

Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit to them that see the sun.

For me the definition of wisdom, in the “dictionary of Shari” is “intelligence wrought with insight.” Deep right? Maybe not. But what I mean by that is wisdom goes further just what we learn. It’s the application of intelligence that is profitable. Okay… maybe that should be definition 2 in the dictionary of Shari. Knowing something isn’t wisdom unless it applied properly. Someone can have the intelligence to invent something amazing, but unless they have the wisdom on how to use it for good, then it’s not wisdom. For example, Bill Gates. A man of great intelligent with regard to the computer world, but right now he’s not using that with wisdom. He’s using it for evil. He’s a “ga-jillionaire” but what is his purpose in eternity? 

While the widow, who knows nothing of cyber land, but receives a small pension from her husband, and tithes it into the collection plate at church, allowing for extra for the missionaries, is highly profitable in eternity. 

Proverbs:10:2

Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death.

Isaiah 48:17

Thus saith the Lord, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the Lord thy God which teachers thee to profit, with leaders thee by the way that thou shoudest go. 

God has not problem with His children profiting in life, but He wants that profit to have godly purpose.

The Word is Profitable

Acts 20:20-21 KJV

And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house, Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

Just going through these scriptures this morning I realize that I do not profit in the word of God nearly as much as I should. Every time I read scripture my heart overflows with blessing. Far greater than the blessing of any Amazon order arriving on the door step. Because I know that the wisdom that I am awarded for my effort, and will hopefully share with those I come into contact with will lay up for me rewards in Heaven. I’ll have those stars in my crown that are so often sung about. 

But not without using the word with godly wisdom. Studying to show myself approved and applying that wisdom to my life. Then I have gifts 🎁 🎁  🎁 for the King!

1 Timothy 4:8

For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. 

The Woodshed is Profitable

2 Timothy 3:16

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.

I’m no more of a fan of the woodshed than I am Eliphaz. It’s not a good time when you feel the Spirit of God chastising you for wrong doing. But it’s profitable. Else I’d make the same mistake again. But we live in a world where no body wants to get their little feelings hurt… myself included. But I have first hand seen the damage that causes not only in my own life but in the lives of families who choose not to discipline their children or accept godly preaching on behavior. 

When I see those nutcase children screaming into a camera and posting it on social media for all the world to see my first thought is “Your parents must have disciplined you with cupcakes and rainbow sprinkles. The woodshed may hurt temporarily but the outcome is of great reward. 

Good Works are Profitable

Titus 3:8

This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. Theses things are good and profitable unto men.

While good works will not save you, they don’t go un-noticed by God. And while I’m not sure what the stars in our crown will be awarded for, I do know who we’ll have the opportunity to award them to, and that would be the Savior! I want that profit! I don’t want to stand before my Savior, Who gave it all for me, and have nothing to give Him in return. I want to be a part of the celebration on that glorious day in Heaven when we stand before the King and He says well done! And then I want to lay that crown down at His feet like the woman with the alabaster box. I want to kiss His feet and thank Him for all He’s done in my life!

This World Is Not Profitable

Mark 8:36

For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?

If you owned it all, and lose your soul by failing to accept the price that Jesus Christ paid for you to be in Eternity with Him for ever, you’ll burn up in the final days and live in Hell for eternity. If you do not know what it means to know Christ as Savior and Lord, please, contact me or a bible believing preacher, and it’s sad to say, that’s not every preacher. Remember what I said about there being a difference between wisdom and intelligence. There’s a lot of smart preacher out there who don’t have wisdom. They’ve bought the lies of the world as well. If you’re unsure of who to turn to, message me, and I’ll find you a preacher in your area. But don’t miss out on the greatest of all blessings!!!! 

Posted in Christian Service, Church Unity, Evangelism, failure, Faith, Political

The Power of Jesus Christ

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Power of Jesus Christ

One week from today will be the final day of voting. At this point I just want it over. I’m tired of the lies and betrayal. I’m really especially tired of the stupidity. And the fact that they document it on video. When I see some of the young people going into a tirade of a fit that cannot be outdone by the brattiest of toddlers, my thoughts immediately goes to their parents. What must they think? Are they embarrassed, ashamed, heaven help us… proud? We are living in insane times. I’m praying that next Tuesday goes in the Lord’s favor and for His glory, and that when it does the crazies don’t come out of the woodwork. But what are we going to do if it happens? I am the queen of denial! I can just go into my make believe world where it’s all candy bars and gum drops and forget the crazies exist, but then what if they break into my sweet spot? 

What happens then?

This morning I read t through the betrayal of Christ. I imagined the sting in the heart of Christ as Judas kissed His cheek, followed by His arrest. I  wondered about the fear and confusion in the hearts and minds of the disciples, who had been warned, but were far from ready. I could feel the arrogance in the hearts of the soldiers who thought they were grandiose having captured the Man Who said He was God. But more nauseating than that for me right now, is those same attitudes are alive and well 2000 years later. So what happens if our gardens become war zones next week? 

The Followers

Matthew 26:57-60 KJV

[57] And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. [58] But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest’s palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end. [59] Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death; [60] But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses,

Peter had to have been in shock. His best friend, whom he thought was going to establish His Kingdom on earth had been arrested and was being beaten and abused and he stood afar off and watched. He followed Him to His trial. But earlier he had said he would follow Him to the end of time. No doubt Peter’s mind and heart were at odds. His heart said “Defend Him!” But his mind said run.

Yesterday on BlazeTV’s, the Steve Deace show they were taking questions from his Facebook followers. The first question was “If I should be persecuted for Christ, should I fight, or should I stand silent?” That’s a tough question. But it’s why I love the Blaze news. They ask the tough questions. Steve Deace didn’t really have an answer because everything is circumstantial. There is a time to fight, but there is also a time to say, “Come Lord Jesus.” We have to rely on the Spirit for guidance by Seeking Knowledge In Christ.

But in Peter’s day, the Spirit had not yet come. 

The Failures

Matthew 26:69-75 KJV

[69] Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. [70] But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. [71] And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth. [72] And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man. [73] And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee. [74] Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew.

I’m sure he never thought it would happen. But it did. Suddenly he found himself between a rock and hard place and fear consumed him. And so he denied God. 

What would we have done? What will we do if we are put in this place? For us, we hope we stand strong in the Spirit of God. But what about the people who have professed Christianity but have refused to stand on His word when they were not being persecuted. What will happen to them? Are they even saved? Will they see the error of their ways, or jump on the band wagon of persecutors.  

The number of people who say they’re Christian is huge! The number of people sitting in the church on Sunday morning is not. That should tell us where they’re going to stand in the day of persecution. It unfortunately gives us a glimpse of where they’ll be when it comes to defending the people of God, or crying crucify.

The Faithful

[75] And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.

Peter knew he had failed. Nobody needed to tell him. Reality kicked in, and he was no longer in his world of candy bars and gumdrops. If he ever was. But this is where I find great hope! Yes, there were hard times ahead, but in the midst of the hard times there was the Pentecost! 

Acts 2:1 KJV

[1] And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.

The church had reunited. Thousands were saved!! How exciting is that! The Holy Spirit had come upon and in God’s people and they had found the strength needed to make great things happen in His name and for His glory. Hey folks! We have the Spirit too!  This is not a time to feel as though we’re failures as followers. No, we are given the power in Jesus Christ to do great things. And now I’ve wrote myself happy. 

Thinking on next week I know in my heart of hearts, that as a child of God He has me covered and He has a plan for me. Regardless of the outcome I am a disciple of God meant to tell the world about Jesus. My job is laid out. If you’re a child of God, so is yours. Walk in hope!!! Our God is faithful to the faithful!!!