Tag: Shari Johnson

Posted in Bible Journaling, Evangelism, Grace

An Unlikely Heir of King Jesus

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on An Unlikely Heir of King Jesus

From the 2024 “New Year🦋New Joy” Womens Conference in Grantsville, West Virginia January 6, 2024

Can you remember the movie Pretty Woman? How many of you go back to 1990 when you hear that song….

I’m sorry to take your mind to such worldly place on the day of our ladies retreat. But when I began to study for this event, I realized that God used some characters that did not fit into the normal Baptist women mold. There would be some churches that wouldn’t even welcome God’s 41st Great Grandmother into the house of the Lord. Imagine?

And she is our topic of discussion today as I maybe introduce you to some outside the box ideas of who God is willing to use in the ministry of the Lord. 

When I think about the fact that God has allowed me to be The Jesus Chick, I’m shocked for a few reasons. First of all, nobody but me knows how undeserving I am of that title. It was given to me by a preacher early in my Christian walk, because I was always talking about Jesus. I could not get enough of the word of God and I would listen to any preacher that would talk to me. I wanted to pick their brains about what the word of God meant. I wanted to understand who I was in Christ and where I was heading. And so this preacher began calling me “The Jesus Chick,” and it stuck. I started the Jesus Chick ministry in 2010  and the rest is history. But what’s not history is the fact that I feel like a failure, nine days out of ten as the Jesus Chick. Because from the time I was a child I was groomed to believe that church women wear knee length dresses, very little make up and only as much bling as not to draw attention to yourself. 

So when I read that someone of the character of Rahab in the lineage of Jesus Christ, and I go back and read her history, I feel hope for myself. Isn’t it the truth with the most of us that we feel better about ourselves when we’re in the presence of someone else who struggles with life. It makes us not feel so doggone bad about ourselves if we’re hanging out with utter failures. 

It’s the same when I hear a preacher, or another Christian share with me their struggles. And it’s why it’s important as children of God that we’re honest about who we are. I have always felt less. I felt less than my smart sister Shelia. I felt less than my outgoing sister Sarah. 

I’ve met enough Susie Seat Savers and Holy Harriett’s to last me a life time. Those who pretend like their poop don’t stink and they are above reproach in the house of God. I love people who let me see who they really are. I think Rahab was that kind of woman. She wasn’t a pretender. Behind her less than godly lifestyle was a woman who truly cared about her family and the people of God. 

And I think that is most women. We’re just trying to survive. And when we start looking at who we are, and our imperfections and lining ourselves up next to those perfect women, whether it’s on social media, in the church or others in our family, it sows seeds of doubt in our character that can cause us not to step out when we’re given the opportunity. 

I have to wonder what would have happened if Rahab had sent the spies to a better part of town? What if she had “thought” about who she was, where she came from, what she had done, she may not have hid the spies, and may not have even answered the door. 

So I’ll ask you today, what doors have you closed, or refused to open because you don’t feel you’re worthy of the chance. I’m going to switch up the direction your mind is going right now. My first topic is 

The Unlikely Escort

I love secret agent and romantic comedy movies. Those are my favorite. And this is how this story plays out to me. Joshua sends two of his guys out, no names, so I’m calling them  Richard Gear and Pierce Brosnan. you pick your own heroes to play the characters in the story.  And they go to the home of Rahab, who looks a lot like Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman.” And scripture says

Joshua 2:1 KJV

And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot’s house, named Rahab, and lodged there.

Why there? Likely because it wasn’t uncommon for men folk of all kinds to visit Rahab’s establishment. God said she was a harlot.  He did not make any bones about the fact that she was a woman of the evening and not of reputable character. And the two strange men showing up at her house wouldn’t immediately raise any questions.  

Do you know that God doesn’t not care who you’ve been, He only cares about who you are now. 

When Rahab, (aka Julia Roberts) decided that she was going to serve God and help His people, the fact she was a hooker didn’t matter. She knew that the God of the Israelites was a big enough deal to change her life for. That’s what I discovered in 1996. I wasn’t a harlot, but sin is sin. No matter the kind. 

Joshua 2:2-21 KJV

And it was told the king of Jericho, saying, Behold, there came men in hither to night of the children of Israel to search out the country. [3] And the king of Jericho sent unto Rahab, saying, Bring forth the men that are come to thee, which are entered into thine house: for they be come to search out all the country. [4] And the woman took the two men, and hid them, and said thus, There came men unto me, but I wist not whence they were: [5] And it came to pass about the time of shutting of the gate, when it was dark, that the men went out: whither the men went I wot not: pursue after them quickly; for ye shall overtake them. [6] But she had brought them up to the roof of the house, and hid them with the stalks of flax, which she had laid in order upon the roof.

A lesson that every Christian can learn from Rahab is to: 

Have Courage in the Face of Adversity.

Rahab was so brave, if she’d been caught in her lie, it would have likely gotten her killed. Probably right on the spot. No arrest. Just slaughtered. Because the King could have cared less about a hooker from the wrong side of the tracks. We cannot identify with Rahab’s life because the culture of their day was so much different than ours today. But we can identify with adversity about lifestyles, but unfortunately ours is from the other direction. Rahab wasn’t living in an area where religion was an issue. Except false religions. But nobody was judging her because she wasn’t at church on Sunday. She was judged because she was a woman and She was a prostitute. Both of which put her way down on the list for an

`yone caring about her. But here she was being looked down upon  of her profession and being born a woman. But you don’t see a woman living in fear. Or having any intention of staying in that lowly position. 

In this story we  learn that being a hooker was not her only line of work. She was into agriculture and maybe even the fashion industry. The flax would have been dried and used to make linen and wool. So Rahab wasn’t lazy. She was creative. She may have been a little loose with her ethics,  but she had her priorities in order.

Today’s conference was done for the purpose of encouraging women to find joy in their lives where they are. Look at Rahab’s life. From our perspective we see no reason for joy in her circumstances. But I don’t believe that’s how it was. I believe Rahab did have joy in working to be a better woman. 

She was aware of what was going on in the community. She had heard that Israel was coming. She knew that her people were in danger, and she had determined if she ever got the chance she was going to take are of her family. What a noble woman. If God could look past her lifestyle and use her in the Kingdom, even allowing her to be named on the family tree of Christ, why would he not do something equally amazing with us?

If we put our priorities in line, would they look like Rahab’s?

Concern for our family?

Concern for the community?

Concern for making a living?

What’s changed? Absolutely nothing. This is still the priority of most women. But are we so bold as Rahab to stand up in the face of adversity? 

What about 

Having Courage to Answer when God Calls

So these men of the king took after the spies. And when they did, Rahab gave the all clear to the the two spies, Richard and Pierce, to head out of the city. But before she let them go, she got saved. At that time Christ was prophesied, not known, Salvation was and is in the belief of the Only true God. So this is what scripture says that  Rahab tells the spies. 

 [9] And she said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you. [10] For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed. [11] And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath. 

So here’s another question for you. Do you understand how amazing God is? Has your heart ever melted like Rahab and her people when you discovered who God was. She had heard of His miracles. When I got saved, God put me in a place where I heard the miracles. I not only heard them, I experienced a few of them on my own. But over the years you forget the miracles  if you don’t share the stories.

When I say miracles, I’m not talking about Moses parting the water level of miracles, but for my life, what God did was amazing. 

The house almost repossessed and unknowing friend handed me $1,000 for no reason. 

The snow donut – as a new convert I wanted to go to church on a Wednesday night of a snow storm, and only our county had a whole in the radar of no snow! That’s my God!

The open heart surgery – 3 heart attacks, 2 blockages in the widow maker, open heart surgery, out of the  in 5 days, back at church and singing in the choir. 

Those are just a few of the miracles that I experienced. In the beginning of my salvation I had such big faith.  Rahab had to have had big faith to do what she did. 

She not only had the courage to answer when God called but

She had Courage to Ask

[12] Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD, since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father’s house, and give me a true token: [13] And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death. [14] And the men answered her, Our life for yours, if ye utter not this our business. And it shall be, when the LORD hath given us the land, that we will deal kindly and truly with thee. [15] Then she let them down by a cord through the window: for her house was upon the town wall, and she dwelt upon the wall. [16] And she said unto them, Get you to the mountain, lest the pursuers meet you; and hide yourselves there three days, until the pursuers be returned: and afterward may ye go your way. [17] And the men said unto her, We orewill be blameless of this thine oath which thou hast made us swear. [18] Behold, when we come into the land, thou shalt bind this line of scarlet thread in the window which thou didst let us down by: and thou shalt bring thy father, and thy mother, and thy brethren, and all thy father’s household, home unto thee. [19] And it shall be, that whosoever shall go out of the doors of thy house into the street, his blood shall be upon his head, and we will be guiltless: and whosoever shall be with thee in the house, his blood shall be on our head, if any hand be upon him. [20] And if thou utter this our business, then we will be quit of thine oath which thou hast made us to swear. [21] And she said, According unto your words, so be it. And she sent them away, and they departed: and she bound the scarlet line in the window.

Remember what I said about Rahab’s priorities. She asked God to protect her family. Talk about a miracle. When that was fell in Jericho, guess who’s house was still standing. Do you know that when the world falls apart around us, if we have our priorities in check, our house will remain standing. She trusted that God would protect her family if she remained faithful and God did. She was bold enough to ask for the impossible. Can you imagine the joy in that house, when that wall fell and they were safe. Yes, they were sad about their friends. But they had joy in the safety of the Lord. 

In this day and age, we need the joy of the Lord in our families. And we need to experience the level of courage that Rahab did in order to experience the joy. You cannot have one without the other.  

There’s going to be Sister Susie Seat Savers and Holy Harriett’s in Heaven. They’re saved. But there will not be snarky attitudes in Heaven. Remember the scene in Pretty Woman when Julia Roberts went back to that boutique and told that snotty woman about the sale she missed out on. Well, I have to wonder if when Rahab got to Heaven, if she didn’t swing by the mansions of Susie and Harriett, and maybe point out that hers was located a little closer to Jesus’ place, and that maybe the job Jesus gave her was hospitality hostess of the banquet room and she was responsible for the seating chart. And Susie and Harriett were going to be at the far left of the back of the room. 

Jesus gives us a story like Rahab to put some common sense in our life about who He believes is important. It’s not about the fact that Rahab was a Harlot. It’s the fact that Rahab’s heart was right. 

Our positions in this life have nothing to do with our positions in Heaven. That is entirely dependent upon how we spend our life. Are you going to spend it with Joy, or are you going to spend it in judgement of yourself, other people. 

What Adversity are you facing in your life?

How are you Answering God when He asks you to step up?

What are you willing to ask God to do. 

We look at joy as Jesus, others, yourself. 

That is exacting what Rahab did. She trusted God above all else. She took care of her family. And in so doing, took care of herself being named in the family tree of Christ. 

So we’re going to take a break, and then we’re going to be creative like Rahab. We’re going to give each of you an ornament and provide decorations that you can hot glue to your hearts content and create something that will bring joy to you when you look at it because you’re reminded that you too are in the lineage of Christ through the blood of Jesus. 

Posted in Eternity, Faith, Heaven

He Took Care of Heaven, But You Need to Show Up

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One thing I’ve learned about holidays is, heartache doesn’t take those days off. As a news publisher I watched as multiple obituaries came in, domestic violence ravaged homes, a house fire, and more. Good reports as well, I don’t want to fail and recognize that even in the midst of heartache there were many joyous moments too. But life is hard, and holidays are harder. And we need to be aware of those around us. 

Last night we had a sparse night for our Wednesday night service. Many had been out due to Covid that’s making it’s way around once again. Some had family obligations, I would say that others simply decided to stay home. But the lesson wasn’t wasted on those of us who attended as the Associate Pastor taught the final lesson in our series on the “Sermon on the Mount,” from Matthew Chapter 7.

As Jesus closed out His sermon on the mount, 

In Matthew 7:21-23, He did what most preacher’s do, he questioned the audience about their relationship with Himself. Saying, “Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in Heaven. Many will say to me in that day Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in they name: and in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” 

The thing about trials, heartache and tribulations; they can call into question our eternal state. So as Jesus brings their time together to an end, he has a final warning to the 

Make Believers

Getting in the middle of a hard time is not the best time to determine you’re not saved, but an even worse time is when you’re face to face with Jesus in eternity. By then its too late. The question I have to ask is, if being saved is so easy, why are there so may who won’t be? Jesus tells the crowd, salvation is more than mere words. Saying I believe in Jesus isn’t enough. Satan too knows that Jesus is God. But there has to be a difference in the heart.

Romans 10:10 KJV

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Salvation has got to bring a change in who you are and a desire to be more Christ like. 

Self Deceivers

Can you believe that there will be preachers stand before God unsaved? Jesus says as much when he says that people who have “prophesied” in His name, meaning to preach! I guess its not hard to believe in this day and age. But many of them will be shocked, thinking they were doing what was right. A preacher who changes the word of God to create works of religion or profits for themselves, causing someone else to believe a lie and making the word of God void will stand accountable before God. And be lost.

Over Achievers

Probably the greatest insult to the Lord is the filthy rags that people will drop at His feet and say “Look what I did for You, Lord.” Good things on the surface, like feeding the poor, helping their neighbor, giving to to the church. But no relationship with Christ Himself.

Can you imagine never speaking with your parent until the end of life and then trying to convince them you cared? Telling them that you thought of them often but never read their letters to you, or thanked them sincerely for giving you life. But then at the end threw your achievements down at their feet and said “I did this for you.”

Did ya? 

This week I started staying the night with my Mother and preparing a meal or two every day because she needs the help. Not according to her. But the issue has been convincing her that she needed my help. Because she is, and always will be the caretaker. Well, Jesus really is the Caretaker. He doesn’t need my help. But He does need me to visit with Him and carry on conversations as I would with any real person in my life.

You cannot be a child of God and have no relationship with Him. No matter how much you achieve it will have all been for nothing and an absolute insult to God. He took care of Heaven, all you have to do is show up.

Posted in Christian, Life Inspiration

The One Thing

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Since the beginning, when man fell in the garden, they fell because they were looking for that one thing. That one thing was to “have it all.” When Satan tempted Eve with the fruit that God had clearly said “if you eat it you shall die,” he did so with the words:

Genesis 3:4-5 KJV
And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: [5] For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

It was the only thing in the garden that God said they couldn’t have. Not because He wanted it for Himself, but because He knew that it would lead to their destruction. The knowledge gained by that fruit was the lust of the flesh. Once their eyes were opened to sin, nothing would satisfy them. It would drive their son to kill his brother, their descendants to sleep with their children, then to kill their children. Everything in life would be justifiable in the eyes of man. If you want it, take it. Do it. Never look back.

Why is that man’s mentality?

I see that sin in my own life far more than I care to confess. I love “stuff.” Not powerful stuff, not even stuff anyone else would probably care for. But I’m like the magpie. It is said within European culture that magpies are attracted to shiny objects and routinely steal small trinkets such as jewelry. I’m not going to steal jewelry, but I confess to have a fetish for what I call junk jewelry, that of a costume persuasion. To the point my husband had to make me a new jewelry box to hold my “treasures” because I ran out of room in the old one.

But in Luke 18, Jesus spoke with a man who probably wasn’t into “junk.” He had acquired great wealth. But he knew enough to know that he lacked one thing that he could not provide himself. Eternal life. So he has this conversation with Jesus and just flat out asks Him,z “Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”

What I realized when I read the response of Christ, is that Christ doesn’t miss a word in our conversations with Him.

THE CONVERSATION

Luke 18:18-23 KJV
And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? [19] And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God. [20] Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother. [21] And he said, All these have I kept from my youth up. [22] Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me. [23] And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful: for he was very rich.

Jesus started right from the beginning to unpack their conversation. “Why callest thou me good?”

The ruler had obviously seen something in the way Jesus lived that made Him stand out. People were no doubt watching every move He made, especially the Pharisees, hoping He would mess up. But He never did! You can watch me five minutes and I can almost guarantee that within that time frame I’ll mess up. But Jesus’ life was so perfect that the ruler trusted Him to answer the question everyone wants to know, “How can I have eternal life.” But Jesus called him to task, saying, “none is good, save one, that is, God.”

Jesus took that one word from the man’s conversation and asks him if He really realizes Who it is that he’s talking to?

THE CONSULTATION

Jesus isn’t satisfied with our minuscule conversations. He wants those in-depth consultations where we’re on the couch of the Creator and letting Him delve into the depth of our hearts. He knew the ruler was a “good” man in the eyes of the world. He was keeping the law as best he could. He was doing everything right and yet the ruler still knew something was missing.

Imagine me, who in all my life has seemed to do everything wrong, going my own way, asking God forgiveness far more times than permission and then I too want the peace of Heaven. We all want that one thing! I know many good people who lack it. This ruler was one. Because when Jesus told him to sell all he had and follow him, the ruler went away sad. There is no movie moment where he comes to his senses and returns to Christ, throwing his wealth down at the feet of Jesus, or dropping it off at the Salvation Army on the way back. No, it just says that he was very sorrowful.

Jesus knew that at the heart of this man’s issue was his “stuff.” He wasn’t willing to just trust Christ to provide everything he needed.

I guess the good thing about having junk jewelry is you don’t mind giving it up. But there was plenty of other stuff I tried to bring along for the journey. I’ve had many conversations and consultations with the Lord where He has shown me that I’m not willing to give up everything.

THE CONVICTION

That’s what drew me out of bed at 2 a.m. and into the word of God this morning. I heard the Lord saying “Shari, we need to talk.” And no matter how hard I tried, sleep wasn’t going to happen. I knew my recent conversations with the Lord had been fleeting. Short, minuscule moments of time that I spoke to Him as if He was an acquaintance, not my Savior. I would offer up the excuse that I was busy, tired, working, etc. and it all boiled down to the same issue that the ruler had. Only he was richer. I was not wanting to sell all I had. To give up those things that made me happy or brought a sense of worldly value to my life. But then I heard Christ say, “What good is any of it, if I’m not the center of it.”

Without Him it’s just hay and stubble and will burn up when I stand before Him in eternity.

THE CONVERSION

I was saved in 1996. I had the conversion where I gave my life to Christ and began following Him. I’m still following Him! But not without the occasional detour of the mind that causes me to lose focus on what’s important. That one thing! That one thing is the eternal hope of Glory that will allow me to live in eternity with the people I love, having to never separate myself from them again. It allows me to have peace on this messed up ball of dirt, while my spirit is in the hands of God in Heaven.

The conversion didn’t prevent failure, but it prevents forfeiture. My soul is safe! Not even I can mess that up.

I need a few more “wake ups” where God gets my attention and reminds me that I have purpose, and it’s for His Glory!

Posted in Christian Service, Life Inspiration, Praise, Purpose, salvation, Word of God, worship

Weird Dreams, Limousines and what it Means

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I am a vivid dreamer; when I’m awake and when I’m asleep. But those that are dreamt when I am asleep are often so bizarre! Come to think of it… some of those that I have concocted when I’m awake are pretty strange too. I most always recall my dreams and this morning was no different, however, the dreams are not always of a spiritual nature, but this one for certain was.

Last night’s dream left me perplexed about the many spiritual connotations. The setting was a Gaither Concert in my home town. Wouldn’t that be wonderful! The physical location kept changing in my dream. It began at my new church, First Baptist Church of Grantsville, but it was an expanded building. The venue was packed and the Spirit was amazing! But then the location visual changed to a gymnasium and later to a family picnic. I warned you my dreams were weird. As the concert progressed, the attendance lessened as well as spirit. The characters of the dream changed as well. The people in the beginning were Spirit filled friends and family who were enjoying the concert being performed by the original Gaither group that I have loved since salvation. The people were praising God and I could hear them singing the songs that give glory bumps!  But then the performers changed to less or even unknown singers, the music became traditional hymns (which I love when sang with feeling) but these were being sung as though it was the funeral of heathen. It was sad! 

The next setting was the picnic where many of my family, who have gone on to glory were attending. It was so nice to see them all and we were having a great time! 

But the final scene was on a dirt road with family friends who were in a pearl colored stretch limousine service in NYC on a dirt road and I was looking to go to their house for some reason.

As strange as that is, I’ve had weirder dreams. But none that left me pondering life the way this one did. 

I don’t believe that the dream was prophetic however it did take my mind into the spiritual condition of mankind. When I say the dream was vivid and detailed, I mean right down to even the attitudes of the characters. As the desire of the people to hear the music lessened, their attitudes became apathetic, until at the end they had no idea why I had been excited to begin with. They were even questioning what salvation was.

My heart broke. These were people that I cared about.

And then I woke up, let the dog out, fixed me a cup of coffee and began to write it down with purpose. It seemed important to document. 

“You’ll Get Over It.”

That’s what someone told my dearest friend Doyle Ballengee when he was first saved. He was so excited about his new life in Christ Jesus when a rigid, stiff necked believer told him “you’ll get over it.” With a sparkle in his eye, Doyle told me, “I never did!” In his seventies he was the most exciting Christian I had ever known. I met with him often for lunch at his home in town after his wife passed away. He would fix me the best beef stew and we’d have bible study as we met at his kitchen table. Praise God, I’ve not gotten over it either, and I owe much of my excitement to those who discipled me in the beginning. 

That was the spirit of the people at the beginning of my dream. When the Gaither’s sang there were hands lifted and people praising and you knew you were in church! I remember going to my first Gaither concert as a new convert and thinking… this has got to be close to what heaven is like. Thousands of people, being kind to one another, glorifying God and enjoying life. It’s ironic that the last Gaither concert I attended left me saddened by some of the attitudes of the people. At that time I was done making the effort for others who didn’t appreciate the effort I made. They too had obviously gotten over it. 

The Spirit Was the First to Go

The gymnasium concert was when my dream began to go south. People were walking out on the concert. I felt sorry for the singers, but my second thought was “Well, if you had sung it like you meant it, the people might not have left.” The music was dry. It was the lesser known hymns being sung without feeling, almost as if they were one step above recitation. Good grief, my stomach just rolled over!

Is that not many in the church today? It is those that would say to the excited new covert, “you’ll get over it” because they have. They no longer rejoice in the Spirit of God and He has left the building. I questioned whether I should write that. It’s offensive to think that God does not want to be in some churches. Even with His saved people. But they are deader than a hammer, so dead in fact that they don’t realize they died. The Spirit is waiting to be renewed but they’re too busy proving that they’re right. 

They showed up. They went through the motions. They went home and nothing changed. If that’s the case in your church, either change it or run to one that leaves you better than when you got there and makes you concerned for souls. The Apostle Paul told young Timothy:

2 Timothy 4:3-5 KJV

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; [4] And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. [5] But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

Our work is the work of an evangelist. Whether or not you are the preacher, you should be concerned for the souls of this world, especially friends and family. And if you’re not, what you’re listening to may be interesting, but it’s not doing what God wanted the word to do.

The Spirit Moves the People to Go

2 Timothy 4:6-16 KJV

[6] For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. [7] I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: [8] Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. [9] Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me: [10] For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. [11] Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry. [12] And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus. [13] The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments. [14] Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: [15] Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words. [16] At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.

I don’t know for certain, if any, significance of that stretch limousine in my dream. Other than the fact that it was really out of place on that dirt road. The people who were in it, were the ones who looked at me like I had three heads when I told them of salvation. They’d been at the concert unmoved, and now they were unchanged and it was breaking my heart. That pretty pearl colored limousine was a pretty ride, but it wasn’t taking them to where I wanted to go. 

Paul’s departing words to Timothy hit me hard this morning. He tells the young preacher of the rewards coming to all who “love His appearing.” So many churches don’t even preach His appearing. Paul then tells Timothy to come and visit going further to say that there were people who let him down. I get that. 

For those in the ministry if you have not been hurt by someone in the ministry, you’ve likely not been serving very long. Paul even called those out who did. So could I, but I’ll not. Paul also told of those who ministered with him. It’s more important to acknowledge that and encourage them but it’s equally necessary to realize when there are people who discourage you that you mark them and move on.

In the parable of the wedding guests, Jesus said this

Luke 14:7-11 KJV

And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them, [8] When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him; [9] And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room. [10] But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. [11] For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

In the final act of my dream, the limousine reminded me that my little Kia Soul that I call the “Soul Seeker” may be a humbler ride (which, by the way, needs prayer) but it is far better to sit in a humbler place, than to sit where you don’t belong. 

Posted in Christian Service

The Inability To Keep My Mouth Shut

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Inability To Keep My Mouth Shut

I’ve had the privilege of knowing some pretty wonderful leaders; but in my mind, those who have been the best leaders by example are those who have allowed me to see them falter. I am so, so, so very far from perfect. I need to know that even the best of the best have off days. Another issue for me is that I am so involved in so many secular things, with people who may r may not be of the faith of Jesus Christ, it’s very easy for me to succumb to the flesh as those who don’t know Christ (and some who do know Christ) do. Especially in the political arena. 

This morning as I pondered a recent decision I made, and one I made abruptly, I look to the Word of God for wisdom in moving forward. Of course I should have told the person, I’ll pray about it… did I? No. Because unfortunately when it comes to making decisions small and large, my entire life has been lived making them the same way. In the spur of the moment and often with great regret.

Quite often God, in His divine mercy, has allowed me to be used for His glory in spite of my haphazard decision making. 

I think of the Apostle Peter, who in a moment of passion cut off a man’s ear who had harmed his friend Jesus. Then Jesus, just as He has done for me so many times, comes along behind Peter and cleans up his mess. Heals the man’s ear (Luke 22:51) and tells Peter to knock it off. 

John 18:10-11 KJV

Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus. [11] Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?

I have to tell you, there have been a few meetings where I would have cut a few peoples ears off if I had been given a sword. 

Between my involvement with the Republican Executive Committee, for which I currently am Active Chair, and the fact that I report on politics and other pleasant and unpleasant happenings in our area, I’ve been called out more than a few times for doing things people didn’t like. The truth is often painful and sometimes to innocent people. I hate that part of my job. But in following the concepts of journalism, people want to know things other people don’t want them to know. But where does that fall into line with my Christian faith? Is God pleased with me? That is always my concern. 

When I began Ridgeview News, I made and have kept a commitment that I would print nothing but truth. If I print opinion articles, I label it as such, and won’t print that without the evidence  of truth where I am concerned. Even still, I have cut off a few ears in my time because of my frustration with people. I would print truth, and print it harshly rather than with grace. Right or wrong, I’m not sure but you can see why I have difficulty discerning my actions. 

Add to that a recent faith based disagreement I had regarding wrong doctrine and whether or not I speak out on it, I’ve struggled with that too. 

Is it our roll as Christians to call out wrong teaching in another church? On the surface I say “no.” Because it makes the church look bad. And the issue I have isn’t with somebody misleading people on salvation, else I would call that spade a spade. But this is doctrine, post salvation, and everyone is entitled to their own opinion. So I stay silent. But I want to cut off people’s ears. Be not deceived. 

The Apostle Paul was a man of great passion. As a Jewish leader he went so far as killing those who disagreed with the Pharisees. He was at the stoning of Steven. But in one of God’s great moments of grace and mercy, He saved Paul. On the road to Damascus Paul is blinded by the saving grace of Jesus Christ. He then turned that passion for Jewish law to the passion of Jesus’ grace. But he obviously still struggled with the flesh. He was passionate, not perfect. 

2 Corinthians 12:7-10 KJV

And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. [8] For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. [9] And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. [10] Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

There are many opinions as to what that thorn in the flesh was. The spiritual thumping by Satan. His issue with lack of eyesight. It could have been any number of things. But the point is, something made him feel weak. 

Me too. It’s my inability to keep my mouth shut.

The question in the forefront of my mind this morning is “Would Paul or Peter have served in things of a political nature?”

I doubt it. They were after all ministers of the Gospel. But, I do believe they’d have had an opinion, and a strong one. If either of them had seen political leaders of the day dressed in drag, promoting abortion, allowing laws to be broken for the almighty dollar, they’d have called their names from the pulpit. 

Paul did. In Timothy 4:10 he told Timothy that Demas had forsaken him, having loved the present world. Called him right out! He did others the same way. It wasn’t because the people had hurt Paul, it was because they had hurt God. Paul said that Demas loved the world. Is that not the case with leadership today when they put anything above the Word of God? I’m talking those who say they’re saved. Not those who make no profession. But if you say you’re a believer, your decisions and your agenda should be God’s agenda. Else don’t mention the name of Christ and drag Him through the mud with you. 

My conclusion this morning was this:

Christians need to be involved because we believe in a God who cares passionately about his world and his creation, and consequently how it is run.  The Bible is hugely political – in that it is about how God wants people to behave and act towards him, and towards each other.  This involves economics and law because these are tools that need to be used to build justice.  So often it is injustice which dominates God’s world and this grieves Him. As believers in God we have much to bring to politics – a deeper commitment to justice and compassion which throughout history has made a difference in the political sphere. ~ Jon Kuhrt

He said it much more eloquently than I could. But what he said, I meant. God hates anyone’s sin. And I am certainly not without it. As heartbreaking as that is, I want no part of dragging others into sin, or deceiving people for worldly gain. Justice should be blind, but its not. However, God is no respecter of persons. As children of God we should not be either. Viewing all mankind the same… souls in need of a Savior. 

Posted in Christian Service, Word of God

The Issues with Rabbit Holes

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Issues with Rabbit Holes

My life has been on hyperdrive lately. It’s been a great asset in keeping me distracted and my thoughts away from worries or concerns. But the greatest issue with that is, it falls right into line with my ways of procrastination and avoidance of all things troublesome. I’ve had a lot of ministry work lately, which I love. I have had a lot of Ridgeview News work lately, which I love. Throw into that a mix of responsibilities with a busy life with my family, fulfilling obligations to their busyness (because that’s how I raised them) and chaos doesn’t even come close to describing it. I really do feel like I have my head down that rabbit hole, digging and digging to find where I’m going but it’s just an deep empty space that never seems to lead anywhere.

Does anyone else feel this way?

It’s always nice when Jesus throws in some stories about life with the disciples that prove to us, they were certainly relatable to our lives.

I’m going to tell you right up front, that I’m not sure I have the context of this scripture correct. I only know how it spoke to me, in light of my current busy status. Let’s see if you can relate as a child of God?

So Jesus comes down the hill and he’s accosted by people. Including a frustrated man who had taken his son to Jesus’ disciples for healing, but it didn’t happen, so he brings his son to the One. The One he knows has the power.

In case you were wondering…I’m not God.

The disciples during this time could have healed the boy through the power of Christ that had been given to them. But for some reason they were not able. There is nothing more frustrating than knowing you have the power of God on you but you can’t summons the answers from within. I know Jesus is within me. When someone comes to be with a problem, while I don’t have the power to physically heal anyone, I should be able to find the words that can give people spiritual direction. But often times, i don’t even come close.

Luke 9:37-62 KJV

[37] And it came to pass, that on the next day, when they were come down from the hill, much people met him. [38] And, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son: for he is mine only child. [39] And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising him hardly departeth from him. [40] And I besought thy disciples to cast him out; and they could not. [41] And Jesus answering said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you, and suffer you? Bring thy son hither. [42] And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare him. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father.

Christ is frustrated. But not at the disciples. He’s frustrated with the Scribes and Pharisees who had been insulting the disciples, and triumphing over them, because of their inability to cast out the evil spirit: he is directing his frustration to the unbelieving Jews.

This reminded me this morning that Christ understands my limitations. He knows that I am pulled dozens of directions and everyone of them are worthy directions. I’m either ministering to people, providing information or helping family. On the back burner I am trying to survive financially and keep my home at least moderately clean so I do not fall over something and kill myself. But to the person I’m ministering to, they see none of the background noise in my life, only that they need answers and I cannot provide them.

That was not the direction I thought this was going to go this morning. I thought Christ was going to tell me that he forgives me for my sins of being overwhelmed, off task, and unfocused. But rather He tells me, Shari… this isn’t about you. The world does not want you to succeed. Even those who desire the words of encouragement or the solutions a Christian might have to offer, know that if Christ does answer their dilemma, they’ll have to confess He’s real. Hello? They want Christ to fix their problems, (me too for that matter) but they don’t want any part of serving Him. That is brutal honesty that hurts people.

But this morning as I’m getting ready for church, the vast majority of the world is laying in the bed without any concern for Jesus this morning. Of that I am frustrated. I don’t want them in church so they can hear they’re a sinner. (Although we all are). I want them in church so they can experience the same love of Christ this morning that I felt when Jesus reminded me… I’m not God.

There are things I Still Don’t Understand

[43] And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God. But while they wondered every one at all things which Jesus did, he said unto his disciples, [44] Let these sayings sink down into your ears: for the Son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men. [45] But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from them, that they perceived it not: and they feared to ask him of that saying.

The disciples had been with Jesus. Me too! But when Jesus told them that He was going to be delivered into the hands of men, they could not fathom what that meant or why it would occur. They knew He was God. They’d seen the evidence of it. But now He’s telling them that man is going to “deliver Him up.” How could this be that man would over power God?

This is the same frustration my mind gets in when I cannot do all I want to do. How can this be? Do I not have the power of God dwelling in me? Of course I do. Then why can’t I accomplish all I set out to do? Because I’m not God.

None of us are God

Then what cracks me up, is the disciples go from trying to help people, to trying to figure out who’s going to be the boss in Heaven. They’re frustrated with a guy from another church who’s preaching in Jesus name and then when the people of the city won’t listen, they want to bring down fire from Heaven and strike them dead.

[46] Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest. [47] And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him, [48] And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great. [49] And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us. [50] And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us. [51] And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem, [52] And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. [53] And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. [54] And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? [55] But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of.

Jesus reminded the disciples and me that as frustrating as the world is, we need to remember that we were no different pre-salvation.

We are not God, but we are God’s plan

[56] For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. And they went to another village. [57] And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. [58] And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. [59] And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. [60] Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. [61] And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. [62] And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

While life get’s us off task and off focus. We’ve got to keep on going. Jesus’s return is eminent. We don’t know the hour, but it could be the one we’re living in. This morning I’m headed to church to tell some children in the Sunday School hour about the love of God and how even though we make mistakes, even though we let Him down. He’s not bringing down fire on our heads. He’s putting His arm around our shoulder and saying “Stop worrying about it… get out of that rabbit hole, put your hand to the plow and get back to work.”

Posted in Life Inspiration, Praise

The Sun Both Hardens the Clay and Melts the Wax

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Sun Both Hardens the Clay and Melts the Wax

What an interesting thought! It was mentioned in church on Wednesday night and I just couldn’t get the thought out of my mind. What causes some hearts to get stone cold when they hear the gospel and other hearts melt and are as soft and pliable as the wax.

David warned of it in Psalm 95:8

Psalm 95:1-11 KJV
O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. [2] Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. [3] For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods. [4] In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also. [5] The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land. [6] O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker. [7] For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice, [8] Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness: [9] When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my work. [10] Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways: [11] Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest.

And the writer of Hebrews mentioned it when he wrote:

Hebrews 4:7 KJV
Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

Funny thing about an excited new convert, meaning someone who just got saved, is they’ll just about beat a soul to death with the gospel because their level of excitement knows no bounds. But over time even the heart of an excited Christian can grow lack in what Christ has done in their life and forget that great feeling of strength and joy that was felt when they first came to know Christ.

My friend Doyle Ballengee told me that, as a new convert, when he told another “older” saint that he was on fire for the Lord, they responded with, “That’s great, but you’ll get over it.” Praise God I haven’t yet, and Doyle died at 80 and was the most exciting Saint of God that I ever knew. But I’ve come close on several occasions because if you hang out with soggy wood, it’s hard to get a fire started or keep yours going.

So in the context of Psalm 95, what message was David trying to get across to the children of God?

Worship is Important!

O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. [2] Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. [3] For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods.

I don’t know what the knucklehead that thought worship wasn’t important is going to do in Heaven when there are praises sang to the Lord all day long! I suppose they’ll walk around looking for Tylenol. But they’ll eventually have to get over it because eternity is a long time. But this isn’t Heaven David is talking about, it’s now. We are supposed to make noise, sing and come into His presence with a grateful heart. Because our God is greater than any. Greater than the football gods, the baseball gods, the political gods…. All of them! If you can celebrate the worldly things, why would you not want to celebrate God.

Wisdom is Immeasurable!

[4] In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also. [5] The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land. [6] O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.

Our Creator, He who now dwells in the heart of man is an immeasurable source of wisdom, strength and ability that we have dwelling within us. Isn’t that an amazing thought. When I think about what those hardened souls are missing out on it break my heart. Because God cannot be exhausted. I can give Him away one million times and there is still more of Him to share. When it come to why churches are not overflowing with people, I fully believe that it is because we are either stingy or we don’t know what we have.

Wilderness is Inward

[7] For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice, [8] Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness: [9] When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my work. [10] Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways: [11] Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest.

God was grieved for 40 years because the children wandered around in the wilderness never learning their lesson. It was their outward wandering that bothered God as much as it was their inward wandering. Their hearts did not know God. They said they erred in their heart. They grumbled, murmured, doubted and disobeyed God because they would now allow Him to govern their lives. They wanted earthly kings and earthly treasures. Are we any different. We are still wandering around in our hearts looking for something to make us happy when it’s in us. God is in us.

Today I struggled with the IRS, business, finances, housework, dogs, kids, so many things. But not one of those things seem to matter when I picked up the word of God and began to think about all He has done for me over my lifetime and over the past week.

I went on to a fire scene to cover it for the news before I realized there had been a shooting. A murder/suicide. God spared me, I could have been shot.

I was coming home from church last night and I came around a turn on my side of the road, (not like I often do) on these West Virginia turns and a large truck came around the turn too fast and I was certain he was going to hit me. He didn’t. But I knew I had just been a few inches from death and God spared my life.

God is so worthy of our praise and worship. Do not fear what man thinks, be glad God hears! I pray you are safe and you are wise and you are worshiping the Creator of you. Because He made for an exclusive purpose of bringing glory to Him through your life. How are you doing that?

Posted in Eternity, Evangelism

Is this the Beginning of the End?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Is this the Beginning of the End?

I remember as a young Christian, reading the Old Testament and thinking, “How could God destroy all those women and children? How do I know reconcile that reaction of God to the loving God that I experience as a Christian? While the mother in me, will always look at compassion upon a child, the Spirit of God has given me peace and understanding of the providence of God when it comes to the eradication of sects of people in the Old Testament, and the necessity of understanding the role that Governments should take against the Hamas who murdered teen-aged girls, children and the elderly and then dumped them in the streets of Gaza so bloodthirsty crowds could desecrate their bodies, as Senator Marco Rubio of Florida described.

But what about the role of the Church? What is our role in this attack on Israel? God’s chosen. Of course we ought to kneel and pray, earnestly and sincerely that God protect Israel. But we should also stand. America’s weak kneed Government is only slightly worse than the weak kneed church that won’t stand on God’s side for fear of hurting the feelings of God’s enemies.

We live in a society where real time images and videos show the horrific evidence of what Marco Rubio described. And yet, we have people defending their actions. We have groups of people who, they themselves, would be beheaded in the countries they defend. But what are we looking at from a Biblical perspective. Many are wondering if this is the beginning of the end? Let me preface this by saying, I’m not a biblical scholar. But I know when the Spirit speaks to my soul, and I believe that God is showing us that we need to be ready, and we need to get our people ready.

The Countries at play in this war are Countries of significant Biblical importance.

In Ezekiel 38 the word of God says in verses:1-3- And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, set thy face against Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold I am against thee, O Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal:

The significance of that is the fact that Gog and Magog are modern day Russia.

In Ezekiel 38:14-19 it speaks of a prophetic time when Russia would come against Israel, although it doesn’t seem as though they wanted to have a dog in the fight. God said in verse 16 God says that “He will bring them against Israel.”

14Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say unto Gog, Thus saith the Lord GOD; In that day when my people of Israel dwelleth safely, shalt thou not know it? 15And thou shalt come from thy place out of the north parts, thou, and many people with thee, all of them riding upon horses, a great company, and a mighty army: 16And thou shalt come up against my people of Israel, as a cloud to cover the land; it shall be in the latter days, and I will bring thee against my land, that the heathen may know me, when I shall be sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes. 17Thus saith the Lord GOD; Art thou he of whom I have spoken in old time by my servants the prophets of Israel, which prophesied in those days many years that I would bring thee against them? 18And it shall come to pass at the same time when Gog shall come against the land of Israel, saith the Lord GOD, that my fury shall come up in my face. 19For in my jealousy and in the fire of my wrath have I spoken, Surely in that day there shall be a great shaking in the land of Israel;

Iran is a supporter of Hamas and is supporting them in this current effort. Persia happens to be modern day Iran and in this same group of texts, God speaks of Persia in verse 5 of Chapter 38 saying:

5 Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya with them; all of them with shield and helmet: 6 Gomer, and all his bands; the house of Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his bands: and many people with thee. 7Be thou prepared, and prepare for thyself, thou, and all thy company that are assembled unto thee, and be thou a guard unto them. 8After many days thou shalt be visited: in the latter years thou shalt come into the land that is brought back from the sword, and is gathered out of many people, against the mountains of Israel, which have been always waste: but it is brought forth out of the nations, and they shall dwell safely all of them. 9Thou shalt ascend and come like a storm, thou shalt be like a cloud to cover the land, thou, and all thy bands, and many people with thee.

With Russia supporting Iran, the possibility of them getting drug into this war could be there.

Jesus told His disciples in Matthew 24:36 “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.”

I certainly have no clue of that hour or day. But I know this. God says that we can be aware by watching what’s going on around us and studying the word of God. The much discussed Matthew 24 says:

36But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. 37But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 38For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, 39And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 40Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. 41Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. 42Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. 43But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. 44Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. 45Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? 46Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.

I seem to be going backwards — but in the beginning of Chapter 24, Christ is speaking to His disciples. And He tells them in verses 1-6 when he tells them that there will be wars and rumors of war abounding! How many have we seen in the past few decades, and everyone brought with it the fear and concern of whether or not we are in the last days.

Well, let’s just settle that. We are. Because in the scope of eternity, our time on this earth, whether Christ returns today or 200 years from now, it’s still time to get ready. Those people in the field working when one was there and the other disappeared, was only mentioned in that context because they didn’t have the internet. Today it could read, “One was on Youtube and the other on Facebook.” But before that happens one could lose their life in a car accident, and another could be gunned down on the street. That is the world we live in. Are you ready is the question? Is your family ready? Are your friends ready? Are you prepared to never see them again if one of you have accepted Christ as your Savior and the other has not?

1And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple. 2And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. 3And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world? 4And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. 6And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.

He’s speaking to His Jewish Disciples. Those who have a different role in the events of end times. Of course, those He spoke to, are long gone from the earth. But the current, non believing Jew and the Christians of today are covered in Matthew 24. You are covered in Matthew 24 in the current state you are in.

Don’t think that the war of Israel could not come to this land. We are, whether the liberals like it or not, we are identified as a Christian nation. That came with a price tag and the denial of it will come with one too.

Stand for Israel. Stand for Christ. Stand in the Gap for the Children of God around the world. Show your loved ones that you are ready and encourage them to get their hearts ready to hear the trumpet of the Lord!

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Grace, Leadership, Life Inspiration

Just Jesus

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Just Jesus

Just Jesus. That’s too short to be a headline. But I used it anyway as an illustration for myself that, no matter how many bells and whistles, I, or someone else have, nothing matters except Jesus.

1 Corinthians 2:1-5

1And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. 2For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 3And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. 4And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

A recent series of events in my life had just about turned me against Paul. Not really, but there was certainly a hesitation to turn to the books written by him because of emphasis put on his teaching by someone else. Although there intention was not draw attention to Paul, by there over emphasizing his writing, that’s exactly what happened. Paul was placed up on a pedestal he’d have puked on if he was here in this time.

But it also caused me to think this morning about the emphasis that I put on matters of the gospel. I want my blog to aesthetically pleasing, I want my handouts to be eye catching, I want all the bells and whistles when I’m up before people and this morning as I began to write and to study the word of God, my thought was drawn to “Just Jesus.”

By comparison, Paul did have excellency of speech. He studied under the masters of the day who strengthened him as a leader. His ability to read and write with rhetorical sophistication indicates that Paul received some type of formal education. Luke claims that Saul studied under the great legal teacher Gamaliel, where he was “educated strictly according ancestral law” in Jerusalem (Acts 22:3). I’ve studied under people I believe to be masters of their trade and of the word of God, but I have yet to master anything as far as I can tell. I’m an “okay” orator. An “okay” singer, a less than adequate guitar player. But as I thought on those less than thrilling attributes of my life, I jolted myself into reality with the thought, “Just Jesus.”

Whether I am speaking, singing, teaching… just Jesus. When I go to the Nursing Home today. They just need to see Jesus. Not Shari. I pray He alone is visible in my feeble attempt at entertaining the troops that have just gotten off the battle field. That’s how I view them. They’ve been warriors that battled the spiritual and secular battles of this life for decades before me. It’s their time to rest and before they enter into their eternal rest, they need Jesus. Just Jesus.

Paul could have spoken and wowed the audience. But it says he was trembling. I know the feeling. I got up to sing for the first time at First Baptist Church this Sunday and I second guessed my song, my ability, everything, my stomach was nauseous, my knees were knocking but I continued on, praying that what they heard was my love for Jesus. Just Jesus.

There was a Deacon ordination this Sunday as well, such an exciting time. My prayer for this newly ordained servant of the church was just serve as Jesus would have you to. Just Jesus.

When Paul said, 5“That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God,” he was saying, Just Jesus. Everything a child of God does should in some way or form point to Jesus. If you’re serving in a secular job, Jesus should be evident. If people come into you home, Jesus should be evident. If you’re speaking to people, Jesus should be evident.

Today I’m heavy hearted about some people in my life who aren’t well. And so I ask, what would Jesus do to encourage them? He would make His presence known in their struggle. Help me God to do the same.

How about you, are you in the midst of a struggle? I have the answer, “Just Jesus.” That’s all we can do is turn these struggles over to Him and allow Him to do what’s best. And He’s going to.

Posted in Christian, Eternity, Evangelism, Life Inspiration, Life's Failures, salvation

Doubt Will Come — So Will Eternity

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Doubt Will Come — So Will Eternity

A few days ago I stood in the home of three young women who sat by the bedside of their mother, waiting for God to call her home. Each of the girls said that they had made professions of faith. That was as far as I could take that conversation. It was between them and God whether or not everyone was prepared for the next step in their Momma’s Journey. The return home. The Momma was just a few years older than myself. She was a Momma and a Grandmomma. A sister, friend, daughter and niece. All of the things that all of us are, but most importantly she was a child of God. 

As I tried my best to encourage the girls, I couldn’t help but think about that journey we’re all taking home. This life truly is like a vapor. It seems like yesterday that I was running in the hills of Duck Creek with cousins and siblings, scooping up turtles without a care in the world. But then suddenly without warning, there’s no running, I do well to walk some days! I’m not scooping up turtles, I’m sharing the scoop on a news site that I run on the internet. I share the stories of people lives, some happy and some sad, but all are important in the scope of eternity. 

I’ve made it no secret that I have struggled spiritually for the past few years. But now, as I embark on a new church journey, it seems that ministry opportunities are on the horizon and I’m heading back up the mountain in the spiritual sense. I told my new Pastor, when he expressed his concern for me overloading myself, that a busy Shari is a happy Shari. It also creates a focus on God and His desires and not what the world would have my attention to falter on.

While the experience of watching a friend pass away is not an enjoyable one, it is one of purpose. It draws the mind to eternity and the need for a knowing the truth. 

This morning a video popped up on my Facebook feed of a preacher who was preaching that one’s salvation could be thrown away. He referred to Hebrews 6:1-6 as evidence of that.

Hebrews 6:1-6 KJV

Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, [2] Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. [3] And this will we do, if God permit. [4] For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, [5] And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, [6] If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.

In the previous chapter, Paul was writing to some who ought to have been teachers, but who needed still to be taught the first principles of the gospel; they were such babes in grace that they needed the milk of the Word, —the very simplest elements of gospel truth, — and not the strong meat of solid doctrine. I fear that is the case in many churches across America because preachers are no longer preaching the simplest of truths. But the writer of Hebrews had no problem preaching truth. He tells them that it’s time they get off of the diet of babies and onto the food of men. 

Hebrews 6:1a. Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection;— The very basics of the word of God and move on to the deeper understanding. It’s as if he was saying, you’ve passed elementary school, now let’s move higher up the ladder of understanding until we get to the university level. And by the way, that level is achieved through the Holy Spirit. Not some seminary or college that teaches you to be a stick in the mud. 

Hebrews 6:1b — Not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,

Let us make sure that the foundation of understanding is laid, but let’s not do it again and again. I know people who have been “saved” over and over again, believing that they had lost their salvation. God knows the wretched heart of man can not live a perfect life, but we can acknowledge the sin, repent and move on. Believing that sin was covered by the blood of Christ.  

Hebrews 6:2. Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. This is what we’ve been taught and believe, there should be no disputation about them, but move on  to the work of Christ. This is why churches fail to see souls saved. They’re stay on the fundamentals of faith, and the work of God goes undone.

Hebrews 6:3. And this will we do, if God permit. We must keep on going forward; there is no such thing in the Christian life as standing still, although plenty have sat.

The next three verses are what the social media post focused on. And the words can certainly be twisted to look like the writer is speaking of eternal security. If they’re taken out of context and no longer apart of the previous conversation above. 

Hebrews 6:4-6 — For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, and have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.

The writer doesn’t say “if they shall fall.” We’re all going to fall; for me it’s multiple times a day that I fail God. But the writer says “fall away.” Meaning, it’s impossible for the power of salvation to cease to have power over the child of God. Once you believe, you cannot un-believe. If so, you never truly believed to start with.  We all have time of a lack of faith. That is not failing to believe, that is humanity. Even John the Baptist asked Christ “Are You the One?”

Without the grace of God, none of us could ever over come the evil of this world. If the blood of Christ does not purge us from sin, what more can be done? But because of grace, we are saved. Forever and ever Amen. 

For further reference look at the verses that offer us the security of being a believer. 

John 10:28-29 KJV — And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. [29] My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.

John 3:3 — Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

John 10:29 — My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.

Romans 5:l — Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

Ephesians 4:30 — And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

Those are just a few of the many verses that officer us security in the belief that salvation is forever. 

It’s a funny thing about faith. I can be having an off day, where everything is going wrong and I hear “You’re not saved Shari, if you were your life wouldn’t be such a mess.” But then I take myself back to February 18th, 1996, the year I was saved, and show myself the real mess. And then I take myself to May 26th, 2018 when I faced open heart surgery with the sweetest peace imaginable and then I tell myself to shut up. 

Doubt will come. And so will eternity.