Tag: Word of God

Posted in Christian, Faith, Leadership

The Success of Silence

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Jesus calls us to His rest, and meekness is His method. The meek man cares not at all who is greater than he, for he has long ago decided that the esteem of the world is not worth the effort.
~A. W. Tozer

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Meekness

Numbers 12:3 KJV
(Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.)

Moses was likely the second greatest leader since the beginning of time, and God said of him that he was “very meek.” The world views meekness as a weak character trait. They want someone who is loud and confident, and it’s not to say that a bold person isn’t a great leader. But the point of the matter is, God does not view leadership in the same manner as man. We often view it from the flesh. God knows the heart, inner strength and depth of wisdom that goes far deeper than knowledge and confidence. Moses had a stuttering issue that convinced him that he wouldn’t be the best leader, but God proved to him that if He listened to God’s guidance he would be successful. Isn’t that a novel concept? Moses was not only the greatest leader on earth he was the meekest man on earth. I find that fascinating. I personally do not know very many meek leaders. I know a few… my Pastor for one. Moses led millions of people for four decades. They weren’t just blindly following him. They rebelled several times. But he never lost control. Isn’t that amazing? What about this meek man made people listen to him?

Don’t Undervalue the Meek

Psalm 22:26 KJV
The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the LORD that seek him: your heart shall live for ever.

Psalm 22 bears the prophetic words from Jesus on the cross. Psalm 22:1 KJV “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?”

The greatest leader of all time is of course Jesus. He who wrote the words of meekness and tells us the value of meekness. My Dad was a meek man. I never, not once, heard him raise his voice. He meekly lived his life, reading the word of God, teaching the word of God and didn’t argue; but rather knew what he believed, and allowed others to believe what they wanted to. I try to live that way, but I have a tendency to want to convince others that believe something else to change their viewpoint to mine. I don’t do it demanding, that is not my personality. But if you back me into a corner on what I believe, I can be loud. I don’t believe that Jesus, even being half man, would have succumbed to shouting if He was backed into any corner. When they threatened to throw Him over a cliff, He simply walked away. Oh to have such inner strength! I want to run my mouth, I always think that will make me feel better. It doesn’t. But it does let some pressure off the pop off valve inside me once in a while.

If meekness was also the character of God, should that not be our goal? Of course it should. And if we would ever reach that goal, two blessings would come from it…satisfaction and praise. Two valuable assets in life. To be in a state of being satisfied with where we are and so happy we’re praising the Lord! Yes, let it be so.

Don’t Mis-Understand Meekness

Psalm 25:9 KJV
The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.

A meek leader may not force their viewpoint upon you, they may allow you to continue in the way you were going until you fall flat on your face, but don’t view that as an error on their part. That’s what happens so often in this world of blame where anything that happens is “not our fault.” The left and the right have been playing the blame game rather than just stating what they’re for. A meek person stands for what they believe in. You will seldom, if ever hear a meek person putting the blame on another person for the struggles in life. They understand that things happen. They understand that this world is terribly broken. They understand that they’re not perfect and when they stand before Jesus, they alone will answer for their errors. Meek people don’t waste words, especially on those who won’t accept their advice.

The Holy Spirit is also meek. After all it is the third part of the Trinity. It’s not yelling at you when it says, “Don’t do that.” “Don’t say that.” “Don’t go there.” And then you do. And maybe you don’t but it’s like I almost feel the Holy Spirit roll His eyes inside of me. He doesn’t yell at that point either. He simply forgives me and together we move on. But I understand that it was me who messed up. I didn’t listen to His guidance. If I had just been meeker and went the direction I was being told, my life would have been better.

Today, as I begin Tuesday, August 20th, 2024… this very noisy person is a little quieter in my soul. I pray I continue that way… I understand that meekness doesn’t always make noise.

Posted in Life Inspiration

The Land of Good Intentions

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It’s where I live. It’s at the corner of Moral Highground and the Divided Highway. I’ve lived there my entire adult life. Always meaning to get something done, and too busy for my own (or anyone else’s) good. I get angry with myself, but to no avail. I just keep driving to that corner and either sitting on the porch, waiting for clear direction, or getting back on the road and driving in circles. Yes, that is very metaphoric writing. But I hope you get the point. If not I’ll try to explain it to you in a way that you’ll either understand, identify with, or you’ll determine I’m scatterbrained.

Moral Highground

I spend a lot of time there. Pondering life, wishing our world had taken God’s word serious. I believe every single word, jot and tittle in the Bible. I love reading, studying and hearing the word of God preached. I try very hard not to play church. But I can be just as guilty as the next person when it comes to not putting arms and legs to the body of Christ. From Sunday to Wednesday, and Wednesday to Sunday I will fail to speak with anyone about Christ in great detail, take care of the widows (with the exception of my mother) or do ministry work because I am so divided by life’s circumstances.

Married to the Master

Romans 7:4 KJV
Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.

In a few days, August 16th to be exact, David Johnson and I will have been married 44 years. It seems like yesterday that my skinny little body walked down the aisle to wed my one and only sweetheart since my junior year in high school. If I treated David, like I treat Christ, I doubt we’d have lasted 44 years. Scripture tells us that we are the bride of Christ. We are married to the Master. And someday we will live out that dream wedding that John saw in Revelation 21:2 ~ And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

But until then, I will fall short of what I should be as the Savior’s bride and servant of the Almighty God.

Every day my priority begins with bearing fruit for the Savior. But twenty minutes (if that) into my day, I am running down the Divided Highway in a dozen directions and getting nothing accomplished for Jesus. Distraction is Satan’s best tactic of causing a Christian to become ineffective. And an added bonus for him is to make us think we’re actually accomplishing something for God. But if I park my butt at the corner of Moral Highground, I have to confess that my accomplishments are always a work in progress. I’m gong to visit so and so, I’m going to call…I’m going to study more, read more of my Bible, do more ministry work, and the ideas will flow liberally into my mind where they stall, and never come to fruition.

Fruition. Fruit. I hadn’t seen that before. Man I’m slow!

Members in Particular

1 Corinthians 12:27-31 KJV
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. [28] And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. [29] Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? [30] Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? [31] But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

If today you and I wrote the following: My Particular Ministry is_____________________. What would it be? It’s not up for debate as to whether or not you have one. You do. God said so. This discussion doesn’t end at Chapter 12 with Apostle Paul. Chapter 13 is known at the “love chapter.” That is our primary responsibility; to love people into the Kingdom of God. To treat the world in such a way, they want to follow you home. Heaven help me if they do. It literally says “Welcome to the Chaos” on my house post.

But within that chaos is a family of 12. How blessed am I. My grandchildren are in constant need of something to eat, a ride to or from the school, help with a project, dog sitting, (I drew the line at snake sitting). That chaos is some of the greatest memories and times I have. It too is a part of my ministry. Noah made sure his eight were in the boat. But he didn’t stop ministering to the people, even while building the ark. Can you imagine the insanity around Noah’s loading of the ark, preparing for those 40 days, all while ministering to a world that would literally die around him when his job of building the ark was done. Well, we don’t have to worry about the critters, but we do have to worry about the people. We need to get them into the ark of the Covenant of God that He has promised to those who believe that He is the Way, the Truth and Life. When you look into the eyes of your friends, families and neighbors, you’re looking into an eternal being that will be somewhere when the end has come. Heaven or Hell. Both are very real addresses.

Measure of Stature

Ephesians 4:11-13 KJV
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; [12] For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: [13] Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

When we stand in Heaven, face to face with the Creator, it is then that we will have the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. We will be like Him. We’ll be given our eternal assignments! But not before we stand before the throne of God and answer for what we did with the time we were given. I preach it. I remind myself, and yet I feel like the biggest human failure on earth in the line of God’s children. Help me Lord to live today like Heaven just opened up and the ark was beginning to float.

Posted in Christian, Church attendance, Church Unity

The Un-Assembling of the Local Church

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On my many adventures out and about County and State, I pass by little country churches (and some relatively big churches) one after another of every denomination. There are some that you can tell from the appearance, someone is taking care of the physical property, leading you to believe that those in the interior on Sunday morning are taking care of the spiritual body. That’s not always the case. But as time passes, I notice far more churches (like myself) looking a little worn. Many are in severe disrepair because there is no longer a body of believers even assembling inside. At what point did they un-assemble? And why? Any number of reasons could be speculated but the most likely reason is their love of the world, outweighed their love for God.

If you’re out of church, you probably feel judged and will want to stop reading. Please don’t. This isn’t about me standing in judgement of those who don’t attend church. I could honestly speak just as negatively of those on the inside of the church who attend but don’t listen. We’re human. Sometimes humanity get’s the best of us. But let me give you three reasons why I believe you’re ready to reassemble.

  1. There’s a missing Peace and a missing Piece

There is a God sized hole in the soul of every human. If the Lord Jesus Christ is not in your life, you know you’re missing something. I know from experience. But, perhaps you’re saying, “Shari, we’re not the same.” No, but God is. And He created you with the desire to know Him. That’s the missing piece. And if you’ve ever truly known Him, when He is not a central part of your life you’re missing peace, and you know it’s gone.

John 14:23-31 KJV
Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. [24] He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me. [25] These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. [26] But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. [27] Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. [28] Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I. [29] And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe. [30] Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me. [31] But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

When I finally connected with Jesus in 1996 my life was a mess. I had no peace. I worried about everything, my life had very little meaningful purpose. I tried to fill it with community good, but I knew that it was just falling through the hole in my life. It added nothing of value to who I was. Both of my girls were young and I knew I was messing up their lives. They needed a foundation I could not provide.

But then I discovered who Jesus really was. Not the facts of Jesus, but the faith in Jesus. When the Holy Spirit came into my heart I knew it! It was very real and the most amazing event in my life. I had peace. I had purpose. If you’re currently not experiencing that, you’re ready to re-assemble.

2. There’s Trouble and There’s Fear

Jesus said Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. If you’re not troubled and fearful in this world, you’re not paying attention! I certainly have moments of serious concern. But understanding the Word of God and being taught by worthy leaders is an important part of every week for me. It secures my faith in the fact that the children of God are going to be okay. And the fact that we need to know we are the children of God and that our family is saved. That is where the security of the believer comes in and when Satan tries to create fear and anxiety in your life you can point him to the word of God and he will flee. His days are numbered!

But without the church, it is very difficult to stay inline with scripture. Not impossible, but far harder than it needs to be. We need to study on our own, but we need church leaders in our lives that we can trust to share what the Lord speaks to them, and how He is working in their life. Then when that trouble and fear begins to rear its ugly head, we’re not alone. Satan loves it when you don’t have anyone you can trust.

3. Satan is Very Real

Jesus said “for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.” That prince is Satan. He is the prince of this world and the fallen angels from Heaven are wreaking havoc in everyone’s life. The demonic forces have taken over the television, the computer, the music industry. You can’t escape the evil anymore. It’s every where. It takes its toll on us. The shows and movies are filled with killing, broken families and violence, and so is society. I’ve never seen a time in my life where people accept evil as the norm. But that’s how it is. What causes me nightmares, children view in a video game and become the character. That’s scary stuff! How will that affect them as adults? I think that’s what we’re seeing with so many children being abused and killed, even by their parents. It’s unfathomable to understand how such things can happen unless you see Satan for what he is. Evil and powerful.

He is not more powerful than God, but Jesus just told us that Satan is the prince of this world. Meaning he does have power. Until Jesus returns! Then his power is done. But so is the opportunity to get your life right with God.

If these thoughts are weighing on your mind. It’s time to do something about it. I pray that you will find a spirit filled church with a God lead pastor and join up! It won’t be perfect. Satan will make sure you see the flaws. But look for the good work God is doing and then become a part of that. The flaws will fade into the background and be drowned out by your peace, your purpose and your people! Everyone needs people.

Love ya! Shari, the Jesus Chick

Posted in Faith, Family, Life Inspiration

Don’t Waste a Minute of Life

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I heard the phrase “haste makes waste” my entire life, but I never gave it any thought as to where it originated. It did not suprise me to realize that it was from scripture. What did surprise me was the way that God drew in my mind to my time with Him. 

Proverbs 19:2 KJV
Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.

I waste so much time in the course of a day. My mind is continually laboring, never shutting down until I lay down at night and sometimes not even then. I use lavendar oil on my pulse points at night to help calm my mind, when I’m sure scripture would likely do the same or better. 

This morning as I prepared for my day, my mind at 5:30 a.m. was already going full throttle. I scrolled social meeting for a few minutes and then turned to the word in hopes of creating a calm before the storm of the day. That’s when I discovered the “haste makes waste” verse. My immediate thought went to how rushing through my day without God is such a waste of my time. It always goes so much smoother when I take the time to be in God’s word at the beginning of my day. It reminded me of Mary and Martha. 

Luke 10:38-42 KJV
Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman Martha received him into her house. [39] And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. [40] But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. [41] And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: [42] But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

I love to imagine that I am Mary, sitting at the feet of Jesus and soaking in His every word. When in reality I am Martha the vast majority of the time, rushing about, Catching a few of my Father’s words as I run past Him to do the next “productive” thing, when I’d be a lot more productive if I just sit down and rest in Him for a minute. 

As we go into another Father’s day, I reflect on the wonderful earthly father that I had. My memories of him sitting with the word of God on his lap and a cup of coffee fill my heart with joy. He loved talking about Jesus. I miss him. My mother misses him. Seldom a day goes by that she doesn’t tell me as much and how she longs to see him again. She will, she too knows and loves Jesus. 

It seems like yesterday that I was a miserable 20 years old. I didn’t know God then, not until I was 34 years of age. It was then that I experienced true peace. I understood why my father sat with the word of God on his lap every day and why he loved to talk about Jesus. I watched as he aged and his heart grew so tender causing his eyes to leak every time he talked about God. Time passes so fast. I cannot believe that I’m nearly 62. On the verge of getting mailbox money (social security) and yet I’ve still not learned that I need to slow down.

Haste makes waste. It certainly does. Rushing around costs me the peace that God affords every one of His children. 

I hope today that we’ll all sit at the Father’s feet in worship like Mary. I hope to leave Martha in the kitchen, and just sit on the porch with my Heavenly Father… I’ll ask Him to tell my Dad hello, and a few other friends and family too. I believe He will. Happy Father’s Day…

Posted in Faith, Forgiveness, Grace, Life Inspiration, Life's Failures, testimony, Word of God

Sarcasm and Christianity, a Woodshed Moment

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I have so many question as I sit struggling at 2 a.m. to figure out what is “acceptable” behavior as a child of God in these political times. There are lines in the sand I have always tried never to cross. I don’t bring politics inside the church. Period. The church is a place that I go to worship God and learn His word with likeminded believers. The past few years have not been easy, but by comparison to my friend Peter Mwangani in Kenya, I have no right to say that I have a hard life. Nobody has stoned me. Yet. They did Peter.

I’ve been Publisher of the Ridgeview News for three very short, wonderful years. I have struggled to find my place, and then in the midst of that my world got turned upside down in a few different ways. The last few months have been difficult. I need to readjust my life to fit all the things in and in their proper perspective. I feel called to the roll of Ridgeview News, but I was certainly not uncalled from the roll of The Jesus Chick. And then there is the roll as Wife, Mother, daughter and friend. All of which I know I have failed miserably at because I’m such a chaotic personality. Throw into that mix a very passionate, sometimes flippant attitude, God and I have woodshed moments followed by discussions about allowing myself grace to be human.

I have throughout my life used sarcasm and wit to deal with hard truths. My own truth and that of other people. I read a writer recently that zinged me a little when she said that being being snarky is “nothing but fancy-schmancy passive-aggressiveness, that leads to bitterness, anger, and unresolved conflict.”  I can’t disagree. 

But what if I mean it? Did Jesus never get frustrated with people? I have a hard time understanding how to put the pettiness of life’s problems into the perspective of the cross. I feel that I should rise above it, move on, and focus on leading lost souls to Christ. That is why Christ died that gruesome, horrible death. And then I think about how God put us in this world to live. Not to sit idly by as “Sister Susie being Saintly in the Sanctuary.” But to live in a community and take care of it. And it is there that cause the tears to flow, my heart to ache, and the feelings of failure to come.

Love is Kind. Sometimes I am Not. 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 

4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

Love is patient and kind. In some cases, love may require me to flee the temptation to be sarcastic and snarky: 

1 Timothy 6:11-12 KJV

But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. [12] Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

That’s the problem for me. In this social society, there are countless witnesses to our behaviors through social media. Some would say that Christians should have no part in it. I get that theory, except that it leaves the whole thing wide open for the Devil’s playground. I occasionally get in a big way of talking and forget that when I shoot an arrow, the target is a person. I guess there is a feeling of justification in the flesh. After all, I am on the side of right. Right? Jesus was always 100% right. I am not. And the thing about an arrow, is once it’s shot. You can’t take it back. 

Love Doesn’t Vaunt. I Try Not to.

I knew that when I began the Ridgeview News I would be making myself a target. I was fine with that. Nobody likes to be called out. I sure don’t. It automatically puts me in a position of defense. I understand that when I publish the issues of someone else’s life, especially mistakes that have been made, it’s not going to win me popularity. I could easily justify it by saying that they should have known when they did what they did, or put themselves in a position of power that they would be held accountable for their decisions. So will I when I stand before Almighty God. I know that, and it scares me.

To vaunt is to boast and brag excessively. That is not my style. I detest arrogance. I don’t feel good about calling someone out. Not an enemy and for certain not a friend. I have had to do both. 

When you understand that you are a sinner always in need of grace, it’s hard to publish the sins of another without guilt. 

Some have said, “Then don’t.” The problem with that is the community needs to be aware of what’s going on around them that effects them. I’m not publishing private sins, I’m publishing public matters that effect other people. When you’re covering the news, it’s often in the heat of the moment. I try my very best to stay impartial. I want only to print the truth and leave my emotions out, I can’t say I’m successful at that. Emotion won’t change the truth, but it sometimes magnifies the negative and may cause people to view me as feeling above the offender. If only they knew the inner turmoil I have with that. Airing dirty laundry isn’t fun. It literally stinks. I’m not writing a gossip column. I’m trying to provide the truth so the citizens of my community can make informed decisions. For too long, and I mean decades, our community has ignored the decision makers and allowed everything to be unchecked. The cost of that has been poverty, feelings of hopelessness, and an inability to stand up for their rights.

Psalm 19:14

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.

Love Doesn’t Misbehave. I Do.

If you haven’t figured it out yet, I’m working my way through my issues. Writing is the only way I seem to accomplish that. It’s a conversation between me and Jesus. It causes me to seek the only solid truth, the Word of God.

Paul told the Corinthians not to behave unseemly. Commentary said this was through using either unbecoming words, or doing indecent actions; for a man unprincipled with this grace will be careful that no filthy and corrupt communication proceed out of his mouth, which may offend pious ears; and that he uses no ridiculous and ludicrous gestures, which may expose himself and grieve the saints;

My greatest fear is offending God. But I know that’s what I’ll do if I “offend the little ones.” 

Matthew 18:3-6 KJV

And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. [4] Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. [5] And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. [6] But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

The little ones doesn’t mean children. But rather speaks of the humility of those who serve God. The last thing I would ever want to do is to hurt a fellow soldier in Christ. My friend D.L. used to say, “Christians are the only army that shoots their own soldiers.” It’s the truth.

My closing questions for myself are this:

  1. Who are the little children in my story?
  2. Who’s the victim?
  3. Would Jesus handle things the way I do?
  4. How can I do better for the cause of Christ?

There is no sin by any man (or woman) that can be justified. None. Even when you feel you’re in the right. I go back to the comment that zinged me: being snarky is “nothing but fancy-schmancy passive-aggressiveness, that leads to bitterness, anger, and unresolved conflict.” 

After yet another “Come to Jesus” moment that I have experienced, I determined this about snarky comments. They’re ungodly and wrong. It’s me in the flesh and I should not be. But it doesn’t change the truth. 

Posted in Family, Life Inspiration, Word of God

Deception is All Around Us, Walk in Awareness

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Deception is All Around Us, Walk in Awareness

I will tell you without hesitation that I am a gullible soul. I love people. In general most all people. But there are some people that I struggle to love. I love them in Christ; meaning I want to see them saved. But I won’t tell you that I have a love for them in the flesh. I have to talk to Jesus first, and then I can love them.

And there are some people that God’s guidance is needed for discernment in what my attitude and action should be. Not that He would ever tell me not to love someone, but God has zero tolerance for evil and He expect the same from His children.

Today I found myself unaware that evil had been lurking around me and I had been rubbing elbows with it. Not as friends, but as acquaintances. This person gave the impression that they were a believer, and I assumed a believer of Christ. Because that’s where my mind goes when someone says believer. Even though I cannot honestly say this person uttered those words. It was again, an assumption on my part. When I discovered today through another friend that this person in question was involved in actual witchcraft and demonic forces, I was physically sick.

But this is when the flesh kicked into high gear and I had to have a little talk with Jesus. I had to remind myself that pre salvation I wouldn’t have given the antics of this person a second thought. But now, with the Spirit of God dwelling within me, I see the evil for what it is.

I had initially planned on writing today about the “spirit and power of confession.” Confession is good for the soul. It’s a very humbling experience to let someone know that you’ve failed. It’s also good for a new Christian to understand that getting saved doesn’t make you a perfect person, it makes you a forgiven person and one that should feel guilt in knowing they’ve offended God with their sin. The same Spirit that convicts my soul of sin, impresses upon my heart, provides me spiritual discernment when something around me is wrong. And there had been warnings on this person that I chose to ignore.

For Truth’s Sake

2 John 1:1-13 KJV
The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth; [2] For the truth’s sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever. [3] Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love. [4] I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.

John’s letter to this elect lady, who was a believer as well as her children, gives mention of truth three times in the first sentence. It’s an important factor in the life of a child of God that you know the truth of the Gospel and will have the tri-fold blessing of grace, mercy and peace. Without knowing the truth none of those will be present in your life. But even with the presence of Jesus Christ in your life, like myself, it doesn’t preven you from being deceived if you’re not on guard.

For Deceptions Signal

[5] And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another. [6] And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. [7] For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.

Antichrist. That’s a pretty harsh title. It’s not speaking of “the Antichrist” which is to come in end times. But the presence of someone or something that is against Christ. The person for which I speak, on the surface, appears to be someone of “decent” moral fibers. I couldn’t even write that without nausea in knowing that by saying decent, I mean, I don’t believe this person would should you in the back. I even have to remind myself that this same person sold me out when I asked friends for prayer against a woman who was attacking me, and this person went and told the woman I what I had done. Yes… I’m an idiot far more often than I like to confess. But I’m glad that God made me someone who gives people the benefit of a doubt, even if it sometimes bites me in the butt.

John told the lady that we need to love people, but not to the point of deception. The Spirit of God allows us the ability to feel the presence of evil and be warned that deception lingers near. But like myself we can choose to ignore it. What then?

For Your Family’s Sake

[8] Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. [9] Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. [10] If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: [11] For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. [12] Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. [13] The children of thy elect sister greet thee. Amen.

John warns this lady that she should have nothing to do with a person who does not abide, meaning to dwell in, the Lord Jesus Christ. If they’re not for Him, they’re against Him. Makes good sense, right? Until you throw my upbringing into it which believes everyone has good intentions. That is far from the case. When I delved into the background of this person in question, they not only did not promote Christ, they promoted satanic belief through conjuring dead spirits and other wicked endeavors. That person was put into a short lived position of authority and access to the minds of many people. Praise God and and by His mercy it didn’t work out and access was cut off.

I said all that to say this. We have got to become more aware of the evil that abounds and the danger that lurks in our neighborhoods. Which means through person to person and media methods. While I understand that adults can be deceived, I don’t worry as much about them as do the vulnerability of our youth. These same evil spirits were around in John’s day. No doubt why he was so happy that this lady’s children also walked in the truth. We are a nation that have basically parked our kids on the porch with a handheld window to the world and no barriers from people like this accessing their minds. So before you think, “I don’t live any where close you.” You don’t have to. That is one thing that has definitely changed since John’s day. They only had to worry about the neighborhood. We have to worry about the world.

Please safeguard your mind, your home and your heart from the evils of this world. And above all stay in the word of God.

Posted in Christian, Grace, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Word of God

How to Find Contentment

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on How to Find Contentment

It was on the front of the church bulletin last week; those words from Paul stating that He had learned, whatsoever state he was in, therewith to be content. I have moments of contentment, about twenty minutes on a good day. And then I see something shiny and my contentment is fleeting. Am I alone with that line of thought? Do you, like myself, desire the things of this world far more than you should? It’s been on my mind a lot lately. I am still soaking in the revival from a few weeks ago, grateful for the word of the Lord that stirs the fires of my soul, but then aggravated in the same breath at the flesh that arises so often!

In the book of James 1:1-12 it says

James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. [2] My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [3] Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. [4] But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

While it’s important to note that James is the brother of Jesus, the son of Mary and Joseph, and he is writing a letter to the Jews, but it does not lessen the directive in it to the children of God who are Gentiles. It’s a good word (as all of the Bible is) for us all. And this morning it fell harder on my heart as those words pierced my soul, knowing that my flesh is every bit as alive as the Spirit in me and is warring daily in my life to take my mind off the things it should be on. James was obviously not a stranger to it either, but James didn’t have the internet! James didn’t have Temu ads popping up in his face every ten minutes with shiny things or a mega sale going on out the road with a five dollar bag that you can fill to the brim with goodies that you have no need for, but it’s really cool stuff, and it’s a whole bag for five dollars! Where’s your sense of shopping adventure.

Where’s that church bulletin, I need to find it!

I said all that to help you understand my state of mind. I really am learning contentment. But it’s a struggle, because it’s deeper rooted in misguided priorities which I fear is the problem that many face. It can become very guided in a moment of time when the news of a tragedy or heartache comes and you know that it is the most important thing in your life at that time, but then it passes, and the flesh rears its ugly head again and again and we’re no longer content … we want stuff. So James wrote us this word to remind us that we’re all going to fall into various temptations, but we’re suppose to count it as joy. And by temptations, those are not the temptations of a shopping spree, but the lure of Satan to pursuade you to follow the worldly ideas around you and not the Lord Jesus Christ. The idea that another way is better, or another thing will make you happy. It’s why He took Jesus up on the mountain and tempted Him forty days with the things that the world had to offer. Only Satan’s misguided sense of direction caused him to think that he had a power above Christ. He does not. Nor does he have that power in us if we will take back what God instilled in us through the Holy Spirit.

James goes on to say

[5] If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. [6] But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

Is it not a lack of wisdom, the wisdom of the Word of God, that causes me to want? You bet! Funny thing, when I’m reading the word of God, I want nothing, except more of the word of God. Because it fills every void in my life. And James reminded me this morning that God laid it out before me in a way that James and his friends never experienced it. The word is on my phone, my iPad, my computer, in my hand through dozens of bibles in my office, waiting for me to search the Word of God. But temptations come that distract my mind and heart causing me to waver just like that boat tossed to and fro on the sea.

The next words of James made my stomach roll like it had been tossed on a wave when he said:

[7] For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.

Even in my weakened state of want in this world, I know in my heart that what the Lord offers is far greater than any material thing I could desire here on earth. And the thought of not receiving what the Lord has to offer, because I am too unstable in my ways, makes me even more sea sick! God wants to give His children wonderful things. Not material things, but spiritual things that cannot be taken and the payment has already been made. I have never experienced anything in the world that has brought as much joy to my soul as the love of Jesus Christ. Him loving me and providing me a peace that cannot be purchased, a love that is not mail order and a contentment that I could just sit on the porch and watch creation like I’d just unwrapped the neatest toy on the market! God created that for me! He gave me people to love, what an amazing gift! A gift that gives back to me in massive quantities every time I hear one of my grandchildren say “I love you Noni.” Which is most every day.

[8] A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. [9] Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: [10] But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. [11] For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways. [12] Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

There is reward here, but there is certainly a reward in Heaven awaiting those who are faithful!!! Help me Lord to be faithful so that I may lay that crown at Your feet.👣

Posted in Family, Heaven, Life Inspiration, salvation

The Gate, The Trees and the House – What address do they lead to?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion 2 Comments on The Gate, The Trees and the House – What address do they lead to?

Sunday mornings are the most exciting day of my week. Going to church and studying the word of God puts fuel in the fire of my soul! Fellowship with the believers is unlike any earthly relationship. My two youngest grandsons attend church with me and they have dozens of questions and often some very strange commentary on their lives as new members of the body of Christ. The boys, ages 9 and 10, gave their life to Christ this year and were baptized. I pray the zeal they currently have never dies down. It hasn’t in my life, although there have been times that struggled to keep the fire lit. So I “somewhat” get it when I meet with people who say they’re Christian, but there’s no joy or evidence of Christ working in their lives. But it causes me great angst (and not just a little bit) I mean GREAT ANGST when those people are family and friends.

Salvation is a very personal event. It’s different for everyone. But the one thing that is undeniable with salvation is that there is a change in a person’s life. That’s what causes me angst. I know many, many people who never darken the door of a church house, never crack open the word of God, never bow their head in prayer unless they’re in trouble and they know nothing about an actual relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. 

If that’s you… you scare me.

Matthew 7:13-14

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

If I quote a verse like that to someone who appears to be out of the loop with Jesus, they’re either offended, or assume it can’t mean them, because they’re “fine.” And I want to believe they’re fine, that way I can sleep easier. But I can’t… Because I believe that true salvation brings a change in a person’s life that is undeniably evident.

And so I read further to determine what God meant in the book of Matthew 7

The heading in my Ryrie study Bible says that this part of Matthew 7, verses 13 through 29 is “The Proof of the Kingdom Life.” Those who are saved are members of the Kingdom of God, so proof of the Kingdom life should be easy enough to find in them, right?

  • Two Gates
  • Two Trees
  • Two Builders
  • One soul
  • One decision

The outline of this scripture should allow the believer to look at their life and determine if they’re okay.

Matthew 7:13-29 KJV

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [14] Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. [15] Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. [16] Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? [17] Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. [18] A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. [19] Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. [20] Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. [21] Not every one 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. [22] Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? [23] And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. [24] Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: [25] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. [26] And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: [27] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. [28] And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: [29] For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

Two Gates

These are the words of Jesus as He preaches His gospel. He, who is the determining factor of your salvation. Should we not look earnestly at his Word? In Sunday School yesterday, I learned something new about the word earnest. That it could be used in defining the serious of a commitment such as the purchasing of a car. Earnest would refer to the down payment. Meaning that you’re serious about that new ride! How serious are you about eternity? When Jesus mentioned the two gates He said one was broad and one was narrow. One, many would choose, and one, there would be few. More reason for more angst! A commitment to God is more than the average decisions of every day life. When I think about how quickly I reached the age of 61, I’m shocked. I am so happy that I have the promise of eternity. It won’t go nearly so fast! And once I’m there, I’ll no longer lose anyone. I won’t have angst. Nothing but sweet peace in the presence of my Savior. But I am concerned about the decision makers on this earth that I call family and friends. Which gate have you chosen?

Two Trees

The proof in the puddin’ as they say. Jesus tells the story of two trees that have the ability to bear fruit. One has good fruit, and one has rotten fruit. So he rids himself of the rotten fruit by throwing the tree into the fire. Wait! Jesus throws out the whole tree? Yes. Just as He does the whole body of a nonbeliever. Not because He doesn’t want them in Kingdom, but because they’re unfruitful. How on earth can a Holy, perfect God, allow people in Heaven that have refused to acknowledge and participate in His earthly Kingdom activities. If you had a child that you had given life to, raised with every good opportunity, and they cast it off, lived a life of rebellion, never darkening the doorstep of your home or having a conversation with you, would you give them a mansion? The problem is, people don’t see their non fruit bearing life as rebellion against God, but it is. He died for you. Can you not see the need to live for Him?

Two Builders

Again Jesus offers a parable to help the reader understand. There are two people building houses… one on the sand, one on the rock. The constant shifting of the sand beneath your feet when you walk along the shore gives a good indication of what’s going to happen when a storm comes in. But the house on the Rock is safe! That Rock is Jesus Christ. He has built us a home, and is waiting to hand us the keys in a place that there will never again be any shifting sand or storms of life. All we have to do is accept the fact that He paid the full price of our eternal life on the cross. That’s all that is required for salvation. But the belief and understanding in the cost He paid should cause narrow mindedness in a good sense, in that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and no man will come to the Father, except through Him. One gate, One decision.

When that decision is made, there should be fruit in your life by your service to God. Are you serving Him today? If not, why?

Are you the foolish or wise builder? Are you pouring yourself into this temporary life, when the eternal one is the only one that offers hope? When you’re gone will your family have the proof of your new address?

Please God, if you are not certain. Message me today. Let’s get your keys in hand!!

Posted in Christian Service, Word of God

Legalism, Liberalism and the Love of Jesus

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion 3 Comments on Legalism, Liberalism and the Love of Jesus

In 26 years of salvation, I’ve been introduced to them all. Praise God for the latter that offers grace in abundance in these confusing times. Let me begin by doing my best to define what these words mean to me. Legalism is the unnecessary addition of unmentioned works into the Word of God, and over attentiveness to the behaviors of others that distort the true nature of Christianity and make grace secondary and almost leaves mercy out of the equation.

Liberalism on the other hand is based on the argument that there is an individual right of a person to life, liberty and property, with circumstantial ethics and scripture viewed as negotiable. It was present in the garden when Satan asked Eve, “Did God say?” That’s what liberalism does in the face of homosexuality, gender dysphoria, witchcraft and everything else from A to Z in this sinful world. They will question “Did God say?” And then add to it how that doesn’t apply to them and in the end justify it to a lost and dying world.

But that’s not the end. We will all stand accountable in the end, before a Holy God to determine whether or not we have the right to be in Heaven. Which is by the blood of Jesus, alone. So, will there be legalist and liberals in Heaven. Yes, but they’re going to live on the outskirts of town. I’m Kidding! Well, kind of.

I don’t know how God will determine who does what in Heaven. But I know He knows. He gave us clues in the Word of God when He said in

1 Corinthians 3:13-16 KJV
Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. [14] If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. [15] If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. [16] Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

You can’t say that work is not important to God. There it is in black and white, but note that God said that they’d be saved; meaning, those who confess that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, was crucified and died for their sin. If they believe in their heart that He is Lord, and that He died to cover their sins, they’re saved. The heart is the determining factor, not the works. But for the works that a person has done on earth with a good heart and intent, there is a reward.

2 Corinthians 5:8-14 KJV
We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. [9] Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. [10] For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. [11] Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences. [12] For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. [13] For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause. [14] For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:

The Lord drew my heart into His words this morning in verse 12 that said “that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.” Works was never intended to be apart of salvation. From the garden, blood covered sin when God killed the lamb to clothe Adam and Eve, and it continued to be the blood when men would sacrifice unto God. But when Jesus made that final sacrifice, man’s role in the story of salvation was done. Not that it ever really paid a part in it, because what man did with the blood sacrifice still pointed to the cross. Jesus said “It is finished.” And it was. So why is it that those of a legalistic mindset proclaim their holiness because of their suit jacket and hair cut? It’s as utterly ridiculous as it is for the liberal to say that they are free to live their lives against scripture and think that they’ll not stand before that holy throne accountable. We’re all accountable!

So how do the legalistic and the liberals ignore the word of God or add unmentioned works into scripture? They’re glorying in appearance (earthly appearance). If you’re so concerned with what someone’s wearing to church that it effects your opinion of their spiritual state, you’re forgetting that their spiritual state is between them and God and you’re not privy to it. If you’re a liberal and you’re saying the word of God is antiquated or not relevant to today’s standards, you’re dead wrong and when you’re dead you’ll stand before God and answer for it. And then He’ll give you your mansion in the outback of Heaven. (Joking! Kind of)

Paul told the Corinthians that they (the disciples of Christ) were setting themselves as an example for other Christians to look to as to how you should live. A child of God should be an example to the world. But not to say “Look at me, you should want to be like me.” But to use their life to point people to Christ. Christ, Who called sin out and never made light of it. Christ who set in the midst of sinners and loved them like true friends. He had the right to judge them, but He chose rather to show mercy, love and compassion to the point that the people wanted to know Him.

Is that how we’re living our lives? If we’re not, then we’re wrong. No one will see Christ in legalism. They’ll not see Christ in the lives of people who justify sin. We, like Him, must love them into the Kingdom.

Posted in Life Inspiration

And She Still Messed Up!

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on And She Still Messed Up!

Have you ever thought of God’s creation of mankind. When on the 6th day, after He had spoken the world into existence, He then decided to mix up some clay and mold man in His own image. It says Male and Female created He them. As an artist I can’t help but thinking of it from that perspective. If God spoke the world into existence, He could have just as well spoken man into being. But He rather took the time to create and mold man into His own image. God cares about every detail of us.

I am so critical of myself and have been since I was a small child. I never thought I measured up to any other girl. Everyone was prettier, more talented, bigger, better, brighter, all the stuff. And I still struggle with it to a certain degree because the world sets the stage for comparison.

But even without the world, Eve was placed with the temptation of comparison when Satan showed her the fruit and began placing doubts in her mind. “Did God say…?” and then Eve added to it when she said “God told us not to eat it or even touch it!” Well that wasn’t true. God didn’t tell them not to touch it.

What Eve lacked was the knowledge and confidence of having the word of God in her heart. She knew God had said don’t eat of the fruit, she remembered that. But then she added her own little twist, causing herself to think it was the word of God when she added that God told them not to touch it. It’s not that it really added anything to the conversation, except to cause her uncertainty and make her vulnerable to the Devil’s lies.

I doubt there was ever a time when man (and woman) had more wisdom than at the beginning of Creation.  As I was studying creation, I loved where the word said that God would create the animals and then bring them to Adam to name.

Genesis 2:19 KJV

And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof.

It shows the depth of knowledge that Adam had to be able to name and remember the name of every critter. But scripture doesn’t really say anything about the mind of Eve and I think we view her as kind of a dimwitted broad that got fooled by the Devil, when that wasn’t true.  God made both she and Adam in His image and put within them great minds. It’s there to show us that even at our best we are vulnerable to the devils lies.

Let’s talk about

The Wisdom of the Woman

 Proverbs 3:13-23 KJV

[13] Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. [14] For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. [15] She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. [16] Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. [17] Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. [18] She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.

Don’t you find it interesting that God called wisdom “she.”

·   She is more precious than rubies

·      All the things thou canst desire are not to be compared to her

·      Length of days is in her right hand

·      In her left hand riches and honor

·      Her ways are ways of pleasantness

·      Her paths are peace

·      She is a tree of life

·      Happy is everyone that retaineth her

When I got to the words “She is a tree of life” I did a double take! I stumbled upon that little tidbit of wisdom in the word that I had never given any thought. The very thing that Eve had cost man was the Tree of life, but in Proverbs God has Solomon write that wisdom is the tree of life and it’s a “she.”

I don’t want to read something into the word of God that’s not there, but God said wisdom was female. I also don’t want to put a lot of emphasis on it because the world has already done that when it caused all the animosity between man and woman by women not being in submission as God intended them to be as the weaker vessel.

He didn’t do that because our minds were weaker, but because our bodies were weaker. God intended man to be our protector. Our minds are an open book to God’s library of thoughts, but we choose to stay busy and not tap into it.

I was elated when this scripture took me back to the time of Creation:

 [19] The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. [20] By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew. [21] My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion: [22] So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck. [23] Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.

Eve didn’t stumble because she didn’t have the access to wisdom, she stumbled because she didn’t access it before the Devil got in her head.

The Work of  the Woman

When God created Eve she had purpose. That purpose was to help Adam.

This really threw me into a tailspin, because I don’t always view myself as a help meet for David but rather a doer of dishes and laundry. And that’s certainly part of it for me, but God created me to help David meet his responsibilities. Adam is missing a piece of his side, because God created Eve out of it. To walk beside him, work beside and be beside him in thick and in thin. Eve was to support her man. That is an important job that women take for granted.

It gave me a new perspective on housework. Which I hate. But David likes order. I am queen of chaos. I need to do more to make sure he has order in his life so that he can be productive at what he does. In turn, it could possibly make me more productive too if I’m honest.

I spend half my time looking for stuff.

We take our role in the lives of our family too lightly. We have an example to set of what God wanted women to know.

He wanted us to be wise and He did not want us to compare ourselves to each other! We are to desire wisdom because nothing can be compared to “her.” I get such joy out of studying the word of God and yet I don’t spend near enough time in it because my life is so chaotic and if I’m painstakingly honest, I have a rebellious heart that would rather do other stuff.

The Ways of the Woman

·      Her ways are ways of pleasantness

·      Her paths are peace

·      She is a tree of life

·      Happy is everyone that retaineth her

Scripture says if we walk in wisdom our ways will be pleasant, full of peace, be a tree of life and lead to happiness.

Does that not make you want to get in the word and stay in the word?

LuAnn has taught me so much with that. She is a deep studier of the word. She cross references the word so many times during a study that she knows every nook and cranny of how the puzzles of scripture fit together. I blame my ADD because I cannot stay focused, but it still may be my rebellious spirit.

I don’t think I have to tell you that there is a difference in the ways of men and the ways of women. But what were the differences between Adam and Eve. God gave them minds of their own because Adam blamed Eve and Eve blamed the Devil. Neither took responsibility for their fall.

I don’t know if you’re any different but I know I’m not. I’m fat because food is good. Not because I have no will power.  Eve fell because Satan tempted her, not because she didn’t listen tow what God said or understand the seriousness of that piece of fruit. If she had tapped into what God wanted them to understand her life would have been pleasant, filled with peace for eternity and she would be happy. Is that not our goal?

Praise God we’re afforded that again through Jesus Christ. Not in the perfect sense that Eve would have experienced it, but in bits and pieces now and eternally through the ages to come.   But in order to get to that place in our lives we have to do some of the things that Eve did not.

We have got to stay in the Word and study it for ourselves, not just depend on the preacher to tell us what it says. That’s good, we need that, but it’s not enough. I’ve heard it said that Adam let Eve down by not making sure she understood, but I’m not so sure that was the case. He was willing to take the fall, but I don’t believe that Eve’s mind was lacking. I think maybe her attention span was lacking, but that may have not been the case either. My mind is often messed up because I’m over stimulated with coffee, drained from over working or just too many irons in the fire. Eve did not have that. They lived in a perfect world, and yet she still messed up.

When it comes to playing the comparison game, she had nobody to compare herself to. She was to set the standard. And she still messed up.

I think that is the greatest lesson to be learned from Eve, that the evil of this world is too much to handle on our own. We need each other and we above all need Jesus Christ and His word to guide us.

This study was from The Jesus Chick’s session during an Appalachian Heart Ministries event.