Tag: Word of God

Posted in Bible Journaling

A Message from a Dirt Dog

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on A Message from a Dirt Dog

I have to remind myself on a pretty regular basis that I’m a dirt dog. (Matthew 15:26-27). Lest I become like the frozen chosen and think that I am “holy.” Make sure you put the emphasis on the “o” when you say that, because that’s how people who put themselves above others say it. Or at least in my mind they do.

If I permit myself to get in the flesh, I begin to judge those I’m frustrated with, rather than remembering why I am frustrated and who I’m frustrated for. It ain’t me. Well, maybe it is a little.

John the Revelator. Banished to the isle of Patmos (Revelation 1:9) because they wanted to get rid of the troublemaker. This seams to be a theme in my world right now both in the secular and the religious sense. Both, because I let what’s in my heart roll out of my mouth without regard for who it may offend. And then I get offended because they’re offended. It’s a vicious cycle. I guess it’s true that the only thing that has changed with human nature is the time stamp for when it happened and what people are wearing.

Take a look at what John wrote to the church at Ephesus:

Revelation 2:1-7 KJVS
Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; [2] I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: [3] And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. [4] Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. [5] Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. [6] But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. [7] He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

There was works

John tells the church that he knew they’d been busy doing stuff. It was just that their “stuff” was of no effect on the world around them for eternity. This is where I have to be careful about throwing rocks. Because it’s been a while since I’ve won a soul to Christ too. I’m as fed up with myself as I am others. But I won’t let that deter me from stirring the waters that need to be stirred. Because in so doing, perhaps I’ll kick myself into gear.

There was patience

Patience is something I am very accustomed to. I have the patience of Job… at times. And then other times I want what I want when I want it. And I usually wanted it yesterday.

Commentator John Gill said of their patience “ This may refer to the ministers of the word, it may denote their patience in suffering reproaches and persecutions for the sake of the Gospel, which they bore patiently, cheerfully, and constantly; and in bearing the infirmities of weak saints, in their several communities; and in reclaiming and restoring persons out of the way; and in waiting for the success of their ministry, and their continuance and perseverance in it.

All noble characteristics. But there are times when patience should go out the window. Like when we are staring eternity in the face! I have lost my patience with vain, callous Christians who show up on Sunday morning and think their work is done. Those that think that knowing stuff is better than doing stuff. What good is it if it’s not put into practice?

There was Separation

Another wonderful character trait of the church, as long as you’re separated from the evil people. But when you are so far separated from the people of God and those who need God that you don’t understand what they’re in need of, you’ve gone too far.

A friend of mine mentioned cliques yesterday. I have always been the person “out of the clique.” I like it that way. Because that means nobody would ever think of me as unapproachable. I love saints and sinners because the conversations are always varying and they can always lead to Jesus if you’re in the right mindset. Sinners don’t mind talking about Jesus so long as the conversation is relatable. Don’t talk church, talk Jesus. Jesus will hopefully one day lead them to church, but they need to understand that they’re technically talking to the church, which is me. I love Saints who love to talk Jesus outside the church! I love it when a conversation leads to a scripture and you’re just blessed all over because God loves it when His children converse about Him.

I have a feeling that John was telling the Church of Ephesus, “Hey you’re doing good inside the church. But you’ve forgotten that you were called to work outside the church.

There was Resilience

I have always been one of the biggest cheerleaders of the church. But I’m telling you flat footed and eye to eye, my resilience had gotten almost transparent it was so thin. Resilience will only show itself in the battle. How else can it be seen unless it’s showing itself to be true. The church can only be resilient if they have soldiers in the battle. If their soldiers are back at the fort patting each other on the back and telling them how wonderful they are, who’s fighting the war?

I just made myself sick.

I’ve been on the verge of walking out of the fort, but not to the battle field. Just out… away from those who like to know stuff but don’t like to do stuff.

John closes that letter with this: “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.“

I heard a preacher say not too long ago that the “Spirit of God wasn’t that voice in the back of your head.” My heart sunk. According to him the Spirit of God is only found in the Bible. In the Word of God. What? What happens when you don’t have the Bible in your hand? Can God no longer speak to you? What about the person who cannot read. Does God have nothing to say to them? I’ll leave that there. But let me close my message today with this. If it were not for the Spirit of God that dwells within the heart of this Jesus Chick, the same one that sat at the kitchen table yesterday morning ready to walk out on God, but had the Spirit speak to me through some music, and reminded a dear friend to call and say “Shari you are loved and you are worthy.” If not for that, my resilience would have gone from paper thin to non-existent. There is power in the word of God, yes there is!!!! I received it this morning. There is power in Spirit of God, I have received it often. And there is power in the people of God, but deed they got to get out more often.

Get out of the building and into the dirt!

Posted in Christian Service, Church attendance, Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration, salvation

Elementary Faith is in Living Color!

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Elementary Faith is in Living Color!

My thoughts this morning went back fifty plus years. To a singlewide trailer, first at Leatherbark, WV (my earliest memory) 1966 ish and to another that sat on the bank of Duck Creek in 1969. Three bedrooms filled to the brim with not only five children and my parents, but multiple guests every weekend, Sunday’s were spent in church at Leatherbark and then Strange Creek. We moved to the big city a couple of years later to a house on 3211 Spruce Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia, and attended a little church on Murdock Avenue that might have held fifty people and has long since been torn down and replaced with “progress.” My parents moved every couple of years from the time they were married in the 1950’s until our family landed in Calhoun County in the 1970’s. It was here we stayed where my Father became Assessor and my Mother a social worker. The church I grew up in was Mt. Zion Methodist. That’s a brief history for the purpose of pointing you to the common thread in those georgraphical facts which was that there was never not a church involved in our move.

When I married, church was not a priority in my life until I had children; and then only because it seemed like the “thing I should do.” Scroll to 1996, the year of my salvation and that common thread once again ran through my fabric and hasn’t left. Up until 1996, I would say the thread was black and white like the old television screen. Constant but not very focused and a lot of static. In 1996 my faith became living color. It was literally as if a light had been turned on inside my dark brain and life suddenly made sense.

Faith in Living Color! That’s such a vivid image.

Discover the Difference! That was the theme of Victory Baptist Church when I joined there in 1996. There was assuredly a difference. God was celebrated every Sunday and the purpose of the people was to worship in Spirit and in truth. I had never experienced the Spirit moving like it was there. The church was not only in living color it was charged to a neon level of excitement.

1 Corinthians 3:16-23 KJVS
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? [17] If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. [18] Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. [19] For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. [20] And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. [21] Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; [22] Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; [23] And ye are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s.

Do you know Who you Are?

[16] Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

It’s ironic that through the Spirit of God, even though He was not dwelling in me until 1996, I knew at the age of nine that I was meant for more. Now, I thought of that in a worldly sense. But that’s not what God had in mind. I was somebody, but not until I repented and gave that body to Christ. It was then all my childhood dreams became reality. I was content at being me, but then God gave me more. I became a singer, a speaker, a teacher, and God placed mentors all along the way. I had confidence never before experienced. It was amazing! But that’s my God!

Do you know You are Holy?

[17] If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.

It is only through God that you are Holy, but if you are saved, you are Holy. In Old Testament times, God set aside everything in the temple with purpose. Every vessel was fabricated to specific details and was to be used in the service for which they were created. Hello? Will that preach or what? When I said I was nine and having covernations with God, that’s no joke. At that tender age God put a desire in my heart that He would later stir up through His Spirit and I became the Jesus Chick. A vessel of purpose in the Kingdom of God. And don’t think that it’s not been a battle. Satan has tried to pull me out of the house of God multiple times and many times almost succeeded. Satan knows if he can get me out of the service of the Lord, where people have seen me shine, I’ll be tarnished and unworthy for service.

Do you know what you were created to do?

[18] Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. [19] For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. [20] And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.

I have never been the brightest crayon in the box, nor could I sing or speak in public prior to salvation. It wasn’t that i didn’t have the ability, I didn’t have the confidence or the skill. I am fully well aware that God gifted me and anoints me when I get up before people to do what I do. If I can get out of my head, and not allow the old Shari to creep back in that views an audience/congregation as eyes of judgement rather than souls in need. The wisdom of this world tells me I am less, The Spirit tells me I am all that’s needed in Christ.

Not everyone does what I do. But you have a gift and a purpose of God. Your gift may or may not be unlocked before or after salvation. Because mine was not, I knew it wasn’t intended to be used without the Spirit of God guiding it.

Do you know why you were created to do it?

[21] Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; [22] Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; [23] And ye are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s.

A child of God is set apart from the world and yet, in the world. I have struggled with that concept for many years. The world is a harsh reality and can distract the mind to the point that the Spirit is drowned out. It’s made it’s way into the church which is why the vast majority are dead. They’re listening to a demonic notion that its fine to worship the created but not the Creator. It’s fine to trust man, but not the Spirit of God. Education is inspiration but the Spirit of God is a loss of control.

Do you think I sound bitter?

You may be right. I’ve had it up to my eyeballs with dead religion, a world educated to the point of idiocy when they dare ask me to believe man and woman are debatable, and a church sits idle with out so much as a breath of support for the Lord Jesus Christ outside the walls of the church. We’ve allowed the concept of public education to take over Spiritual guidance by the Lord Jesus Christ. I may be bitter, but I believe I’m better for it. Because it’s brought me to the realization that I must do what the Spirit leads me to do and I much search for the truth of the Spirit. Of course there’s a deceptive spirit in the world that would love to get me off kilter… But if I continue in His word, I’ll be fine. The word tells me that there was a group of believers that were excited and that turned the world upside down. I want to be that person. I want to follow the Spirit where He leads me. And if the church wants to sit in the pew like a knot on a log… well, I guess they’ll just be knot heads for Jesus. My children and grandchildren will see that God has never been been black and white but He is Living Color!

God bless ya! And Stay Alive!!!!

Posted in Forgiveness, Leadership, Life Inspiration, salvation, testimony

The Dumbing Down of Repentance

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Dumbing Down of Repentance

I always like to start a blog post like this with the definition of our discussion, in hopes there actually is a discussion. That my message won’t fall on deaf ears, but stir the heart of the reader. From the 1828 Webster’s Dictionary it says that Repentance is define:

REPENT’ANCE, noun [French] Sorrow for any thing done or said; the pain or grief which a person experiences in consequence of the injury or inconvenience produced by his own conduct.

2. In theology, the pain, regret or affliction which a person feels on account of his past conduct, because it exposes him to punishment. This sorrow proceeding merely from the fear of punishment, is called legal repentance, as being excited by the terrors of legal penalties, and it may exist without an amendment of life.

3. Real penitence; sorrow or deep contrition for sin, as an offense and dishonor to God, a violation of his holy law, and the basest ingratitude towards a Being of infinite benevolence. This is called evangelical repentance, and is accompanied and followed by amendment of life.

Repentance is a change of mind, or a conversion from sin to God.

Hammond.

Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation. 2 Corinthians 7. Matthew 3.

Repentance is the relinquishment of any practice, from conviction that it has offended God.

Johnson.

The modern definition of repentance is from Merriman Webster’s says of repentance:

1: to turn from sin and dedicate oneself to the amendment of one’s life

2: to feel regret or contrition or to change one’s mind, to feel sorrow.

Obviously like most everything else in the world, we’ve dumbed down the meaning. But is the church any better? How many altars do you see lined today?

Repentance is Serious Business

The first mention of repentance is in Genesis 6:6 when scripture says that God repented: “And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.” No doubt the epitome of definition one in 1828, that God regrets the day He thought it was a good idea to make mankind. Frustrated to the point of destroying them off the face of the earth, until Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. There was still a destruction but God saved mankind. That’s ours ancestors! God spared Noah and his family telling them in Genesis 6:13 “And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.” But Noah’s family was saved. And earth was once again void of sin right? No. It didn’t take Noah’s family long to mess up either. But God had made a promise that He would never again destroy the earth in that manner, and He placed a rainbow in the sky as a covenant to Noah. And today God’s idiot humans have taken that covenant that spared our life and made a mockery of it. But judgement day will come again…

Of the 45 times repentance is mentioned in the Old Testament 32 speak of the repentance of God. His regret or decision to not take action on mankind. Is it because man had justified the grace again? No, but God’s mercy was extended each time in the hopes His people would return to Him with a right heart.

Old Testament or New Testament, the definition doesn’t change and neither does holiness of God. When John the Baptist came on the scene in the gospels saying in Matthew 3:2 “And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” things had changed, but God hadn’t. There had been no Word from the Lord for 400 years. But now there was a word and it was “Repent.” The very first word spoken by God after 400 years of silence is “Repent.” I’d say that was a pretty serious revelation for those who understood what was happening. God is telling His people to turn from their sin.

Matthew 3:3-8 KJVS
For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. [4] And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. [5] Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, [6] And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. [7] But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? [8] Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:

Commentary says that “John the Baptist called people to more than words or rituals; he told them to change their behavior. “Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins” means that God looks beyond our words and religious activities to see if our conduct backs up what we say, and he judges our words by the actions that accompany them.”

Repentance was so serious to God that it was the first word He spoke to man after 400 years. I say that again because it hit me hard this morning as I read it.

Repentance is Sacred Business

Matthew 3:9-13 KJVS
And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. [10] And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. [11] I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: [12] Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. [13] Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.

Then cometh Jesus! Oh glory to God. Then came salvation. However, we are still in Old Testament times. People tend to forget that because the Bible just said “New Testament between Malachi and Matthew,” the law didn’t change. But people were still living under the law. God was still dealing with the Nation of Israel and we lowly Gentiles were still dogs in the street unworthy in the eyes of the Jews and God. Yes we could be saved, but through the works of the law, 613 rules not meant to be broken. I wouldn’t have lasted 30 seconds, how ‘bout you?

The truth of the matter is, the Jews weren’t keeping the law either. And they resented this hairy Priest eating bugs and honey telling them that they needed to turn from their wicked ways. But not all of them. It said many repented and were baptized and the religious were upset. They didn’t care that God was Holy and that He deserved their repentance and obedience, they cared more that man was in control of who was worthy of forgiveness and man was in control of the church business.

Repentance is Sincere Business

John ends up being beheaded, Christ is crucified and the Church becomes a different entity. It’s no longer controlled by man but there is a One to one relationship with Christ Jesus made possible by the cross. We’re no longer in need of an intercessor to God through the priests. Jesus, God Himself delivers us from the sins in our life, past , present and future, by belief alone in His finished work on the cross.

But what about the baptism. Baptism in the days that Christ was on earth was still a matter of works. The Jews were still “working” for their salvation. The final payment for the souls of mankind to be reconciled with God didn’t come until the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord. When He said it was finished, all of it was finished. There was nothing to be done by man from that point forward except to repent. Repentance as defined in 1828 definitions 2 and 3.

Salvation comes when we realize that we deserve the death that Jesus took on the cross. That was our punishment He took, and we trust in the fact that His death paid the price for presence in Him. A One to one relationship with God. Our continued repentance (not for salvation) but as defined in 1828 the third definition is to continually realize offenses in our lives that dishonor God. What then do we do? We don’t repent and get saved again, we’re already saved, but we repent and show honor to the God who saved our souls! Sincere repentance. Stop playing church. That altar is not just for flowers on Easter, it’s for the knees of the children of God to go to Him and pray for forgiveness, pray for the salvation of our people, pray for a national repentance and revival and do it with the sincerest of hearts. Believe that God is not done with His people or like the days of Noah, He’d have already returned and wiped this earth clean!

I’m as guilty as anyone. I’m not throwing rocks. I have taken my salvation far too lightly and I’m tired of being a slacker. Anyone with me? I need the altar! We need the altar! The church has taken that altar too lightly for too long and has dumbed down the meaning of repentance. It needs preached and it needs lived.

Posted in Church Unity, Eternity, Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Praise

Why would you want to hang out with dead people?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Why would you want to hang out with dead people?

I was shocked when he said it. I cannot point you to the YouTube video, I kind of watched it in disbelieve and then moved on. But the thought kept being triggered in my mind. I’m not even sure what else he was reporting on, but he very nonchalantly said something about being apart of the dead Episcopalian church. Why would you want to hang out with dead people?

I have little tolerance over dead churches. It’s not that I don’t love the people. But the Lord deserves so much more! What kind of glory does it bring to the Lord when lifeless people, for whom God jerked from the bowels of Hell when they were saved, sit there like knots on a log?

Should We Finish Them Off?

That was his Disciples approach when, on his way to Jerusalem He stopped by a village of Samaritans. But they didn’t receive him.

Luke 9:51-58 KJVS
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. [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.

The disciples were going to wipe them off the face of the earth like Sodom and Gomorrah! I don’t know that I’ve ever been that frustrated with the dead church, but I may have been close a time or two. But these people were not the dead church, they were completely dead. Unsaved. My grandson Logan when he was a toddler would shoot you with his imaginary gun and if you attempted to come back to life he would say “You’re dead dead.” That’s what the unsaved are, they’re going to die twice. Dead dead. (Revelation 21:7-8)

Jesus rebuked them. He didn’t come to destroy, he came to save. Is that not our focus? It should be. Our first and foremost concern should be the salvation of souls. Pulling others out of Hell. If it’s not then we’re off kilter as a church. No matter how much knowledge you have or how holy you are, if your focus is not on the souls of men, you don’t understand why God sent you.

Should We Have their Funeral?

Luke 9:59-62 KJVS
[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]

Jesus wasn’t heartless. But He was telling this individual, taking care of the dead, is not your concern. We came to care for the living! I must say, there have been some funerals that I have thoroughly enjoyed. The person was saved, the family (tho sad) rejoiced in their home going. They understood that the person in the casket had graduated to a higher place of pure joy! But we were not meant to hang out with the dead, we should be concerned with seeing the living saved before they too lie in that casket.

I got somewhat of a second wind this week when I went for the results of my stress test and my doctor was as shocked as I was that the results were good! He knew and I knew that I had been treating my body like Romper Room and snack time, not the Temple of God. It reminded me that God will not always have mercy on my stupidity. Nor will He always allow me another opportunity to share the gospel. He’ll not always give dead churches an opportunity to live. Sometimes He’ll just let them die till the pews sit empty and their purpose is gone. Like Tucker Carson’s church.

Should We Tell Them Goodbye?

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.

When I left the first dead church, I didn’t know I was leaving. I went to visit a church and never left. At first it was the message of conviction that I was missing the purpose of my life. That God had created me to be His child and His servant and I had missed out on decades of joy by not knowing the truth of Salvation. The church I left didn’t understand why I left. There was a woman from the church showed up months later at my home with a gift because she had been my secret sister. She was weeping because I was no longer in the church. As a young naive new convert I thought, “I didn’t know you cared?” I didn’t know anyone in that church cared because they were dead! Well… all but a few. I didn’t tell them goodbye because I really, truly, without a doubt thought they didn’t know I existed. If you feel that in your church, don’t just walk out… run!

Can they be Resuscitated?

I guess that depends on if they’re dead, dead? Having a heart attack? Or playing dead?

The church I left was dead, dead. They were so dead they didn’t even know they were dead.

What about one in the process of having their heart attacked? They’re convinced they’re doing right. But Satan has blinded them to the fact that they are one step out of the grave and unless someone steps up and breathes new life into them, they’re gone. That is so very many churches. They’re going through the motions, but they’re not seeing any new lives in the church and there is for certain no joy.

Who wants to play dead? Your part of the game is over. You are no longer being used for the Kingdom of God but you’re just a pew sitter that will slowly but surely fade off into Heaven. I want to be the person alive and well, playing the game and bringing as many people into the church of God as I possibly can. The more the merrier! If you’re satisfied with your four and no more you have no clue how to play the game of life.

Can they be resuscitated? I hope so. But it will likely take a few cracked ribs and somebody else breathing life into them.

Not a very cheery message, but I pray it shocked someone into rhythm! Glory to God sing and shout His praises if He saved your soul!!

Posted in Christian Service, failure, joy, Life Inspiration, Praise

What exactly Do I have Enough of?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on What exactly Do I have Enough of?

That’s a question I ask myself almost daily. Do I have enough time. Probably not. Do I have enough money? Seldom ever. Do I have enough food for everyone? That depends on how hungry they are. Do I have enough news on the Ridgeview? Depends on the day. Do I have enough energy? Doubtful. Do I have enough patience? Oh dear. So many, many other “Do I’s.”

I seem to always fall short. Perhaps you too can identify. The question is, what to do when I feel like I am never enough? Right now I have dozens of things on my to do list that make me feel as though I’m a failure. The house is a wreck. I’ve failed as a homemaker. Five out of the seven days, David fixed his own meals for various reasons. I’ve failed as a wife. I missed covering some County Events for the Ridgeview News. I’m a failure as a publisher. I became frustrated in my walk with God. I’m a failure as Christian. I became frustrated with the church, I’m a failure as a servant. The new puppy peed in the floor. I’m a failure as a pet owner. F.A.I.L.U.R.E. That is a mindset that I have struggled with my entire life. It’s a daily struggle, because I fail daily, and the first thing that pops into my mind is “you’re a failure again.”

Why is that? Why do I have that mindset when God’s word clearly says that He created me in His image? (Genesis 1:27)

My lack of self respect and confidence is most likely from my lack of time with God. My lack of time with God is from my lack of organization. My lack of organization is from my lack of health and strength. My lack of health and strength is from my lack of attention to the details of life. My lack of attention to the details of life is my lack of self respect and confidence. My lack of self respect and confidence…

It’s a vicious cycle.

This morning, I sat down with the word of God and just pondered it. For me. Not for you. Although perhaps it will speak to you too. I wonder if Paul considered himself a writer? Did he know what God was doing through him? Paul had a level of confidence that I long for. I have moments of it. They generally last a few seconds, when I am confident that God is doing a work in me and I can let somebody have it with both barrels. And then I think… wait a minute Shari. How dare you call someone out when you’re such an idiot most of the time. But then I think about work God is doing through me, as a writer. Even though I too am the chiefest of sinners in any crowd. He still uses me and encourages my soul Paul’s words from Philippians 4

Philippians 4:1-23 KJVS

[1] Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. [2] I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. [3] And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.

What? Divisions in the Church? Well I never…

I’ve yet to be in a church that didn’t have divisions. Some worse than others. It’s a matter that weighs on my heart when I hear of it. It weighs far heavier when I’m apart of it. It takes its toll on me spiritually and physically. It causes me to doubt who I am in Christ. I lose my confidence. And the circle starts. I stop talking to God because I buy the lie that He’s upset with me because I’m uspet. And Christians are not supposed to upset. We’re supposed to be Hoooooly. You know with lots of O’s.

The problem with division is everyone thinks they’re right. Otherwise they wouldn’t be divided. Nobody that I know ever said, “I’m wrong and I’ll fight to my dying breath to prove it!” No, we fight for what we believe in. And if someone doesn’t believe like us, there’s a battle. For me that battles takes place most of the time inside my mind. I refuse to divide the church. That’s the Devil’s game. What I want to do is serve the Lord. But division sucks the desire right out of me.

Paul said that he wanted Euodias and Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. There’s a lot of stuff in the world we can disagree on, but when it comes to the things of the Lord, that will cause confusion in the church and the world doesn’t need to see that. They need to see an undivided, rightly divided gospel.

Why do you suppose Paul mentioned the division of men, and then reminded them to help the women? Do you suppose women in the ministry wasn’t something they were comfortable with? Do you suppose men were actually wrong? This isn’t about women’s rights, I assure you. This is about human nature. People can think less of someone for many reasons. Gender, age, race, culture, etc. etc. etc. This should never be. God didn’t want anyone’s focus to be on who someone was. Only on the work of the ministry. That should be the focus of the church.

[4] Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. [5] Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. [6] Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. [7] And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

What? Extreme’s in the Church? Well I never…

Twice God said Rejoice! Oh how I love to rejoice! And then in He said, let your moderation be known unto all men.

I was watching a church service online the other day and there were people dancin’ and praisin’ and just have a great time in church. My feet got a little happy too. My first thought was, well they ain’t Baptist! And they weren’t. And I’m not saying they were right or wrong in the Lord, that’s between them and God. What I’m asking is “What’s God’s idea of moderation?” Moderation means self restraint. That means to keep the flesh in check. Don’t let the flesh get out of control. And what that means is let the Spirit have control and to know the difference. It’s that right division all over again.

When the Spirit bubbles up in me, it should not be denied. If I feel like shouting Amen! I should. If I feel like raisin my hand, standing up or saying Glory to God, I should! Paul says again and again in his writing, “rejoice.” But he never says to what level. But then there’s that word “moderation.” How we rejoice should point to the glory of God, not to the fact that you are “Hooooooly.” Or a good dancer.

Paul said in Chapter 3 of Philippians

Philippians 3:1-6 KJVS
Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [2] Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [3] For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. [4] Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: [5] Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; [6] Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.

Why do you think he touched on “Beware of concision?” Division. And he speaks of it in reference to rejoicing. Do you think Paul had an inkling there could some day be division in the church with regard to worship? Again he warns about the flesh which appertains to both sides. The religious and the out of control. There is an extreme on both sides. Paul had lived it.

When there is chaos in my home and life. I cannot think clearly. When there is chaos in the church, the focus cannot be on God. But when there is a genuine clear presentation of great joy, it lifts the spirit of not only the person exuding the joy but the people observing it. It’s why when I read the word of God and I see the joy in Paul’s life, that wasn’t perfect, I know that I too can have that freedom of joy if I focus on what matters.

Glory to God! I just wrote myself happy!!!

[8] Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. [9] Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. [10] But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.

Wait? Things won’t always work out like I planned?

Paul tells the Philippians to focus on the good. To focus on the things they know are right, and let the Lord take care of everything else. The people of. Philippi would have helped Paul more, but they lacked opportunity. But what they, nor Paul lacked was joy.

I have to realize that I am not going to get everything done that I want to get done. But that should not steal my joy. And my comes from Heaven, not from earth.

Paul closes chapter 4 with the reminder that we’ll not have everything we want. But we’ll have everything we need. Even the church let Paul down (vs. 15). He was counting on them for their help. It such a God breathed scripture for me today. That in my struggle, with life, church, finances, all the things, God shows me that it is a universal issues from the days of old.

[11] Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. [12] I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. [13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. [14] Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction. [15] Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. [16] For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. [17] Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. [18] But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. [19] But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. [20] Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. [21] Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you. [22] All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar’s household. [23] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

Keep servin’. Keep Praising’. God bless ya! – Shari

Posted in Christian, Life Inspiration, Praise, Purpose, Word of God

Praise God the Spirit Lives in Me!

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When I say “I am of the opinion.” I most certainly have an opinion. A strong one. But God forbid that it doesn’t line up with His. This is my struggle. While I pray I’m always open to His leading to get me on track, I am more than aware of my human nature and the probability that I could be wrong. So doubt is an easy emotion for someone to prey on. My issues with opinion concerns are generally over things that I am very passionate about, and when someone strikes against my opinion in a way that makes me feel less than intelligent because I have my very strong opinion, my struggle goes deeper.

Knowing what I know about spiritual struggles, I’ll go to the only One who can set me straight. The Word and the Spirit of God.

The Protector of my Mind

Ephesians 6:17 KJVS
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

As a young girl I had a vivid imagination as one might imagine. One of the story lines that I continually fabricated in my mind was that of being a young girl of stature. One with “people.” Advisors and protectors that surrounded me because people wanted to know what I had to say. That probably seems strange for a young girl to think in that way, but as I have previously noted on the Jesus Chick site, my hopes and aspirations as a young girl was to be a speaker. Not a singer, or a person of fame, but a person who people wanted to listen to because I had something to say. God allowed that vision to come true in a different way, not one of stature in this world, but one of a notable position in Heaven.

When salvation came, and the Holy Spirit began living in me and through me, I had a confidence and a wisdom that was never in the fabric of my make up until then. I continued to struggle with the difference between confidence and arrogance. I loathed arrogance. It was that attitude from others that made me feel less, and I determined in my heart that if I was ever allowed to be “somebody” in the Kingdom of God, I’d never make anyone feel less. No where in the scripture is an attribute of God arrogance, confidence, yes.

As years turned into decades my experience with the Word of God and the Spirit of God was a familiar friend. Wisdom came from His Word, Understanding came from the Spirit. Clarity of subject matters came from His Word, guidance, purpose and the ability to discern and teach the Word of God came from the Spirit. That Sword helped me fight the battles I had from worldly attacks on my mind, and they were many.

The Piercer of my Soul and Spirit

Hebrews 4:12 KJVS
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

My youngest daughter calls me often asking for advice, telling me that I am her moral compass. She too has a passion that sometimes gets her in trouble. Mostly her mouth. I can advise her because she didn’t get it from anyone strange and I have more practice. But the Word and the Spirit are my go to’s. As I faced this current battle, I cried out to God asking for His wisdom. Asking Him to shield me from the flesh that had tears in my eyes and a clinched fist. Spiritual fights are every bit as real as the physical.

I knew the intent of my heart was not prove someone wrong and me right. I wanted only to know the truth. I wanted the doubt gone that had cast a shadow over the Spirit in my life, accusing me of a mind’s lie, not the Holy Spirit’s speaking. I was angry for God. And I felt the Word of God piercing my soul and Spirit. “You know it’s Me Shari.”

John 10:27 KJVS
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

In John’s scripture, he tells of the religious Jews desiring to stone Jesus. They accused Him of blaspheme because He dare say He was God. They did not believe He was God and thought only they knew the truth. That is arrogance at its finest.

The Property of God

Romans 8:9 KJVS
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

Just as the anger and tears welled up on me today, the peace of God has just overwhelmed my soul in this brief study. The Word is an unchanging guide that backs up what the Spirit reveals to me. The Spirit speaks just as the Word does. If others have not experienced the Spirit in the same manner as I have, that is between them and God, I judge no one on their relationship with God.

1 Corinthians 2:11 KJVS
For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

Only I can know what I feel. And only God knows what He reveals to any man or how He works through any man.

I sat in a completely full 2,000 seat theatre in Lancaster, Pennsylvania this week watching “Moses.” A live theatre performance. I was in full judgement mode in a comedic way inside my mind, trying to determine what denomination I believed some of the people to be by the way they dressed, spoke and acted. I sat with my bestie Gloria on one side and to the other side was a woman I believed to be Apostolic because her hair was up and she wore a skirt. To the other side of Gloria was a man that could have been a member of any church, just your average Joe. Behind us was a group of gossiping, complaining, judgmental women that clearly enjoyed their time of sharing the failures of their family, another from any church USA. In front of us was a family that I’m not sure they even went to church because they made no mention of it, and were enjoying their family outing. In front of them was a woman that caused me to remember a sermon that Walter Truss preached at Victory Baptist about a Pentecostal woman in his previous church, for which the Bishop called out because her bosoms were falling out. I said all that to say this. I know nothing about how the Spirit dealt with any one of them as they watched the story of Moses play out. But I know how the Spirit dealt with me. I am chosen. I am that voice for God that I longed to be as a child. He is my Protector, my Piercer, and I am His Property. No man knows what the Spirit does in me, but I sure do.

Questions or comments? Find me on Facebook, message me at (304)377-6036 or talk2shari@gmail.com.

Posted in Life Inspiration

Things that Ruffle my Feathers

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Are you like me, in that I heap condemnation upon myself, until I am buried under the weight of it all and unable to walk in the newness of Christ because I’m carrying the old crap around? Perhaps it’s just me. Throughout my 60 years of life on earth I have allowed others in my life to make me feel like a dirt dog. I don’t know that it was ever their intention, but they did it through a comment, an attitude of righteousness, a haughtiness, anything that made me feel less, or under their scrutiny. It still happens today, especially with people who yield their righteousness like a caped crusader for Jesus.

Romans 8:1-2 KJVS
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. [2] For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

Who’s Condemning Me?

Christ? No, it says that there is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus. So what exactly is condemnation. In the 1828 Webster’s dictionary it says that being condemned is to pronounce that one is utterly wrong, to blame, or to even go so far as to include the idea of utter rejection. Hello? Welcome to Shari 101. That’s how I feel so very often when I am in the presence of people of stature, position or worldly intelligence. I say worldly because people of Spiritual intelligence, generally speaking have spiritual wisdom, but not always. They too can run the risk of allowing their wisdom of the word to lack spiritual discernment in others.

When God began revealing His word to me, nobody was more shocked than myself. Who am I that God would speak such deep truths to my soul? And when I say deep, it’s not the depth of a person of great conviction to the study of God’s word. It’s just that God speaks deep truth’s to even silly people sometimes. Because He will use the foolish to confound the wise. It’s bible. Look it up!

So back to that feeling of condemnation. Where does it come from? It comes from the flesh. Both the flesh of others and the flesh of me. The flesh of others when they get on a high horse, and the flesh of me when I allow them to convince me I am less. I know this because the scripture said it, there is “no condemnation” in Jesus. So it comes from man.

Who’s Calling me Out?

Christ for certain will call me out when I sin. But my sins are generally not so bold and brazen to be committed in the eyes of others, so I don’t really have anyone calling me out for sins. What I have is people who call me out for having an opinion. I know this will come as a complete shock to people, but I am highly opinionated. I have a tendency to share what’s on my heart, and in so doing, it often ruffles the feathers of the people I give my opinion to. And the one thing I am highly opinionated on above all else is the Spirit of God and His work in my life. It’s never gotten old. It’s never NOT been exciting. But for some people, it’s just not that way. And for the love of all things Holy, I can’t understand it, but I don’t judge their lack of spirituality. I just assume they’ve missed the freedom part. But when people judge me for my Spirit, for me it’s as if they’re judging God. And I struggle. I struggle to the point of despair. Which is where I’ve been. It takes every fiber in my being to keep going some days, and that’s not me.

Who Want’s to be Dead?

Evidently some people do. I don’t know if it’s piousness or pride that causes a person to look down on another who “feels” deeper than they do. And I’m not above being in error about the whole thing. I just don’t understand it. Walter Truss, a preacher and friend who has gone onto glory spoke often about the “Church of the Frigid-Air.” I’ve been in many. My friend Tracy Miller always told me to just sing my heart out and find the one person that “get’s it.” They’re usually nodding to the beat, with a big ol’ grin on the their face and they’re happy to be there!

Not everybody gets it. Not everybody get’s me. And that’s okay. But I know for certain, I don’t want to die until I’m dead; and then, I’ll get it first hand how God wants me to act in service. I’ll bet it ain’t quiet.

Posted in Christian, Grace, Leadership, Life Inspiration

The Chaos, Character and Chameleons of a Christian Walk

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I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the character of mankind. I’ve struggled with my own character throughout the decades knowing that I never measure up to the standards that a Christian should, I fail God miserably. And yet, He chose to place me in the ministry of His work and set me in places where I’m in the public view, which just makes the guilt that much deeper. I currently serve in a secular position as publisher, publishing news and the sins of others and each time I do, it is not without the sting of my own sin. My conscience sears my soul and says “how dare you cast the first stone.” As you can tell, my soul is raw this morning, telling you the deepest thoughts of my own walk with Christ. 

I’ve recently struggled spiritually, and as usual just kept wallowing in my own frustration. I would talk to God in running conversations as I went from one thing to another in the chaos I call life. 

The Chaos I Call Life

When I say I have a day long, running conversation with God that is true. It makes me sound wonderfully spiritual. But what that looks like is, me praying over breakfast and adding a few friends into the blessing, driving from one event to the other, talking to God as if He’s sitting in passenger seat, and yet when He’s telling me that breaking the speed limit is a sin and I’m saying, “But God I need a good parking spot.” Our conversations are often, but they are seldom deep, because my mind is filled with chaos. Right now it’s Sunday morning, and on a very, very rare Sunday, I’ve decided to stay home because the chaos is out of control and I needed this conversation with God, and my people. You who read the Jesus Chick and are broken and human like me. And yet in the background I have a house filled with clutter because of a cleaning spree we launched yesterday, three grandchildren dispersed through my living room playing electronic devices, laundry clicking in the washer and dryer, a cat running wide open in front of the dog for tortures sake and someone just said, “What’s for breakfast?” 

In the book of Thessalonians, Chapter 2, Paul speaks to his people, the broken and human of that day. 

The Character of us All

1 Thessalonians 2:4-12 KJVS

But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. 

Each of us are filled with flaws and God knows each and every one of them. Paul said “but God, which trieth our hearts.” When God tries our heart it means He examines it to see the worthiness and intent. None will be found worthy without the blood of Jesus, but when it comes to the intent, what does God do with that? That is where I began to examine myself. It’s not that I am any more worthy than those that I may write a report on. It’s not that those I report on don’t deserve grace and forgiveness. But it is not my grace and forgiveness they should concern themselves with, but God’s. It is not me that tries their heart, but God. Paul tells the Thessalonians, don’t worry about pleasing people, please God. I can be a people pleaser, up to a point, and that point is usually the same point when I struggle with the intent of my heart. 

When I see a genuine, repentant soul, who may have committed the worst of all crimes, my heart wants nothing less than grace for them. But when I see an arrogant, self righteous person who does not care who they offend or harm, my intent can go south quickly and I want them to pay. It is those days that I rely on God to remind me of how much I needed grace. Boy…. Do I need grace. 

The Chameleon in all of Us

[5] For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:

I have a shirt that I created that says “Ridgeview News – Unapologetic Truth.” That is truthfully the reputation I strive for. But it’s a struggle, because the truth hurts! And sometimes it hurts innocent people, like that of families and friends of someone who finds themselves in the news for less than wise behavior. Paul was not a man who sugar coated anything. He shot straight from the hip and never looked back. But most people have a chameleon style life where they wear different coats, (cloaks), for different people and circumstances. 

That’s what has happened to our youth and our society. We’ve ruined them by sugar coating any bad decision they make, or excusing bad decisions in the lives of other people until we’re now living in a society that has blurred the line of sin and righteousness. Myself included. When my grand babies were little, I hated to see them get in trouble. I defended them and made light of their “little sins.” Well guess what, I’m reaping what I sowed. Because now that they’re older they still expect Noni to go light on their sins. And I want to put that chameleon coat on that changes to a happy color and make light of what they’ve done because I love them and hate to see them sad. I am for certain a work in progress on this, but I am working on it. I know that when I stand before God, even though I’m forgiven, He is not going to take my sin lightly, even though He loves me. 

The Called of Christ

 [6] Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. [7] But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: [8] So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us. [9] For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God. [10] Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe: [11] As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, [12] That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.

In those 7 verses Paul gives so many descriptions of the expectations and responsibilities of a servant of God. 

Just as they didn’t strive to please men, they didn’t want men to strive to please them. That’ll preach in a few churches I’ve been to where fancy pants men thought highly of themselves. That’ll preach to me when I get my feelings hurt, and believe me I have. But Paul tells them that he wants to be their nurse, and that makes my heart so happy when I think about the people who have ministered to me in those times of pain and put spiritual salve and bandages on my heart. As a minister of the gospel that is what we need to do more of in this hurting world, we need to heal people with the Word of God. We need to be on guard with our own actions and make sure when we leave the presence of people the words they describe us with are words that would glorify God. 

Yes my life is chaos, but I pray my crazy is in the name of Jesus.

Yes I have character flaws, but I pray the cause me to show grace and mercy to all others.

Yes I have a chameleon tendency, but God please strengthen me to live in the unapologetic truth of God. 

Yes I am the Called of Christ, called to the ministry of the Jesus Chick, and now the Ridgeview News and I pray that when I speak the truth it is done with the intent of applying a healing balm to to a hurting world.

Posted in Faith, Forgiveness, Grace, Life Inspiration, salvation, Word of God

I’d Not Last 20 Minutes Under the Dispensation of the Law

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What are we hoping in today? Jeremiah has this conversation with the children of Israel in Jeremiah 17. He’d just given them a piece of his mind over their continued idol worship and wicked lives in the sight of God house, even in God’s house. It was the dispensation of the law, not the grace we live in today. It’s very easy for me to get wrapped up on the side of the law when I read these verses. I know that my heart is wicked, and God knows how wicked. While I attempt to live in this fallen world and stay out of trouble, I don’t do a very good job of it. But praise God for the Grace afforded me by the salvation of Jesus Christ!!! I wouldn’t survive 20 minutes under the dispensation of the law, but the dispensation of Grace covers my multitude of sin.

Because of that, I can read Jeremiah 17 with great joy on a day when I’m not feeling the greatest of joy in my life. I’m feeling frustration from both body and soul, and then I read the Word of God and He speaks words of affirmation that I am fine. The world’s a mess, but I am fine.

My Hope is In the Lord

Jeremiah 17:7-14 KJVS
[7] Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is.

When I accepted the work of Jesus Christ on the cross, He became the final blood sacrifice to pay my sin debt. My heart was viewed with Christ’s blood over it, like the blood that was put over the door posts in the days before the Exodus of Israel from Egypt, when the death angel passed over all the homes that had the blood applied. Just as Israel was not kept from other harsh times, their promise of the Promised Land stood firm, and while I am not given license to sin, my sins are covered and I am promised forgiveness and rest in the Lord through the applied blood. And I’m promised a life in the Promised Land of God some day!

My Heat is Quenched in His Word

[8] For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.

Even in these days of disparity that America is facing and that we individually are facing with health issues and other struggles, there is a cool drink of water found at the river of life that brings the Word to life inside of this aging body, allowing me to bear the fruit God intended and calm the heat bearing down on me. It is unfortunately not recognized until I am so thirsty that when I finally drink it in, I almost flood every part of my being to the point of strangulation. That’s a tad dramatic of course but it’s how I feel when I read the word of God and it overflows my mind like a flood on the banks of the creek following a storm. This world will suck me dry if I don’t stay in God’s word. That’s why God says to be planted, not just passing by the creek and scooping up a mouthful of refreshing Word, but gradually, day by day soaking it in until your thirst is satisfied and your life can produce fruit to feed others. I pray that is what my blog is, but I know I fail miserably when I allow myself to get away from the Water and get wrapped up in the world.

My Heart is Deceitful but my Lord is Faithful

[9] The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? [10] I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.[11] As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool. [12] A glorious high throne from the beginning is the place of our sanctuary. [13] O Lord, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the Lord, the fountain of living waters. [14] Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.

I’ll not pretend that I am a sanctimonious saint. Jeremiah didn’t either. That is why he said, the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. It is. We have to take responsibility for not only the good fruit in our lives but the stinky fruit we produce as well. While the blood of Jesus will certainly cover a multitude of sins, I shouldn’t feel so obliged to give Him so much. I have sins of omission and sins of commission. Things I don’t do and should and things I shouldn’t do but do them anyway. I’ll not throw anyone under the bus before I lay down in the road. But praise God He forgives and allows me to pick myself up and move forward.

Jeremiah speaks of unmerited riches and I can’t help but think of how many unmerited things I have been given in this world by God’s grace through people or circumstances. God is so faithful. For certain there is only One that can be given the glory for anything positive in my life and that is God.

During Old Testament times the sanctuary was where the people of God met with God. But now, that sanctuary is within the heart of a child of God. That’s an amazing thought. While the high priest would have to go to great strides to cleanse the temple and offer sacrifices for the sins of the people, my body is now a temple of the Holy Ghost and is continually cleansed allowing me to speak with God on my own, without the need of an earthly intercession. Without that, God in His holiness could have nothing to do me. But Christ made it possible for me to speak one on One, to have that water of the Word poured into my soul. Healing me of damages done by the world.

That makes me so happy today. I pray I wrote with understanding and this word blesses you. Shari Johnson, The Jesus Chick.

Posted in Christian Service, Health, Life Inspiration

Bugs are Serious Business on Mind, Body and Soul

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Bugs are Serious Business on Mind, Body and Soul

I’m not sure what kind of bug caught up with me, and with six grandchildren in school and being in constant meetings and crowds its very difficult to say, but let me tell you this much, the bug that caught me this week was wicked. Little by little it has crept through my veins over several days just giving me a hint of what was to come, and then out of nowhere on Thursday evening, I was down. Down to the point of being in bed and not moving. Frustrated and angry at myself (that’s how I role) for “allowing” this bug to catch me. And on dreary days no less when I can see no sunshine or hope for a brighter future and my inward drama mama attacks my mind telling me that I’m surely going to die. Well… aren’t we all eventually! That’s been my state of mind this week. It gradually got better Saturday when I was able to rise up from my bed and rejoin the living, but this was a pretty serious attack on my already downed spirit.

King David had such a day as he describes in Psalm 63

Gill’s Commentary says that this psalm was composed by David, either when he was persecuted by Saul, and obliged to hide himself in desert places, as in the forest of Hareth, the wildernesses of Ziph, Maon, and Engedi, 1 Samuel 22:5; all which were in the tribe of Judah, Joshua 15:55; or when his son Absalom rebelled against him, which obliged him to flee from Jerusalem, and go the way of the wilderness, where Ziba and Barzillai sent him food, lest his young men that were with him should faint there, 2 Samuel 15:23.

It’s hard for me to conceptualize my whiny bug day in comparison to David’s life being threatened by either his friend or his son. That seems a little more serious than the flu. But the issue with me and the flu is, it’s also in the midst of some really harsh reality about my health. Because I don’t in any way shape or form take care of myself, my health (heart) is also not in a good way. A doctor’s appointment would shed some light on that, but the level of my loathing of going to a doctor cannot be described in words. I went to my primary physician this week because the pharmacy refused to refill my meds until I did. (Not cool). When he asked how long it had been since I had seen my cardiologist, he was equally unhappy and said he would be referring me once again. Why I felt compelled to share that with you I have no idea, other than I felt the need for you to know the level of stupidity you’re dealing with when reading my advice.

But I can say flat footed and eye to eye to you friend, I have not once been forsaken by my Lord. The person who lets me down the most is me.

So… back to David and his dilemma.

Psalm 63:1-11 KJVS
O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;

No Water for the Weary

David likely speaks in both the literal and spiritual sense. For me it is the case too. There is plenty of both Spiritual Water and literal water available to me. The problem is, when I’m down – – I partake of neither. I talk to God, all day every day, I drink all day every day, but not water. I drink coffee, Coke Zero and an occasional Sweet Tea. None of which replaces the goodness on the body that pure natural water does. And while prayer is vital, it does not replace the reading and studying of the Word of God. Whew… that was a needful reminder.

John 4:10 KJVS
Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.

No Reason not to Worship!

[2] To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary. [3] Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. [4] Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. [5] My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:

David spends time reflecting on his time in the sanctuary of the Lord, when he worshipped and praised God. The effects of Worship on the human body and soul is amazing. I can be having one of the worst days ever but then hear a sweet song of the Lord and immediately I am encouraged. But, by the same token, my second favorite thing to do is to set in complete silence. I love it. But it’s not always healthy, because in the silence there is void and Satan will take every opportunity to fill a void in your life. Was that a word for you? Because it sure was for me. I need to be very aware when I am enjoying the silence in my day that there’s not subtle words being spoken to my mind by the ol Demon himself or his cronies. Telling me things like, give up Shari, you’re too sick.

No Worries In the Shadow of His Wings

[6] When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches. [7] Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice. [8] My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me. [9] But those that seek my soul, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth. [10] They shall fall by the sword: they shall be a portion for foxes. [11] But the king shall rejoice in God; every one that sweareth by him shall glory: but the mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped.

I learned, sometimes too well, that there is a difference between worry and concern. I have mastered the skill of turning worry off by replacing it other thoughts. The problem with that theory is I some times turn concern off too. But one of the greatest blessings in my life since day one of salvation is the ability to run under the shadow of the His wings and allow Him to conceal me from the enemy.

He not only does that for me, He does that for you. But it is the enemy’s job to make us feel weak even when we’re not. But on days of illness, depression or the struggle of life it is very easy for him to steal the peace that God affords when His children run to His side to be hidden beneath His wings. David knew it. I know… even though I still listen to that idiot the Devil many times as he whispers lies in my ear.

Join my in prayer for each other today. I’m praying for you… that God will wrap His arm around you and allow you to feel the presence of His Holy Spirit in your life. What ever you are facing, remember that many have tread that road before you. Including the Lord. Lots of love and hugs from The Jesus Chick.