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Adventure on the water

May 22, 20234 Comments

Yesterday I returned home from a week away at the beach with some great friends. While the whole week was wonderful, our last full day was by far my favorite. Leasa and Lisa Jane went to the beach but Tami and I went kayaking in the canal and waterway.

There is something about kayaking that soothes me. I find myself so relaxed out on the water. It’s like I was made to be out there. THe last time I went kayaking was a couple of years ago. I have never gone wearing my cochlear implant processor. My Advanced Bionics Marvel processor is far too expensive to risk losing in the water. However I packed one of my old processors that has old technology. Since I can still hear some with it, I brought it along and I’m so glad I did.

Let me just say, the sounds of the water and wind were like soothing music. I listened as the paddle sliced through the water and came up dripping before slicing through again with the next rhythmic paddle motion. The weather was perfect, partly cloudy with a light breeze. The tide was in the process of going out. As Tami and I started out, the outgoing tide kind of helped us along. However on the return the tide was against us.

Before we set out I told Tami I would follow her because I was sure boaters were out and we would pass under a bridge where people sometimes fish. With my low vision I didn’t want to get entangled in someone’s fishing line or be someone’s “catch of the day”. I could hear her some with my old processor but couldn’t see her sign language. If I wanted to talk I’d extend my paddle and she would pull me over. When you have limitations like me, you have to come up with a system that works. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

With the outgoing tide we found ourselves in some very shallow spots. At one point we got out and pulled the kayaks to deeper water before setting off again. Some of the boats got stuck until the tide rose again. Tides are tricky. You have to prepare carefully or you might get stuck or face paddling against it.

Truth be told, as I was paddling along my thoughts went to spiritual things. The end of Genesis 1:2 came to my mind, “…. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.” (NKJV) I feel so close to God in His beautiful creation. There isn’t the constant bombardment of distractions. Deep calls to deep and His voice abounds if we listen closely.

As I sit here reflecting, I sense some life lessons to pass along. Although paddling can be tiresome, if you get caught up in the wonder of the beauty it is so rewarding. Sometimes you need more than sight. A strong sense of direction will keep you going even when you can’t fully see what lies ahead. Have faith in the one who directs you. When we put our hope in Jesus He is going to see us safely through to our destination. In life we will occasionally get “stuck” and find ourselves going againt a strong current. At these times God brings people along to help us along the way. We all have strengths and weaknesses and we can use them to bless each other. Always pray for guidance before setting out. Our friend Leasa prayed for us before we set out.

I think I have discovered one of my potential favorite hobbies in kayaking. Someone gave us a two seater this Spring and I can’t wait to try it out. Hopefully my husband and some friends will enjoy it like me and be my eyes out on the water. We will see! Hopefully many more kayaking experiences are in my future. I’m so thankful for the life lessons learned along the way and sensitivity to God’s gentle whisper in His beautiful creation.

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. 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. Be blessed!

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Refreshing by the sea

May 18, 20232 Comments

Writing tonight from Cherry Grove Beach. Three friends and I came down on Monday for a fun relaxing girls week. We are missing two of our sisters but are having the most relaxing time. There has been lots of laughter, playing card games, listening to worship music and walking on the beach. One friend and I walked over five miles on the beach today.

As we went out on the beach earlier today a song was playing in my mind, It is Well by Bethel Music.and Kristene DiMarco. Part of the song goes like this: So let go my soul and trust in Him, the waves and wind still know his name…It is well…with my soul… it is well…with my soul… it is well, it is well with my soul. My heart was full of worship as I sat there watching and listening to the surf and wind. I wore my Advanced Bionics Marvel cochlear implant processor. I love to hear sounds of nature.

Gods creation declares His glory and majesty. The sovereignty of the Lord is so apparent in nature; it makes my heart swell with joy and delight. The sounds and beauty of the ocean and seeing wildlife is so amazing. Watching the sunset over the marsh has been stunning as well. Today many jellyfish had washed up onshore for some reason. They are interesting to look at. We came across a beautiful bird as well.

There is something about the beach that makes me in awe of God. I often think of Bible scenes as I’m on the beach. Maybe it’s because Jesus taught often on the sea shore. The power of the sea and watching the tide changes is fascinating. As we walked we saw a pier that had been badly damaged by one of the hurricanes. I remember watching online when the hurricanes came through. The raging winds and waves wrecked havoc on shore. I know the God who is sovereign over it all.

In Mark chapter 4 , Jesus is asleep on a boat when a bad wind storm rose up causing waves to crash into the boat and His disciples were terrified. They woke Jesus up becauuse they were so afraid. Mark 4:39 says, “Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.”
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Psalms 65:17 says, “You who still the noise of the seas, The noise of their waves, And the tumult of the peoples.” (NKJV‬‬). Wow! I’m in awe of my God!

Do you need Jesus to quiet any storms in your life? He invites us to get away with Him in quiet time, prayer and worship. Sometimes we just need to be still and trust His sovereignty over our lives. He is faithful and He is able to do far more than we ask or can imagine. Through it all, keep your eyes on Jesus. The waves and winds of life still know His name.

This time away this week is refreshing and much needed. I’m thankful that my husband encourages me to spend time with friends. We are so thankful for the precious family who are letting us stay in their beautiful home. This time with my sisters in Christ is such a blessing as we laugh and talk together. I am so thankful.

I want to see if I can find a video of It is Well to share at the end of this blog. It is a beautiful song that speaks of contentment in life’s storms. It encourages us to keep our eyes on Jesus through it all. With Him, it is well!

If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. I write when God puts something on my heart. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. 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. Be blessed!

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29 Years Strong

May 1, 2023Leave a Comment

A cord of three is not easily broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12) As we sat in church yesterday morning I thought about how we were at the very same church 29 years ago exchanging our wedding vows. Twenty nine year of being together through thick and thin, serving the same Lord Jesus Christ that keeps us together.

A cord of three: husband, wife and Jesus, is not easily broken. It takes a lot of love, grace, forgiveness, humor and a whole lot of prayer. I’m thankful God brought me and Ron together all those years ago. He’s been a tremendous support to me and our son. We are blessed to have each other. We are not perfect, each having our short comings. The thing is, we never throw in the towel. We don’t esteem ourself above each other. We made a promise before God 29 years ago and we are determined to keep our promise to each other and God.

Marriage works with JOY. You might be thinking, what in the world is she talking about. Everyday of marriage is not joyous. Give me just a minute to draw this picture. J =Jesus, O=Others, Y=Yourself. If we put Jesus first then our spouse second, things will fall into place.

Marriage is like a thrilling rollercoaster. There are some unforgettable times of joy and excitement. There are also some scary and troubling times when you can’t see how things will work out. But God! God is the third cord that keeps us together. He is the glue that holds, when everything seems to be falling apart. He is our compass that keeps us moving in the right direction together. It’s not easy but it’s worth it. Our love has been tested by trials and is stronger today than it’s ever been. I’m thankful in those tough times we didn’t give up. We pushed through it together. A strong marriage is worth fighting for.

Happy anniversary Ron. I am proud to be your wife. You never meet a stranger. You share the love of God everywhere you go and it’s a marvel to see God working through you. I love you and look forward to celebrating many more years together.

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An inspiring encounter

April 20, 2023Leave a Comment

Just sat down with a cup of hot tea, while trying to gather my thoughts. It’s a rare day when I crank out two blog posts. I thought about combining this with the blog I published earlier today but this deserves its own entry.

My husband Ron and I went to Culver’s for lunch to get a good hamburger. As we walked in there was a guy with a table set up selling a children’s book he had written. Of course Ron started a conversation with him. Ron talks to everyone. As we stepped up to place our order, Ron told me the guy is blind. He is totally blind in one eye and can see slightly with the other. I said, “Let’s buy one of his books to support him.”

We sat down at a table close to where the guy had his table set up. I told Ron it takes great courage to do what this guy was doing. Ron told me I could set up a table too. I said, “ Would you talk to the people? He can hear what people are saying while I catch parts of it. ”

An inspiring blind author of children’s books.

After we finished eating, we went over introducing ourselves and purchased his book. He told us a little bit of his story and I told him a bit of mine and about my book. I watched with admiration as he signed the book for me. I personally don’t like to sign books in front of people because it’s hard to see what I’m writing. He had no issues with holding the book closely so he could see a little out of his one eye. I asked if I could have a picture taken with him and write a blog about meeting him. He agreed. Excuse my appearance in the picture. I had no intention of going anywhere today. It was a natural no makeup or hair products kind of day. This awesome inspiring guys name is Jared Jackson. As I brought the book home and put it under my video magnifier so I could read it, I discovered it is quite a cute book. Not only did he write it but he also did the illustrations. Check out Where Does the Man in the Moon Go During the Day? by Jared Jackson. You can find it on Amazon.

This was the first time I’ve ever met another blind author. I wanted to write this post to promote his book after reading it. He is a courageous inspiring man and did a fine job on his book. Check it out.

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Truth be told

April 20, 2023Leave a Comment

I’ve been meaning to write this since last weekend but I’m glad I put it off until now. An unexpected inspiration has given me new insight. “God winks”, those unexpected things that give me a little boost.

A few days ago I wrote this blogs title “Truth be told” and underneath it I typed the word inadequacy. Last weekend I celebrated my 54 th birthday. That’s a long time of being hearing and visually limited. While I don’t typically dwell on the limitations, a few situations sharpened my sense of inadequacy and left me feeling out of sorts. It’s a rare day when I share these things, but if it enlightens people to be compassionate to others around them then maybe it’s worth sharing.

Truth be told, many limitations are not easily seen. Truth be told, what appears normal may actually not be. (If that makes any sense.) Here are the things that flustered me last weekend. Mom and I had brunch at a new place called Poppyseed Kitchen. Our waitress recognized me and said , “I’m Coleman’s sister.” Coleman is our sons friend and I had not seen either of his sisters in a few years. The combination of an unexpected encounter and my limited vision can be embarrassing to say the least.

On Sunday we had a spontaneous day. We decided to go to our early church service so we could go hear my nephew preach at his late service. We never go to our early service so there was no sign language interpreter since they weren’t expecting me. I never expect life to be catered to me. I just go and in some way it ends up being a blessing. The blessing of the early service was my husbands attempt to help me understand. It was really sweet. We did a dash to my nephews church, where he is the Youth Pastor. I saw my mom. brother and his mother in law. Mom signed for me which was a blessing. After the service we saw my nephews daughter and her other Grandma. However I did not recognize my nephews wife. I inched over to Ron to discretely ask, “Who is that?” It is terribly embarrassing. I recognize people by sizes, shape, haircolor, style, and any distinguishable features. I can’t usually see detail on faces, unless I am very close By the time I recognize people it is usually too late.

Truth be told, I love people and if I could hear and see well, what a social butterfly I would be. But alas my hearing and vision are limited which sets me way back. It’s frustrating. A few tears just escaped my eyes. My limitations are not visible yet they keep me away from people unless the people are keen and compassionate to what I’m missing.

This morning as I was reading the Bible I came across Psalms 8:3-4, “When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have ordained, “What is man that You are mindful of him, And the son of man that You visit him?” (NKJV). I know God sees me in my limitations. He knows my needs and will provide in one way or another. Today He provided me with some inspiration.

As I was waiting for my husband to come pick me up I went out on our front porch. I wanted to see if I could see the Momma bird sitting on her nest on our bakers rack. A month or so ago, I was cleaning the front porch and discovered a well made empty birds nest. I figured it was from last year so I threw it away and rearranged the porch furniture. A few days later I noticed a little mess. The bird had begun building another nest! Such resilience! A few days ago I took a picture and zoomed in to see if the bird was on her nest. I couldn’t tell but Ron could! He showed me where the birds head and wings were and where the nest was in the picture. Oh what luxury to have good sight! So as I walked out on the porch today the bird flew away. I went back inside to grab my iPad to take a picture. I was curious if any eggs were in the nest. I took a picture and zoomed in. My heart filled with wonder and joy to discover two bird eggs. While the momma bird was surely watching from nearby to make sure her eggs stayed safe, my Abba Father is just as surely watching over me. Life is full of challenges and uncertainties but God is always there ready to strengthen and encourage us. We must take our focus off the problems and put them on God. I love this reminder, “And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬ ‭(NKJV‬‬)

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The heart of the matter

March 14, 2023Leave a Comment

What’s the state of your heart? It’s a pretty heavy question but begs an answer. All you have to do is turn your tv on, surf the web, see whats getting all the attention in society and the big arguments being heard everywhere and it spells depravity of hear! I’ve always been fascinated by why people act the way they do. More and more things are being twisted out of proportion. It makes me wonder where is logic? Do people even bother to think these days? It’s a relevant question worthy of consideration.

Right now I’m doing a couple of different Bible studies and reading through the Bible as well. It is astounding how stubborn the Israelites were in the Old Testament. One of the studies I’ve done recently talked about sheep and how incredibly stubborn they are. We can be referred to as sheep needing a shepherd. That particular lesson was on the Lord my Shepherd. It gave insight into how sheep behave and how Jesus provides for us, cares and protects us.

The lesson we discussed yesterday spoke on the Lord our righteousness. My Bible study sister asked me what difference knowing Jesus this way has made in my life. I told her it has made all the difference in the world. Because of Jesus sacrifice on the cross for my sins, because of his resurrection, because He forgives me when I confess my sins, He is my righteousness. When God looks at me, He sees His Son Jesus Christ. I’m forever thankful!

This evening I decided to cross reference a few of the scriptures to see how difference translations compare. I don’t typically read the Message but these next few verses I will share from the Message are quite interesting in that translation. “The heart is hopelessly dark and deceitful, a puzzle that no one can figure out. But I, God, search the heart and examine the mind. I get to the heart of the human. I get to the root of things. I treat them as they really are, not as they pretend to be.”” Jeremiah‬ ‭17‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭(MSG‬ ) OUCH!! I’ve done some pretending before, how about you?

‬ Here’s another one. “Everyone’s after the dishonest dollar, little people and big people alike. Prophets and priests and everyone in between twist words and doctor truth. My people are broken—shattered!— and they put on Band-Aids, Saying, ‘It’s not so bad. You’ll be just fine.’ But things are not ‘just fine’! Do you suppose they are embarrassed over this outrage? No, they have no shame. They don’t even know how to blush. There’s no hope for them. They’ve hit bottom and there’s no getting up. As far as I’m concerned, they’re finished.” God has spoken.” Jeremiah‬ ‭6‬:‭13‬-‭15‬ ‭(MSG‬‬)

Whoa! Now that’s our present society right there! There are so so many half truths, flat our lies and darkness that people try to “ superficially heal”.

What the world needs is the Light of Jesus shining bright and exposing sins. God knows the helpless state of humanity, that’s why He gave us the new covenant. He wants to take away the hearts of stone and put His laws in our hearts. Ezekiel 36: 26-27 says, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.” (NKJV)

I find it so amazing how the Bible is so relevant today. It’s God’s love letter to us. It’s our instruction book to get through this life. I don’t know about you but falling in love with Jesus and accepting His free gift of salvation is the best thing I’ve ever done. The prayer of my heart is like King David’s in Psalms 51:10, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (NKJV)

God understands our desperate need for Him. Sometimes in the chaos of dealing with life, He seems so far away He is right there with you every step of the way. He can give you a new heart. He desires to be the “lover of your soul”.

The Bible study I refer to in this blog is written by Kay Arthur. It is called Lord I want to know you. I purchased the digital version but have also seen her Bible studies on Amazon. I have done many of her studies. They take you deeper into The Word of God.

If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. Be blessed.

Www.shannonkhinson.com
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What do you reflect?

February 3, 20231 Comment

Seeing the sky reflected on water is one of the most captivating sights to me. One of my favorite things to see is the moons reflection off the ocean. It’s the very simple things in life that I find compelling and nature always speaks of the things of God.

Just like physical things are reflected in a mirror, shiny surface or water: what’s in our heart is reflected by our attitudes and actions. Proverbs 27:19 says, “As a face is reflected in water, so the heart reflects the real person.” (‭NLT‬)

Being hearing and visually limited, I often find myself thinking of deep things. When I am out in public, what am I reflecting? Do I reflect my Savior? Can people tell I am a Christian by my responses to situations? Am I reflecting love, kindness, gentleness and self control, just to name a few. Don’t get me wrong, I am far from perfect. I just tend to think about these types of things.

Human nature is so fascinating. I often wonder what makes people tick. We all deal with the desires of the flesh and struggle with responding in ways contrary to the flesh. Alone we can’t make these better choices. However the Holy Spirit is always willing to guide us forth in victory when we surrender our desires and seek to reflect Jesus. It’s a daily challenge we all face. We will fall short but Jesus is always willing to strengthen us to rise up again to reflect all He is.

Let me encourage you this weekend to be a reflection of Jesus! The world desperately needs to see God in us. If you liked this blog post please subscribe. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. Be blessed.

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Keep on!

January 10, 2023Leave a Comment

This is day 10 of 2023 and I’m just now stopping to blog. I decided to read through the Bible again this year in the New Living Translation. As I’ve been reading I’ve made notes on a few possible blog topics. Today I will focus on “Keeping on”. I came across this verse as I was reading recently. It’s a perfect verse for this first blog of the year. “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.” Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Keep on asking! God wants us to bring our concerns to Him. He delights when we choose to pray and acknowledge His Lordship over our lives. I love how God has revealed aspects of my relationship with Him through being a Mom. It warms my heart when my grown son seeks me out just to talk and share his life with me. God is my Heavenly Father, and He delights in me praying and seeking Him out to share my heart.

Keep on seeking! I want to know God more and more. Through studying the Bible, learning in church, worship and fellowship, I desire to grow into all He desires for me. Never become satisfied with where you are in your relationship with Jesus. There is always room to grow closer in our walk with Him. Study Jesus character and how He handled situations. I want to be a reflection of who He is. As I seek you Lord, change me!

Keep on knocking! As we ask, seek and knock He will reveal more to us. I want to walk in God’s will for my life. I desire to be the woman He created me to be. I desire to fulfill His call to shine for Him.

Keep on being You! I love when people are real and genuine. We are all human and make mistakes. We all need grace. As God freely gives us grace, be sure to give it to others.

Keep on finding joy in the little things in life. Last Sunday there was a young mom sitting behind me in church with her precious baby daughter. After the service I was marveling at the sweetness of this precious child and she let me hold her. Oh the simple joy and delight in holding a tiny baby.

Keep on finding fun in the ordinary things. My husband and I went to get our hair cut today. The same girl does both of our hair. I was showing her a picture of what I wanted and as I zoomed in ( I have low vision) we saw it was a wig. We all started laughing and I said to Ron, “A wig would solve your problem of having to bring me to get haircuts!” We were all laughing. I turned to our hairstylist and said “This is us!” Life is life, but you can find joy and laughter in the ordinary.

So whatever you do as you start off this year keep on keeping on. God has us. Keep looking to Him and He will direct you.

If you liked this blog post please subscribe. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. Be blessed.

Gods got you!
“What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭10‬:‭29‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Wrap it up

December 28, 20224 Comments

As 2022 winds down to a close, where do you find yourself? Some people take inventory of their lives at the close of the year and make goals for the new year. We live and hopefully learn along the way so we can move forward. Experience is a great teacher.

Whatever happened in 2022, it’s in the past. We all stumble and fall short. I’m so thankful for the grace of God! When I confess my sins to Jesus, He forgives me. Sometimes we get hung up on past mistakes and defeats. We have to forgive ourselves too and show ourselves grace so we can move forward.

The devil is constantly bringing up our shortcomings so we feel unworthy and unloved. Let me remind you that the devil is the father of lies! (John 8:44)

If you find yourself in a pit of despair, climb out! You might like your little comfort zone. Im speaking to myself here as well. When I close myself off to people and stay comfortable in life, I don’t grow. God has ordained us to make a difference for His kingdom. I believe my purpose in life is to bring God glory. I can’t do that in my comfort zone.

Is God saying to you, “Why are you walking in defeat?” Don’t let this world define you! Rise up to be all God is calling you to be. You might be saying, “But no one understands what I’m going through. “ Let me tell you something,, Jesus fully understands! He left His throne where He had full authority. He chose to be born as a baby to poor young parents. He was fully God and fully human. He understands. Turn your eyes on Jesus. Look to Him in every situation. He cares about every detail of our lives. Nothing is too big or too small to take to Him in prayer. He is always there waiting for you to come to Him. You are never alone.

Recently I was reading Isaiah 40. I love the whole chapter but the last verse struck me as I read the New Living Translation. “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” Isaiah‬ ‭40‬:‭31‬ ‭(NLT‬‬). For some reason the word soar really stood out to me. It was like the Holy Spirt dropped that word into my heart for 2023. I’ve heard people say before that God gives them a word for the new year but this was my first experience with this.

I’m not sure exactly what God is trying to tell me but I know this: as I fix my eyes upon Jesus, and wait upon Him , He will renew my strength for whatever lies ahead. He will enable me to soar. It won’t be in my own strength but in His. If you know my story you might be shaking your head. This girl is legally blind and deaf, hearing with a cochlear implant. What in the world can she do? On my own… nothing! But all things are possible with God! (Mark 10:27). I love this next verse as it is so encouraging to me. “Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

As we wrap up 2022 and prepare for 2023, don’t be afraid. Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Read these next two verses. I love this so much. “But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.” Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭1-2‬( ‭NLT‬‬)
Here is another verse that I love. “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

I have truly shared my heart with you as2022 is coming to a close. Let me speak truth over you as you step into the new year. “So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do.” 2 Thessalonians‬ ‭1‬:‭11‬ ‭(NLT‬) I love God Word. Now rise up and soar into the new year! ‭‭

All scriptures are from, You Version app. I love this app so much because it makes reading the Bible assessable with my low vision.

Sought & Found ~ Great Joy

December 24, 2022Leave a Comment

I can’t tell you how light my heart has been these last few weeks. As I sit in the early mornings with just the Christmas tree lights on, it is utterly peaceful. These early morning times are spent in prayer and reading the Bible. I do this everyday year round , minus the Christmas tree lights which are only on in December and part of January. These times with Jesus set the pace for my day.

As the Christmas Carol goes, Joy to the world the Lord is come. Let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare Him room…. I will stop right there. I personally opened my heart to Jesus years ago. He is the greatest gift from God. He fills my heart with great Joy. I have sought and found Him and my confidence is in Him for all my needs. He fills my life with great joy and helps me have perspective on the hard things in life.

You might scoff at my view and think I live under a rock. Yes I know all the troubles going on in the world. Yes I see the suffering. Life is tough. Being legally blind and deaf is a day to day challenge that few understand. BUT God gives me such great determination and strength to endure. It’s not about me and having it all easy. It’s about Jesus and bringing glory to His name.

Jesus is the best and most Undescribable gift! Like the shepherds and wise men who eagerly followed the star and found baby Jesus in a manager, in a stable. When they found Him they were filled with awe and joy. Have you sought Jesus? He is waiting for you to make room in your heart amd life for Him.

Christmas is a promise kept. (God keeps All His promises) The prophets foretold Jesus birth hundreds of years before it happened. Wow! What an awesome God we serve. As I typed that I actually started singing the worship chorus… My God is awesome, He can move a mountain, keep me in the valley. Hide me from the rain. My God is awesome, heals me when I’m broken, strength when I am weary, forever He will reign. I’m sitting here with tears streaming down my cheeks. I might not have the words exactly right but my heart is in tune with my Lord.

Do you know Jesus? He is the greatest gift you will ever get! When you accept Him as your Lord and Savior and confess and repent of your sins, He forgives you and fills you with such peace.

If you have wandered away from the faith, come home to Jesus! He is the only thing that will ever satisfy your soul. The world is filled with distractions and momentary pleasures but they won’t ever fill your heart. There is a place in our hearts that only Jesus can fill. Make room! Don’t turn Him away.

Dear Jesus I pray for all who read this, I pray you will open their eyes to your truth, your word, your love. As we prepare to celebrate your birth, I pray we each worship you with all our hearts and rejoice in the gift you give. It’s all about you Jesus! Show us the way! Shine brightly for the whole world to see! I love you Lord! Happy birthday Jesus? Amen!

Merry Christmas to you all! If you liked this blog post please subscribe. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. Be blessed.