Shannon k hinson

When you PUSH through

April 9, 2024Leave a Comment

We all encounter things in life that seem to be blocking our path. It could be something hindering you from moving forward. It could also be a lack of resources to reach your goal. I will throw in one more, lacking ability to reach your destination. Whatever the obstacle is, you’ve got to push through or find a way around it.

This week I’ve been studying some of the women of the Gospels. The account of the woman with the bleeding condition in Mark 5 beginning with verse 25, has always resonated with me. I mean the testimony of this women has always stirred me inside since I was young. Why? Well I can relate to suffering from something for many years. I can also relate to seeing many doctors who couldn’t really help. Besides the doctor who did my cochlear implant surgery in 2006, my incredible audiologist, and the doctor who assisted me when our son was born, the rest of them weren’t so helpful. ( well honestly they help with general things but not the hearing and vision issues) I’ve had a total of five eyelids surgeries and found out one was not even needed. That’s a little hint to my wariness of doctors.

As I studied to prepare for our weekly Bible study, once again the woman with the bleeding condition stirred my heart. One thing about teaching on a subject, you end up going a bit deeper. I have seen the story so many times but never really considered how negatively her bleeding condition impacted her life. Back in the Old Testament, people with a continuous discharge of any kind were considered unclean. What they laid on or sat on was unclean. Leviticus 15 explains the Old Testament laws concerning these things.

So this woman has suffered for 12 years with this bleeding condition. She has depleted her financial resources by seeing many doctors who could not help. She in fact got worse. Think of her physical, emotional, social and spiritual distress for 12 long years.

The word had spread of Jesus, His power and healing touch. Everyone must have been talking about Jesus and the special ministry of healing and compassion He shared. The woman heard that Jesus was there and she wanted to touch the edge of His robe. Mark‬ ‭5‬:‭27‬-‭29‬ says, “She had heard about Jesus, so she came up behind him through the crowd and touched his robe. For she thought to herself, “If I can just touch his robe, I will be healed.” Immediately the bleeding stopped, and she could feel in her body that she had been healed of her terrible condition.”(NLT‬‬)

That sounds like a pretty bold act of faith on her part. The crowd was pressing in on all side. She was probably weak and tired from blood loss. People in the crowd who knew her were possibly wondering ”Why is she here? She’s unclean”. She obviously didn’t care what the people thought. She was determined to get through the crowd and touch the hem of Jesus robe. She believed. She had great faith and acted n it. As a result she was healed immediately. Everywhere the Bible is shared, the story of her faith can encourage others.

She did not let the stigma of her condition prevent her from pushing through the crowd. She didn’t let her weakened condition or the pressing crowd hinder her. She was determined to push through and touch Jesus.

Is something stopping you from reaching out to Jesus in faith? Are you afraid of what others might think? God wants us to step out in faith. James 2‬:‭22‬ ‭, says, “You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete.”(NLT‬‬) James‬ ‭2‬:‭26‬ goes on to say, “Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.”‭‭( NLT‬‬) Lord help us have that kind of faith that moves and acts, believing and trusting you.

Years ago there was a woman at our church with kidney problems. She had gone up to the front of the church for prayer. I felt a prompting to go pray for her but I resisted. I was like, “Lord who am I to go pray for her?Can’t I pray for here from where I am?” A period of time passed and there was an altar call at another church service. Many people had gone forward for prayer and the lady was on the stage. Once again I felt a prompting to go up and pray for her. This time I obeyed. She told me later she had the best week following that.
What if we always acted promptly in faith, believing God for the impossible? Just like the woman with the bleeding condition who was determined to act in faith. The more we get to know Jesus and spend time in His Word (the Bible)the more likely we will walk in genuine faith. Praying, acting in faith, and watching to see what only God can do. He is God of the impossible. I love Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬-‭21‬, “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.”(NLT‬‬)

I pray this blog post has been a blessing to you. If you like it, please feel free to pass it along to bless someone else. We all need encouragement. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. I hope it inspires you to never give up in hard situations. Push through. God is always there to help us. Surrendering to Him years ago was the best decision I’ve ever made. Be blessed and better yet, be a blessing.
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The gift of suffering

April 4, 2024Leave a Comment

Yesterday I came across a devotion on our church’s App. It’s actually a book called “Read and Pray” which is portions of sermons our Pastor Loran Livingston has preached over the years at Central Church of God. We bought many copies about a year ago and gave them away as gifts. Recently a friend reminded me of the devotions and I started reading them again on the church app. You can find the devotion on https://centralnc.org/read_prayer_devotional The website is http://www.centralnc.org Past messages and music are on there. Check it out.

Yesterday, April 3 devotion was titled, “What have you done with this gift of suffering”. Please go to the website and check it out for yourself. I don’t know about you but I don’t think I’ve ever thought about suffering as a gift. Suffering can be depressing. It can be annoying and discouraging. But a gift?

One of the scriptures listed to look up is Philippians‬ ‭1‬:‭29‬ which says,“For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him.” (NLT‬) There it is folks. The New Living Translation calls it a privilege to suffer for Christ. That sure is a “game changer”.

There is an old saying, “If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.” If you take a good look at people around you and really see them and their situations, you will see suffering on all different levels. You can see emotional suffering when people are having relationship issues. There is financial suffering when families try so hard to make “ends meet” in this ridiculous inflation.There are people suffering from physical pain and health issues. Other people suffer from their lack of ability.

If we look at our “suffering” through the lens of “privilege “ or a “gift”, what are we doing with it for the glory of God? I will be the first to admit that it’s tough. Honestly you can’t do this in your own strength, but you can in the strength of the Lord. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

In my personal situation, many might see my low vision and hearing issues a suffering. I’ve heard many people complain when they couldn’t drive for a certain period of time like that was the end of the world. I get it. At the beginning that was one “tough loss” but here I am about 35 years since I stopped driving, and I’m just fine. It was not the end of the world. My priorities have changed. I don’t always have to be going somewhere and I’m sensitive to others around me that have “lost”something. Add to that low vision hearing and speech comprehension issues, is it easy? Not by any means but God has given much perspective and empathy for others.

God has given me opportunities to get involved in serving others and helping to meet their needs. There is nothing like taking the attention off yourself and helping others. Forget the “woe is me” outlook. A couple of months ago my husband Ron and I got involved with some friends helping with Rice N Beans Ministry. We are helping with the Rock Hill location. A few weeks ago we met a homeless man and he said he was so blessed because he knows Jesus. This man has no earthly possessions but he has Jesus and he feels so blessed. That is the biggest testimony. With his “gift of suffering” in being homeless, he is declaring the goodness of God. Wow.

Another example of doing something with the “gift of suffering” would be in teaching bible study to my deaf girlfriends. Three of us have hearing loss and one is hearing. Our learning approaches are all different and so are our reading skills. With my vision issues and preparation for the lessons, it takes a lot of time to prepare. As I have pressed through, God has given me a deeper understanding of His Word. The girls who bought Bibles at the beginning of the study are now looking up and reading scripture. They participate in the discussions. One friend who has always been shy about praying out loud, is now signing short prayers. She said she didn’t know how to sign it in English. I said “ Prayer is talking to God. It doesn’t matter how you sign it, just talk to our Heavenly Father, and so she did. These things are priceless.

So what are you doing with your “gift of suffering”? Can you even see suffering as a “gift”? Think about the hardships you have endured. Has God brought people along side you to help “carry the load”? That could be in the forms of encouragement, offering to pray, bringing a meal, offering a listening ear. Reading Pastor’s devotion and reflecting on life, helps me see things more clearly.

I pray this blog post has been a blessing to you. If you like it, please feel free to pass it along to bless someone else. We all need encouragement. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. I hope it inspires you to never give up in hard situations . God is always there to help us. Surrendering to Him years ago was the best decision I’ve ever made. Be blessed and better yet, be a blessing.
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Because “It is Finished”

March 29, 2024Leave a Comment

Today is “Good Friday” and I’m so thankful to know Jesus as my Lord and Savior. The horror of what Jesus endured for us is so beyond my comprehension.

Here is a little bit of the account after the horrific crucifixion. “At noon, darkness fell across the whole land until three o’clock. At about three o’clock, Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” which means “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” Some of the bystanders misunderstood and thought he was calling for the prophet Elijah. One of them ran and filled a sponge with sour wine, holding it up to him on a reed stick so he could drink. But the rest said, “Wait! Let’s see whether Elijah comes to save him.” Then Jesus shouted out again, and he released his spirit. At that moment the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, rocks split apart, and tombs opened. The bodies of many godly men and women who had died were raised from the dead. They left the cemetery after Jesus’ resurrection, went into the holy city of Jerusalem, and appeared to many people. The Roman officer and the other soldiers at the crucifixion were terrified by the earthquake and all that had happened. They said, “This man truly was the Son of God!””
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭27‬:‭45‬-‭54‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) and another, “When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” John‬ ‭19‬:‭30‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

On this “Good Friday” (I always have wondered why they named it Good Friday with the torture that Jesus endured for us and His death.) Let’s allow this to sink in. He who knew no sin, took our place on that cross. Jesus was the perfect sacrificial lamb . He sacrificed His life on the cross so that we could live when we accept Him as Savior, ask Him into our hearts , confessing our sins and need of His grace. The highest price He paid and the death He died, so we could live.

It’s Friday, but Sunday is coming.

Jesus is now seated at the right hand of The Father. Check our Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭14‬-‭16‬,“So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”(NLT‬‬)

Do you know Jesus as Lord and Savior?He loves you so much He died on the cross for you. It’s Friday but Sunday’s coming. Not only that but He conquered the grave. He rose again on the third day.

Salvation doesn’t depend on a certain location. Where ever you are right now, you can confess your sins to Jesus and ask Him to forgive you. Ask Jesus into your heart today to change your life around for His glory. Romans 10:9-10 says, “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.” ‭(NLT‬‬)

To end this blog I want to share a music video. Check it out.

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Not my Will

March 24, 2024March 24, 2024Leave a Comment

I’ve been a Christian for a long time. Learning to pray God’s Will and not my own has been something I’ve had to learn over a long period of time. Sad to admit that it took me so LONG to learn this truth but I learned.

With this being the week leading up to Resurrection Sunday, I am so beyond thankful that Jesus chose the Father’s Will over His own Will. As Pastor preached this morning, tears silently rolled down my face. The magnitude of what Jesus did for us on the cross is so beyond our understanding. There is no way to express the thankfulness that I feel for Jesus sacrifice for me.

Jesus, God’s only son, who had never sinned, never done anything wrong, laid down His life for us. He took the wrath and fury of God, on Himself. Oh how I praise Jesus! To know that He paid my debt in full, so that I can live forgiven. God’s gift to us is a free gift that anyone can receive. How can anyone reject such an incredible free gift?
Check out these verses from Romans chapter 3. “Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he makes sinners right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.” Romans‬ ‭3‬:‭24‬-‭26‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) Such amazing love God has for us!

God had to look away when Jesus was on the cross, bearing our sins. But….Yes there is a but, God saw the Big picture. He was looking ahead at the Resurrected Jesus! He was looking ahead at the Triumph over the enemy! He saw the big picture of His adopted children spending eternity with hHm in Heaven. Oh Lord help us to pray, “Not my Will but thy will be done.”

I was texting my Mom this afternoon. I asked her to keep praying about a situation. She said she would. We both agreed not to press the issue but let God do His work. We often try to “fix things” ourselves. “ Lord I have some ideas on how this might work!” How many of you do this? Surely I am not alone in trying to solve issues. But God! That is such a huge truth! But God! He sees the “Big” picture. He knows what He’s doing. My little ideas might not be over all bad ideas, but He sees ahead. He is timeless. He knows the beginning from the end and the end from the beginning. One step forward of faith, two steps backward trying to work things out on my own. It’s a back and forth shuffle but Praise God, as I continue to walk with Him, daily seeking Him, I’m moving more ahead than back. Thank you Jesus!

How many of you try to get out of what God’s brought you to do? I know I’m not alone here. I am still struggling with the concept of teaching Bible study when I can’t see the book and have trouble seeing my notes zoomed in on my iPad.

Teaching God’s Word is a weighty matter that I don’t take lightly. I can grasp a tiny bit the burden Pastors have . I see a little glimpse of that. So many times I have said “God I don’t want to do this”. Here I am still doing it because God has this door open and I am trying to obey. Not my will but thy Will be done.

I shared with my husband Ron and my Mom about this struggle. I know they are praying. As I’m preparing this week I feel a bit “lighter”. I’m trying to “let go and let God” sink this lesson deep down within the “spiritual well” of my heart. He is teaching me and I know He will let it “bubble up and pour out” as only He can make that happen.

What are you struggling to give to the Lord and let Him have His way? It’s not an easy place to be but the stretching is rewarding. God wants us to be a part of His work. John 4:35 says, “You know the saying, ‘Four months between planting and harvest.’ But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest.” ( ‭NLT‬‬). Jesus is talking about a “spiritual “ harvest.

Let’s be open to God’s perfect Will. Let’s open our eyes to see where He is at work and be willing to join in as He leads. Whatever you are facing, be encouraged that “It is finished’. Jesus has overcome it all. In His presence every “high place must come down”…every stronghold shall be broken”. Jesus wears the”Victors Crown”. All Glory and Honor to Jesus! So incredibly humbled and thankful.

If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. I’m thankful for this gift to share when God puts something on my heart. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. (Hard cover soft cover, and e-book formats.) I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. All for the Glory of God.

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The Art of Existing

March 19, 2024Leave a Comment

Right now I’m at the Fort Mill Church of God food pantry. Today has been a slower day, just having to pack one round of boxes. One round equals 24 boxes of food. I am thankful for the team of volunteers that work together here. Since I have to wait until 12 (noon) when mom is finished to leave, I figured I would use my time wisely. Got a little online shopping done for a cousins baby gift and now I’m thinking about life. Give me some spare time and a keyboard and I will go exploring through thought processes and how to cope with what life throws.

An example of existing with limitations…. well actually way more than just existing but actually living with Joy. Every Tuesday before the Food pantry opens to the community we have group prayer. This is so tricky for me because I can’t comprehend much of the speaking that goes on around the big circle. I can sometimes tell who is speaking by movement but not always. Today I thought they had started the prayer but actually one person just had a rather long prayer request and was still talking. Mom had her head bowed, but I guess in hind sight she was just looking down. Um… I guessed they weren’t praying quite yet. Then two men too off their hats so I know that was a big indication prayer was beginning. I dont hear the requests but I offer up a prayer. “Lord you heard the requests even though I didn’t”.

When you live with hearing and vision issues you just have to “go with the flow”. Predetermine that you’re not going to let things get to you. Don’t be easily offended and just “let it roll”.

Yesterday was another prime example of just choosing a poisitive outlook. Yesterday was Monday and boy did it turn out to be just that. Mom and I had our mammogram appointments . We left with plenty of time to be there and get signed in. We weren’t anticipating any construction or who knows what it was, in front of the parking deck. There was no place to park and we circled the lot quite a few times. Ended up finding a spot quite a distance from where our appointment was. Oh welll… just do it. Right as we walk into the building, Moms phone rings. A friend was calling to let her know a family friend had passed away. I didn’t know until after we signed in for our appointments. Speaking of signing in, they seem to be “masking up” again. Oh joy ….NOT. Mom was a little flustered. Too much at once: being late, no parking space, someone died, need to help me sign in etc. Bless her heart. She’s a “trooper”. I gave her a hug and we pressed on through. Her appointment was first. I told her to let the lady know of my issues since she was wearing a mask. When it was my turn the lady technician was nice and trying to be helpful. I said “Im good. Same old drill. Let’s get it done”. After our appointment we grabbed some lunch and went in a few stores then she took me home.

Last night when I finished studying for Bible study, I got on X/Twitter to scroll through some posts. I saw someone asking for prayer and how people manage with depression and anxiety. I said a little prayer for the person as I typed a few tips on how I cope with those things.

The first tip I gave the person was to cover the situation in prayer. You see, Abba Father cares about every little detail of our lives. We humans try to do things in our own strength which is really pointless. Pray about whatever it is that is depressing you or causing anxiety. God can open or close doors. He can orchestrate situations to work for the best. Include Him in every detail. That is one of the keys to living with Joy.

Another thing I suggested to the person was to have fellowship with other believers. I know when you’re depressed you feel like you want to be left alone. I get it. Been there, done that but secluding yourself will not help matters. When I get out and get involved, it brings a lightness to my heart. Not only that, but everyone is going through something. We can help each other. We are not alone in our struggles. You can isolate yourself so you feel alone. That’s a choice you make but you won’t benefit much if any, from isolation. Get out and do something. It does take dropping your pride to admit you don’t have it all together. That’s ok. No one has it all together even if they try to act like they do. We all need each other.

The last thing I suggested to the person was to play worship and praise music. There is something so healing about praising God when you are struggling or feel broken. God has turned my sorrow into dancing so many times I can’t even count them. Sing it out. I did just that on Sunday. With the increase in pollen my throat has felt full of mucus. I told my husband Ron I was going to watch church online. My cochlear implant processor has a blue tooth feature so I just tuned directly in to the live service from my iPad. As the music played I just began to worship. The place of worship isn’t important. It’s the state of the heart. I worship at home just like I worship in church. I sing out loud (off key of course) and raise my hands in praise to Jesus. There is something so freeing about just letting go and worshipping God.

These were a few tips I shared with the depressed and anxious person looking for ways to cope. God fills my life with such joy in the midst of struggles. He enables me to do more than just exist. He enables me to “Live”. It’s the art of living life. Life isnt perfect. Mine is so far from perfect. We can choose to surrender each day to Jesus and face the day with “God glasses” on. Ask God to help you see it from His perspective. He will do it. Take that first step and He will meet you there.

If you need encouragement or prayer, reach out. I’d be more than happy to pray for you. It’s a privilege to lift each other up to the Lord. We are the body of Christ. We work together for the Glory of God. I hope you all have a beyond blessed week. Don’t give up. Keep pushing. You’ve got this and best of all, God has you.

f you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. I’m thankful for this gift to share when God puts something on my heart. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. (Hard cover soft cover, and e-book formats.) I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. All for the Glory of God.

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Be Kind

March 13, 2024Leave a Comment

As I get older, thankfully I’ve gained some wisdom along the way. I finally stopped coloring my hair and my word… it is full of gray, much more than I realized. But I’d like to thank I’v earned each one of them.

God has taught me many things in life. I wish I had been quicker in learning some of them when I was younger. Mistakes are a great teacher. Live and learn and pass on the gleamed wisdom to the next generation.

One thing I have learned in life is to be the kind of person you’d like to be friends with. If you want to meet kind and compassionate people, be kind and compassionate. If you long to find a good listener who speaks life into your situations, be that kind of person to others.

I absolutely love to serve others. It is something I can do and it makes my heart happy. Today as I prepared the beans for the homeless ministry that we have gotten involved with, it made me happy to contribute in some way. As we served in Rock Hill this evening, I saw one of our new homeless friends and I called out his name in greeting. Everyone is deserving of kindness. It doesn’t matter the situation just be kind.

Another thing I’ve learned in life is to reach out to others. Earlier today I was in our home office doing Bible study and making notes to share. I also texted several different people to encourage them or let them know I was thinking about them. I told Ron, “Just imagine if I could hear well enough to talk to people on the phone.” He laughed. Honestly it makes people feel good when they are thought of. The heart does a happy dance when you know people love and care. Reach out and encourage people. Imagine how much better the world would be if people did that more.

Another value lesson I’ve learned is to know my limits. Last week was honestly too busy. Being hearing and visually impaired is tiring on a day to day basis. I have to work to understand. It takes longer to do things but I love the challenge. It is just a fact of life. However I refuse to “sit on the sidelines”. I prefer to LIVE. So besides the usual day to day, I also did Food pantry volunteering, RiceNBeans cooking and outreach and prepped and taught a long Bible study. With the high pollen here in South Carolina my allergies had flared up and my eyes were so very DRY. This made seeing my notes that were “zoomed in large” hard to see. I had signed up to participate in a 5K at our church but it was forecast to rain. I was exhausted. I felt the rain was God giving me an “out” for the 5K. Im sad I missed it but I was beyond my limit and I needed rest. This week I’m back at it but asked the Bible study girls if we could divid the lessons in two parts. It’s more manageable for me and gives us more of a chance to discuss life application. It’s okay to ask for a favor. It’s more than okay to request prayer. It’s okay to say “I’m sorry I can’t but will join next time.”

It is also fine to not see “eye to eye”with everyone about everything. Healthy calm discussions are needed. We have a generation that is so confused by nonsense in our culture and easily offended. It’s important to have the “hard talks” and pass along wise council. Just be sure to do it respectfully, trying to see the other persons point of view. There are so many angles to view a situation.

It’s also vital to demonstrate leadership skills and a faithful walk with Jesus. The other night I had a rare opportunity of a deep talk with our son. Those talks don’t happen often since he is grown and own his own. As I listened to his hopes and dreams and how he wanted to move forward, I had to seize that opportunity to stress the importance of bringing God into each of those decisions. Our kids no matter the age need to know how much they are loved. I said, “ God loves you so much. Way more than me and dad. Imagine that.” Each and every decision God wants to be a part of. You know you can talk to God about anything. Our Abba Father cares about every thing. I told Joshua, “ You can pray that God will open a door or opportunity or close it, after all He knows what’s behind each door.” Love, direct and pray over your kids no matter what their age. They are a treasure from the Lord.

There is so much more but I will end with this last thing. Trust God. God is working even when we don’t see it. Last week at Bible study the oldest in our group shared the idea of God weaving a beautiful masterpiece. Each one of us is a
“thread”. We all come together as God chooses, as a little part of the bigger masterpiece. Isn’t that beautiful? She’s raised three kids and has a bunch of grandkids. She shares the wisdom she’s gleamed in many trails. I know I can always ask her for prayer. Recently when a situation was discouraging, I texted her and asked her to pray. She reminded me that “God was busy weaving”, He is always working on us. Trusting is hard especially when you don’t yet “see” the answers to your prayers. Just know God is working out His best and while we don’t see the BIG PICTURE, He does. He will bring it all together. Just trust Him.

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3 Years Tomorrow

March 11, 2024Leave a Comment

The tulip tree we planted in honor of my dad.

Time sure does fly. You blink and a three years has gone by. Tomorrow, March 12 is not only my husband Ron’s birthday but also my dad’s third heavenly birthday. Three years ago tomorrow we took him to the hospital, fully expecting to bring him home. After all, his momma lived to be 101, bouncing back after many trials. It’s true that God’s ways are not our ways. When God calls us home, we will go.

We have handled his loss well because we know we will see him again. It was a “see you later” knowing he is with Jesus now. No more cancer, no more pain. But I sure do miss him.

Today when I was outside changing the garden flags, I walked to the back fence and smile. There in full bloom was the tulip tree we planted almost three years ago in honor of dad. He and mom have a beautiful one and I love their tulip tree. When dad died, I asked Ron if we could plant one. It blooms around the time of his heavenly birthday each year. Our upstate South Carolina soil is red clay. It’s not the best for growing things but we were extra careful mixing in some peat moss and good soil in the large hole we dug. I wanted to make sure it had the best chance of survival. So far so good. Each year it’s grown a bi more and has more blooms. Seeing those blooms today put a smile in my heart.

Grief is the oddest thing. Memories come all the time of treasured moments over the years. I was a “Daddy’s Girl”. I could talk to him about anything and he would listen and give sound advice. He enjoyed a good game of Skipbo with the family. We used to have four generations around the table playing that card game. He and his momma were sharp players and they both played to win. I recently found Skipbo online and downloaded it on my iPad. It’s a fun card game but nothing compares to the memories when we all played it together.

Tomorrow is also food pantry day. Mom and dad both volunteered at the Fort Mill Church of God food pantry for years. Eight years ago I started volunteering with them there. Dad would swing by and pick me up to take me with him and meet Mom there. He would always stop by and get me and mom a cup of tea: sweet for mom and half and half for me. I miss him when we are volunteering. Seems like he should be in the next room praying for the clients as them come in. Mom still does that and I help pack the food boxes.

Most of all I miss the talks. He was a very generous man who loved his family well. His generous spirit and legacy lives on in us all. In honor of my Dad, this blog is for you. Oh and one more thing Dad… Forrest is doing so well and your great grands are showing the Kenley genes. My goodness. When I see pictures of them I see your boy. I know you would love that. Mom sure does. Shes doing very well too, a strong woman. Love and miss you always.

Me and dad on the way to volunteer at the food pantry

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Barren

March 3, 2024Leave a Comment

Pondering on a deep level tonight. We have a few lessons left in the Bible study book some friends and I are doing. I’ve noticed that quite a few of the women of the Bible we have studied were barren for a long time before God turned things around. Here are a few of the ladies: Sarah, Rebekah, Hannah and Elizabeth.

This week we will discuss Elizabeth, John the Baptist mother. The thing about Elizabeth is she was faithful to God through her barrenness. Sarah took matters into her own hands and gave her maid servant Hagar to Abraham as a wife, so she could have children through her. Rebekah told Jacob to give her children or she would die. But Elizabeth faithfully served God in her barrenness.

As my friend Tami and I were wrapping hotdogs for Rice N Beans ministry last Wednesday afternoon, she said barrenness could be more than physical. We can be barren in other ways. For example, praying for years for something and God seemingly says no. He could possibly be saying wait, or maybe it’s Yes to His best. His timing is indeed perfect but there is heartache in the wait. It’s a goal to be thankful in the trials. Not complaining but being thankful. I have a pet peeve over people that complain about rival things. I won’t go down that rabbit hole.

Back in Biblical days it was a disgrace to be barren. Imagine the talk of the people. You know gossip has existed since time began. Imagine Elizabeth in the market place, neighbors see her and say, “It’s sad she has never conceived.” We don’t know that for sure but knowing human nature, it probably did occur. I have friends who have prayed for their prodigals a long time. I have a college friend going through the process of lung transplant. It’s a long process she has to endure. Some have prayed for things for so long and you wonder, God are you listening? Of course he is. His timing is always perfect. Although from a human perspective it seems so off.

There is a young man who takes notes at church and shares them on the Bible app. I like to read them and see if I missed anything. Last week I missed something Big. Pastor had asked if we want to be “delivered or developed.” Whoa what a huge question. Pastor said he would rather be developed. I hope one day I can honestly say that. If God chose to deliver me from hearing and vision difficulties I’d be jumping with Joy over here. If God chose to deliver my son from similar issues and never healed me, I would be over joyed. Life is down right tough. You don’t think about it you just push through. See where God is at work and dive in and help. But being busy doesn’t take the heartache away. Being silent and not talking about it doesn’t make it any easier. It is easier for me to focus on serving and making things easier for others. That does help. It is also easier to just keep to the norm. When I get out and do things I notice more what I miss and it stings. Just being honest here. But on the other hand, getting out with people who’s understand encourage is a breath of fresh air.

This evening a friend texted me and as we were talking I shared with her some of my story she didn’t know. She said “wow.” I said, “If you only knew”. Life is challenging in so many ways that it’s almost funny. Here is a little example, the other night I was heating some apple cider in the microwave. I have some difficulty (ok honestly great difficulty ) seeing the control panel. I thought I set the timer for one minute and forty five seconds. I accidentally put it on 11 minutes and forty five seconds. I couldn’t see the double 1. I could just see one of them. I walked to a different room for something and came back in the kitchen. Realizing my mistake I quickly stopped the microwave and sure enough, it was splattered all over the inside. Welcome to my adventurous life. 🙃

I wonder what its life to have smooth sailing in life. You know, the joys of understanding people without having to work at it . Being able to read without using some assistive device. Getting in a car and driving where you want to go. These are just some simple pleasures normal people take for granted without even thinking abut it.

No I’m not having a pity party. I’m just pondering life as I prepare for a bible study. I feel like I live out some of these stories. Take Elizabeth, she had joy and a song in her heart. It is kind of odd but I often wake up with a song playing in my heart. Thank you Jesus for joy in the trials. I want to say I’d rather be developed like Pastor said but I’d honestly take deliverance. It’s just been so long. God definitely has me in a developing fire. I only hope when people see me, they see Jesus strength because I can’t do it on my own.

There is something about praise and worship, it is a release. When you offer up a song of praise it’s like an aroma that is pleasing to the Lord. It’s good to meditate on Gods goodness. Mediate on His sovereignty. He is in control even when it doesn’t feel like it. He’s got the big picture in mind. He is always working behind the scenes. Working in circumstances to develop our character, endurance and faith. He is refining us as a silversmith. Oh Lord give us patience in the wait.

I am going to wrap this up. I’ve done enough pondering on biblical application for one night. On one last note, the one thing about each of the ladies we studied who were barren, God did remember them and brought favor and blessing. He actually worked in mighty ways in each circumstance. If yu are like me and in a seemingly LONG waiting game, just hold on. God will bring us through. He is faithful. He who began a good work, will complete it for His glory.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Make it your own

February 29, 2024Leave a Comment

This is going to be a little different. Today the verse of the day on YouVersion is Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”‭‭(NLT‬‬). I have many favorite scriptures but this whole chapter really touches me every single time I read it. Today was no different.

Today as I read the whole chapter yet again, I thought about each verse. I would like to put the chapter here and comment in italics on each verse and how it touches me. You can meditate on scripture and let it sink deep down in your soul to nourish you from the inside out. Let’s get started.

Psalms 139

1 “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. (This is so awesome. Nothing is hidden from God. It’s like we are bare in His presence. Everything is within His sight.)
2 You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. (Sometimes we think our thoughts are safe as long as they aren’t spoken or acted upon. But God knows even our thoughts. Imagine that.)
3 You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. (WOW the sovereignty of God)
4 You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord. (This means there’s a whole lot of silent prayers going up. A whole lot of Lord help me.)
5 You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. (This is so incredibly comforting. Knowing I’m surrounded by God brings such peace.)
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand! (The sheer magnitude of God is mind blowing.)
7 I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! (Praise God. I never want to be away from Gods presence.)
8 If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. (Always with me, everywhere I go)
9 If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, ( He is always with me. When I’m in an airplane I marvel at the Heavens and the clouds. When I’m at the beach, the wonder of His creation moves me.)
10 even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me. (I’m in awe of you Lord.)
11 I could ask the darkness to hide me and the light around me to become night— (I will take the Light of the Lord any day over darkness. Who would want to hide from the Lord?)
12 but even in darkness I cannot hide from you. To you the night shines as bright as day. Darkness and light are the same to you. (Amen)
13 You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. ( Being born with my vision problem, this verse especially touches me. Nothing is surprising to the Lord. He is fully aware of every cell in my body. That is so awesome.)
14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. (He is the potter, we are the clay. He makes us unique for His purpose and glory. Thank you Jesus.)
15 You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. (And you said It is good.)
16 You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. (Isn’t that so amazing?)
17 How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! (Oh yes and I sure would love to know those thoughts He has towards me. I want so much to please Him and be used by Him.)
18 I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me! (That is so beautiful. I love the mornings and my quiet times with the Lord. I have a picture on my wall that says”In the morning when I rise, give me Jesus.”)
19 O God, if only you would destroy the wicked! Get out of my life, you murderers! (Yes. The evil in the world is troubling. It will be one glorious day when this battle is over and the enemy is forever destroyed.)
20 They blaspheme you; your enemies misuse your name. (That sure does burn me up. One reason why I don’t care for media and Hollywood.)
21 O Lord, shouldn’t I hate those who hate you? Shouldn’t I despise those who oppose you? (I honestly have a hard time hating. Im always looking for the silver liner.)
22 Yes, I hate them with total hatred, for your enemies are my enemies. (I certainly do despise evil.)
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. (This is my hearts cry everyday.)
24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”(Yes Lord. Correct me for I know you discipline those you love. Guide me always in the way I should go . For your glory lead me Lord.)
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭1‬-‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

You can do this with any scripture. Meditate on it and watch transform your hearts. Apply it to your life. The Bible’s isa map for life and daily living.Take the time to read it and let it change you for the glory of God.

Be blessed.
Www.shannonkhinson.com

When you can’t fix it

February 28, 2024Leave a Comment

My fixed elephant tail and my processor that stopped beeping.

We all occasional break things and reach for the super glue. Sometimes the glue works, other times it doesn’t. In the last two weeks my husband Ron has fixed one of my favorite pair of shoes,a ceramic bird and my favorite baby ceramic elephant. I still don’t know how its tail broke off. Last Wednesday I saw Ron with his super glue working on my elephants butt. Somehow its tail broke off but he managed to fix it.

Technology is a different story. Today while I was prepping my Bible study notes I send to the girls in our Bible study group, out of the blue my cochlear implant processor began to beep. There was a series of three beeps that happened over and over. It was like it was being programmed but I had no idea why. I turned it off then back on, but the beeps continued. I changed the battery twice but that didn’t work either. I also tried disconnecting the bluetooth feature from my iPad, but it still kept beeping. Oh my word! It was so annoying but I could not fix it. Ron was taking me to my friend’s house to help her cook for the homeless ministry. While in the car, I e mailed my audiologist. The beeping finally stopped but I still have no clue what caused it.

People matters can be a whole different issue. I love human nature and how personalities click or clash is intriguing. People mess up. That’s just a fact of life. People hurt your feelings and you have to forgive and forget. Some have an easier time with that than others. Someone recently told me about a situation where they were at fault and it caused issues in a relationship. They told me they just could not fix it. I said, “Have you apologized” The answer was yes. I then asked, “Have you prayed about it” People don’t always think to pray about situations. The fact is, God can work in the hearts of all involved. Sometimes you’ve got to swallow your pride and admit you did something wrong. Sometimes people look at the same thing from a completely different angles and can’t see eye to eye on something. Oftentimes we just have to let it go. Learn from the situation and move on. Live, learn, let it go and move forward.

Tonight at the Rice N Beans outreach in Rock Hill, Ron struck up a conversation with a man waiting at the bus top. I was standing there with them but I could not understand the conversation. The mam had good eye contact. Ron did sign just a little bit of what he said so I could follow a bit. The man has been through a lot. He was my own age. Ron was trying to encourage him. All the sudden I found myself speaking about God giving joy in the midst of hard things. Ron asked him if he knew Jesus and he said yes. As Ron talked with him, I said a silent prayer that God would open doors for this man.

Life happens. Things break and people mess up. Sometimes you can fix it, other times you can’t. In the midst of it all, God is working. You might ask how. God is always at work behind the scenes. In the most troubling times, He is at work in the hearts and circumstances. Keep praying and keep trusting God. We humans can really mess it up when we take things into our own hands. It’s wise to acknowledge Gods sovereignty and surrender to Him. He can bring beauty from ashes.

As my friend and I were preparing the food today, we also talked about our upcoming Bible lesson. This next lesson is on Elizabeth, John the Baptist mother. She and her husband Zacharias had prayed for years for a child, but they still had no children. They probably assumed that God had said “no”. In reality God was saying “wait”. His timing was perfect. It warmed my heart to be reminded that God hears my every prayer. When it seems He is saying no to my requests, it actually is yes to His best. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” ‭(NLT‬‬)

Do you have something in need of fixing? If you find you cant fix it, you can always prayer about it. God has ways of working things out. Give it to Him and trust Him to bring out the best. You are loved more than you will ever know. Be blessed.