#Christianliving – Page 2 – rootedbythewater.blog

Your pain is NOT in vain

October 22, 2025October 22, 2025Leave a Comment

I just made a big pot of tomato basil soup for dinner since it is ministry day and dinner will be ready when I get home later. My can opener apparently needs replacing, as I had the hardest time opening a can of broth for the soup, but I managed to open it enough, just barely. Now that soup is in the crockpot, I’m studying todays devotion to share with our homeless friends.

It is interesting how God works these devotions in my heart before I can honestly and transparently share with others. This devotion for today came to me one piece at a time. A few weeks ago I saw a pastor use chains as a promp to emphasize his point. On Sunday as God brought this to me, I was greatly frustrated. As I sat praying and meditating, the thought came to make a long paper chain to symbolize things that weigh us down, spiritual bondage for unbelievers and our “hang ups” in life. I knew one day all that construction paper would come to use.

I was unable to go to church Sunday for something completely out of my control. (we woke to a lot of water in part of our back yard. Our neighbors had a pipe burst and they weren’t home.) I was frustrated. I “need” the Word to strengthen me for the week. I watched several online services but I can’t comprehend it all. I was like, “Lord you know if I could see well enough to drive, I’d be able to go. Why do I have to deal with this dependence on others for these things?” Usually it doesn’t bother me, but occasionally it “boils up” and I have to let that frustration out, sometimes in the form of tears. So I made a LONG paper chain and I plan to “bust through them tonight” to show how Jesus can break every single chain.

Pain, whether it be physical or emotional can weigh us down. Frustration, anxiety, worry, addiction, bitterness, unforgiveness, pride, deception, and ANYTHING that weighs you down, God can set us free from. John 8:36 says, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”‭‭(ESV‬‬) Jesus does want us to fully surrender to His Lordship and lean on HIm for strength. Our test can become a testimony when we give it to Jesus.

Another verse I plan to share is Isaiah 43:2: When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” I love that verse. Notice how it says “when you pass through the waters, I will be with you.” You ARE going to go through things but the promise is that, God is with us as we go through it. Notice how it says “though the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you.” Think about a river; there’s water currents, rocks, critters, etc but the promise is that it will not overwhelm us. When we walk through fiery things in life, it’s not going to burn or consume us because God is with us.

I also feel impressed to share about the Apostle Paul’s “thorn” that he shared in 2 Corinthians 12. The Bible doesn’t tell us what the thorn in his flesh was, but it does say it tormented him. Three times Paul asks God to take it from him. Three times! 2 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬ ‭says, “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”(ESV) Wow! That’s my goal to be able to boast about my weaknesses because Jesus power rests upon me. And for the record, I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve asked God to rid me of these visual and hearing problems. Too many times to count. Then the unforeseeabke pain of having to see our son deal with it too. Life is not fair. Not many can grasp the frustration, BUT GOD! His grace IS sufficient for HIS power is made perfect in my weakness.

Do you see how God works this in my heart before todays lesson? Oh my goodness! Lord fill me and give me the words to encourage these people today. Life can be tough. and they need the encouragement to surrender to Jesus and let Him help them through life. Say a prayer that seeds will be planted and chains will be broken in Jesus name!

http://www.shannonkhinson.com.

The purge in process

October 16, 2025Leave a Comment

A purge is in process over here lately. We got rid of two sofas and one love seat to begin with. The sofas were both broken in one way or another, and I was shocked to see Ron and Joshua totally demolish one in order to carry it off to the dump, piece by piece. (too bad I didn’t get a picture of it) However, I think Joshua did take a picture and sent it to his friend who sometimes stays here when he is over this way. His friend said , “I guess I will have to sleep on the floor now”. Joshua told hm he could sleep on Grandpa’s recliner and maybe he’d pick up Grandpa’s golf talent.

That started cleaning out broken or unwanted things and rearranging furniture for new sofas. As I moved things around I took everything off bookcases so I could move them. I didn’t realize how many books I had until I took them of the shelves. Oh my goodness! Let’s just say, I like to read. The sad part is that I can no longer see well enough to read “printed” books so those books would never be read by me again. ( I now read ebooks) I started sorting the books and ended up with three bags full of books to donate to GoodWill. However, I kept my favorites.

The day the new sofas came, my mom came over to see. She also helped me rearrange the books I had kept. I had already gotten rid of the three bags full of books for Good Will but still had many favorites left. She said, “Shannon, why are you keeping all those books if you can’t see them to read again”? She had a good point. When she left I went through what remained again and pulled out some great devotioals, and encouraging books. I sat those aside to take to the homeless ministry. I put some of my favorite series of Christian fiction aside and I’m trying to figure out what to do with those. It does feel good to be getting rid of things I won’t use again and someone else might enjoy them.

Last night when I went to the homeless ministry to help serve dinner and teach a devotion, I brought the bag of devotional and encouraging books with me and set them up on the table. They were quickly taken. It turned out that quite a few of them like to read. Maybe next week I can bring some of the Christian fiction books I have for them to enjoy. We also have Bibles for anyone who might want one. Last night I offered a Bible to a young man. He asked , “How much?” I told him it was free and he was welcome to have one. He took one and I pray he reads it. God’s Word is alive and active!

Now the next purge should be the closet, as I switch around seasonal clothes. Maybe I’ll end up with more things to share with our homeless friends. Then we definitely need to go through the attic. Oh my gosh! ! The thing about the attic, the dust sets off my allergies and my eyes end up puffy and I end up sneezing constantly. But it has to be done.

I honestly don’t go into the attic much. Two months ago was actually the first time I went in this year. I was wondering why Christmas things were right inside the attic door, blocking my entrance. Then I remembered my fall on ice last January, obtaining a compression fracture to my lower back. That was immediately followed bye covid, flu A and flu B: so I never did any decorating this year until Fall. I guess. I’m going to have to get some safety goggles and mask for the attic job. Hopefully I will get up there before Christmas when the attic is cooler.

Mom said I was sort of a hoarder but I beg to differ. With my visua issues it makes the job of getting rid of stuff so much longer. For example, going through the books, I had to take them to my video magnifying machine to see what some of them said. It just makes a tedious job way more annoying. I’m just being honest here. The thing is, the longer you live, if you don’t occasionally rid yourself of things, it piles up then is overwhelming. Getting rid of the broken furniture has set the “purging ball” rolling. Wish me luck as I continue with the task.

On a totally different note, we can also purge ourselves of unnecessary personal spiritual baggage that weighs us down. That was kind of my topic for the devotion I shared last night: Uprooting bitterness in our hearts. God gives us a new day, the present that is a gift. We are meant to walk in the freedom He gives, not weighed down by bitterness and past hurts. Bitterness tells us to remember the hurt. Grace says to remember the cross of Jesus. People are prone to making mistakes. No one is perfect. We need to adjust our expectations accordingly. Luke‬ ‭23‬:‭34‬ says, “Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice.” (NLT‬‬) Another scripture I shared was Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭31 that says, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.” (NLT) My husband Ron and I were talking about the devotion last night. He said you can see in the peoples faces that many are searching for the truth. God grant us all the ability to pour Your truth out for the “thirsty”. Please pray as the Lord leads for direction, wisdom and all seeds planted will take root and produce a harvest for the glory of God.

Now back to my purging of stuff. Have a blessed beyond measure kind of day. You are loved.

http://www.shannonkhinson.com

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Sheeple

October 5, 2025Leave a Comment

Just a “heads up”, this is NOT a political post. Actually, it’s far from that. I have put off blogging this week. Just praying, thinking and praying some more. Truth is, I’ve been thinking about sheep. How random is that? But I honestly can be “off the wall random” at times. Stick with me as I process this.

Let’s talk about sheep. Not long ago I read a Charles Martin book called The Keeper. In that book, one of the characters repeatedly asks,”What do you know about sheep?” I did a google search just out of curiosity and turns out sheep are quite intriguing. According to http://www.four-paws.org sheep are quite intelligent and have impressive memory. They can recognize other sheep and human faces. Sheep recognize emotions by facial expressions and prefer a smile over a frown. Sheep also developed friendships, sticking up for each other and show sadness. ( https://www.four-paws.org/campaigns-topics/topics/farm-animals/10-facts-about-sheep ) I also discovered sheep have strong flocking and following instincts, being highly social and docile, meaning submissive and willing to accept control. These animals have some fascinating features including their unique eyesight and scent glands not only on their faces but also hind paws. Google for more information on those things. For the sake of this blog, I’m going to stick with the above.

What is so interesting is the Bible refers to us as sheep. Let’s look at Isaiah 53:6, “All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” (NKJV‬‬) Here is another verse referring to us like sheep. “Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.” Psalms‬ ‭100‬:‭3‬ ‭(NKJV‬‬). I could actually reference quite a few verses here, but let’s look back at that list of characteristics. People and sheep do seem to have quite a bit in common and we do accept control and are submissive when persuaded. Thus the term “sheeple”. If you look up that word online it will say people who are like sheep being foolish, docile and easily led. Um…. sounds familiar. We are in need of Jesus. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.” John‬ ‭10‬:‭11‬ ‭(NKJV). The comforting image in the Bible of Jesus being our Shepherd, protecting and guiding us. He will leave the 99 to go after one lost sheep who has wandered off. (See Luke 15:4-7) We all need the guidance and loving protection of Jesus. Psalms 23 is so beautiful. Let’s consider the first four verses. “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭(NKJV). According to these four verses, Jesus takes care of our needs, as He leads us along the paths of righteousness. Yes He does have to use His rod and staff to guide and direct us. We get out of hand sometimes, but He is always willing to bring us back into the fold. Even when we are going through hard and difficult times, we don’t have to walk in fear. He comforts us. Let’s not be stubborn in our walk but rather submit to His Lordship and pursue a deep satisfying relationship with our Savior.

This is what’s been on my heart lately. I kept thinking and praying about the next thing to do a devotion on with our homeless and low income friends. “What do you know about sheep?”, kept coming to mind. Unless God changes my direction, my blog notes will end up being the devotion notes for Wednesday night. I think I’ll add a music video to end this blog. Be blessed this week and listen closely to the voice of Jesus as He directs our paths.
http://www.Shannonkhinson.com

Lessons from a kayak outting

September 25, 2025September 25, 2025Leave a Comment

Our “turning point”: Atlantic Ocean to the right and Intercoastal Waterway to the left.

I love when you can find Bible principles in hobbies you enjoy. Today I used kayaking as an illustration for the Bible verses I shared. Wednesdays find me helping with a low income and homeless ministry where we feed the people and I give a short devotion. It’s an honor to be a part of this ministry. I aim to show compassion and transparency, being mindful that none of us are perfect. I demonstrate a need for God’s strength in a daily way. We all have different circumstances, however we can encourage each other, especially through the Bible.

Recently I came across a post on social media that was talking about what makes a boat sink. It’s not the water around the boat, but the water that gets inside the boat, that weighs it down. That made me think of our kayaking outting last Friday. My friend Leasa and I took kayaks out on the coastal canal and intercoastal waterway. Before we set off, we checked the kayaks for water that was inside. Turning the kayaks long way up and unplugging to release internal water, before plugging them again.

For some reason I knew there was a Bible principle there. I texted my friend Amy and told her I was looking for a Bible reference and explained what I was thinking. She referred me to Hebrew 12:1 which says, ”Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin that clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” (ESV). Sin can be like water in a kayak. Sin can weigh us down. One sin can lead to another and before you know it you are spiritually drowning. Sins cling to us, kind of like bad habits. We need Jesus forgiveness and strength to say no to sin.

I went back to the kayaking illustration. Once we were paddling along the canal we had to “keep our eye on the goal”. At the end of the canal we would turn a left corner and head back along the Intercoastal Waterway. On the canal we had to paddle hard against the tide. We had to “look beyond” the momentary resistance of the tide and remember the “turning point” was ahead, way ahead. Life is like that. We have to keep our spiritual eyes on Jesus, enduring the momentary circumstances and hardships we find ourselves in. As Christians, this world is not our home. We keep our eyes focused on Jesus, who will strengthen us and see us through this journey called life. I continued with Hebrews 12:2. “looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (ESV‬‬) I explained how Jesus endured the cross, knowing what was coming, He looked beyond it to the joy that was before Him. He knew He was providing redemption for all mankind. He was making a way for us to be with Him forever with The Father, through His sacrifice on the cross. We too, must look beyond our hardships towards the prize to which we are called. I encouraged everyone to keep their eyes on Jesus and if they didn’t know Jesus, we’d be happy to pray with them.

I love this opportunity to serve each week. Ron and I were talking on the drive there today. I told him a lot of people won’t take the time for low income and homeless people but they are worthy of compassion and kindness too. Showing compassion toward the vulnerable expresses a faith that is genuine. James 1:27 emphasizes this point. “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” (ESV‬‬). So thankful for this opportunity to serve. I encourage you to look for a ministry, church or organization to serve others. As we serve the least of these, we in turn are serving the Lord. Your heart will swell with joy as you minister comfort to others.

Be blessed and better yet, Be a Blessing! You are loved!

http://www.shannonkhinson.com.

Gotta Love It

September 21, 2025September 21, 2025Leave a Comment

Screenshot of Charlie Kirk’s Memeorial service today.

Truth be told, I am too tired to blog today but after seeing this point in history my exhaustion is going to have to momentarily step aside. I returned home last night from my week away with my deaf girlfriends. Going from one sensory dominance of using vision even though mine is low, (the irony) to being back home where I rely on auditory sensory dominance thanks to my cochlear implant…… I am physically and mentally worn out today. For anyone who doesn’t know, I am legally blind and deaf without my cochlear implant processor on.

This morning I did watch our early church service and will need to watch it again to fully ”get it”. Other than that, I’ve just rested all day. Too tired to nap. I did want to tune in to Charlie Kirk’s Memorial service and I’m so glad I did! I only watched a short bit of it because I truly am exhausted, I did want to see “history in the making”. I also wanted to see Genesis 50:20 in modern times playing out before our very eyes! My spirit is revived seeing “God turning this around”!!!! “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.”Genesis‬ ‭50‬:‭20‬ ‭(ESV‬) Won’t He do it!!! You see, what the enemy meant for harm, God is turning around for HIS GLORY!!! Halllelujah!!! That State Farm Stadium was maxed out with people giving tribute to a Legend who loved God and stood for our freedoms! Look at God!!! AND……. thousands and thousands more were outside the stadium!!!! AND…… it was televised to millions!!!!! Thank you Lord for bringing good out of this evil act that was committed when your servant Charlie Kirk was assissinated. Thank you for bringing Glory to Your name through this horrible violence.

Two weeks ago it was a rough week with all that was going on in the nation plus some personal things. The beach trip was much needed. After a shift from rough week mode, to restful vacation mode, back to real life mode, I will be “good to go” soon. Seeing part of the Memeorial service today brought joy to my heart and Praise to my Lord. I was told two weeks ago by a childhood friend who though is a Christian but a polar opposite in political beliefs, that she was on the “right” side of this mess. I just let it go. I can’t change people’s minds but I can pray that God opens spiritual eyes to see things as they really are and stand for unity in Christ. All we can do is PRAY, BE STILL and WATCH THE SALVATION OF THE LORD!

And (I know I’m not supposed to start a sentence with and….. oh well) as is my usual state of being, a song is playing in my heart and it’s probably not the right words. 😂Can’t wait until I get to Heaven so I can sing with the Saints and not have to just move my lips because I can’t carry a tune, until then ”I’m calling on the name, that changes everything. God turn it around, God turn it around, God turn it around….. all of my hope is in the name, the name of Jesus. Victory comes, comes in the name, the name of Jesus”. Umm….. well I think that’s how it goes. That’s how it’s going in my heart right now. As I said I’m tired. Going to sent this off to publish and go rest!!! Excited to see what God’s going to do. I asked Siri to show me a picture of God stomping on the enemy and the below pictures came up. So timely!!!! Be Blessed!

Glimpse of His Glory

September 17, 2025Leave a Comment

My view while laying on the beach today.

There is just something about nature that really gets me tuned in to God. Between watching the sunset, watching the tide go in and out, seeing the ripples of the water currents, crashing of waves and seeing the antics of the seagulls makes me think about God our Creator and sustainer, the Author of life itself. Psalms 19:1 says, “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.”(ESV‬‬) That scripture is so very true. Between the colors God paints the sunrise and sunset with to the cloud formations, it’s stunning!

This week away has been much needed, especially after last week with things going on in our nation. Looking in the book of Romans it all comes together. Let’s take a look. “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceive, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.” Romans‬ ‭1‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭(ESV‬‬) That’s where we are folks. Creation clearly proclaims God’s eternal power yet people are spiritually blind as a bat. With the assassination of Charlie Kirk last week and seeing people actually celebrating murder was the most evil thing I’ve ever seen. BUT…. Of course there is a BUT…… from what I understand, church attendance is up and people are turning to prayer. My friends and I sat on the deck last night and watched Central Church of God livestream prayer service. It was amazing! While the enemy tries to keep us divided with misinformation, many are choosing to unite in prayer to seek the face of God!

This morning as I sat on the porch overlooking the canal at the beach, my heart turned to prayer and praise. As I sat there a song I used to play on the piano came to mind and tears came to my eyes. I will add the music video at the end of this blog. It is Well by Kristene Elizabeth DiMarco and Bethel Music. I will put some of the lyrics but the YouTube video has lyrics added. Grander earth has quaked before. Moved by the sound of his voice. And seas that are shaken and stirred, Can be calmed and broken for my regard. Through it all, through it all. My eyes are on you. Through it all, through it all. It is well. Through it all. Through it all. My eyes are on you and it is well, with me. Far be it from me not to believe. Even when my eyes can’t see. And this mountain that’s in front of me, will be thrown into the midst of the sea. I especially love the “bridge”: So let go my soul and trust in him. The waves and wind still know his name. So let go my soul and trust in him. The waves and wind still know his name. (2014 Beth Music and Kristene Elizabeth DiMarco)

That song sure does move me to tears. Having low vision and being hearing impaired, I understand having to depend on faith, even when my eyes can’t see what I am hoping for. I can honestly tell you there are quite a few mountains I’d love to see God throw into the midst of the sea. As I wait, I can be sure that the waves and winds still know His name and because of that fact I can say it is well with my soul.

As I laid on the beach today, I was watching the cloud formation. It was a sunny day but a few clouds rolled in blocking the sun. As I watched the sun would break through different “holes” in the clouds and the sun would shine through. As I watched, the clouds moved together to once again block the sun but there was a “glow” that seemed to come from behind those clouds. It was like glimpses of God’s glory shining forth despite the clouds. That’s just like life. Things happen in life that seem to cloud our vision and bring despair, but we must remember that we might not “see” God, yet He is still there just behind that problem or situation. He is always working behind the scenes to bring about His perfect Will. He always has our best interests in mind. Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus! He is the author and finisher of our faith. (Hebrews 12:2) Jesus begins it, sustains it and brings it to completion. Keep on holding on. Even when life gets “cloudy”, look for glimpses of His glory. They are there. Be blessed! I better go to sleep. It’s almost 1:00 in the morning. Good night.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

The “shape”of Love

September 11, 2025Leave a Comment

A small pocket cross, reminding me of Jesus’ love.

This has been one of those days/ weeks when I could write a couple of blogs on different topics or as troubled as I am by recent events, I could just be silent. I’m going to attempt a blend of these.

Today would have been my Dad’s 83 birthday. We sure do miss him but know he’s in the best place with Jesus. I miss his wisdom and insight and would have been seeking out his counsel over recent local and national events. (Excuse my run on sentence) Dad worked hard for our family but always took time for us and our activities. He’d come to our games/ activities then go back to work and stay until his work was done. Some of his long time employees truly loved him and Mom. They seemed like family. Most of all he was a man of faith. He loved Jesus and served the less fortunate at his church’s food pantry.

This morning my brother sent a little group text to me and Mom, sharing a picture video of memories with Dad. It brought a big smile to my face and he sent Dad’s signature emoji 😎 We sure do miss him and continue to live out his legacy of faith, family and service to others. I told them in this mornings group text that we should do something to celebrate him by looking out for others. He was always doing that. I knew him many times to bless someone without them ever knowing it was him. With an upcoming beach trip with girlfriends I got some snacks today I knew the others would like. That is something Dad would have done.

He would have liked the devotion I taught last night for the homeless and less fortunate friends we have. Last night I shared on biblical love and how much God loves us all. I asked my husband if I could buy some pocket sized crosses to give out and he agreed. I shared the following verses. “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” John‬ ‭15‬:‭13‬ ‭(ESV‬‬) Following this, I shared two verses from 1 John 4 at the end of verse 16, “God is love, and all who live in love, live in God, and God lives in them.” And also verse 19, “We love because God first loved us” (NLT) This sets the stage for understanding that God’s very nature is love. He doesn’t just show love, He IS love. He loved us first. The end of the devotion was sharing 1 Corinthians 13 on biblical love. It is so different than worldly love. Lord help us to demonstrate Your love to the world. After I finished, I told the people about the crosses we had brought for them. I carried one in my pocket many years ago. Now I have a cross necklace I wear. I explained I knew some days can be tough. You can reach in your pocket, feel the cross and remember God’s love for us. He sent His only son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins. (John 3:16).

It was a somber time because we heard Charlie Kirk had been assassinated. However being a little short on volunteers, we all worked together to love and serve the people who were there. It’s about being the “hands and feet of Jesus”. I love being a part of this.

We were exhausted when we got home but we wanted to know what had happened to Charlie Kirk. We were shocked and saddened at what we discovered. He was only 31 years old. A loving husband and father and champion for Faith Family and Freedom. What has baffled me the most besides the tragedy itself is the comments and rash remarks made. Even more perplexing is people making it about racism. The world is truly evil and troubling. This is not politics as usual people! This is spiritual warfare! “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭(NKJV‬‬) We are really living in evil times.

There was also the stabbing of the Ukrainian refugee on the light rail train in Charlotte. Totally unprovoked. She was a beautiful young lady who had fled war torn Ukraine but was murdered in cold blood in Charlotte NC. She didn’t get a second chance in life, but her killer got 14 chances and released from jail again. SICK world. Our justice system is such a failure. When people have dogs that are known to attack those dogs are put down. Meanwhile multiple time offenders are released back on the streets to do it again or worse. This is outrageous!

Bottom line, we are in a time where evil runs widespread. We have to stay Prayed up and constantly aware. Do you know Jesus? These days, you never know when it might be your last and like the young lady who was stabbed, you might not get a second chance. Praise God for His love, grace and mercy. He is always ready to wrap you in His loving arms when we surrender to Him and confess our sins. There is no time like the present to ask Jesus into your heart to be your Lord and Savior. Let Him turn your life around for His glory, honor and praise.

Lord helps us shine for you in this dark evil world. Shine brightly Jesus for the whole world to see. 🙏🏼 Be blessed, and better yet, Be a Blessing.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

The power of the tongue

September 5, 2025Leave a Comment

Toothpaste tube under pressure = a mess!

You might be wondering about the above picture. Let me briefly explain. Two days ago I shared a devotion with our low income and homeless friends. The devotion time is 10-15 minutes so I pray for a powerful impact in a short time. That night I used the toothpaste demonstration to show how when under pressure, tooth paste is going to come quickly out, oozing in a mess. The same thing goes for the words that come out of our mouths. I was trying to decide whether to share this in a blog post, but considering so many people have trouble “holding their tongue” I figured it wouldn’t hurt.

Let’s be real! Our words can have a very powerful and lasting effect on us and others. We are wise to choose carefully the things we say. I shared Proverbs 18:21, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” ‭(ESV‬‬), explaining there are consequences to the things we say. We can build up with genuine encouragement or we can tear down with gossip, negativity and complaints. It is astounding how words can have such a lasting sting or comfort. Can you think of a time or two when you have experienced this? I certainly can. For example, I am not the best with receiving “praise” simply because my hearts desire is to be humble. When people speak words of kindness and encouragement over me it truly means so much. Another example is being hurt by misunderstandings and gossip. I don’t have trouble forgiving but forgetting and moving forward after something like that takes God’s healing touch. It is wise to be mindful of the things we say and how they have an impact. I do realize sometimes people need to “vent”, just be careful to whom you vent so it doesn’t go into the “gossip-mill”.

Another thing that baffles me is when people get “heated” and strong language comes out. I shared the following scripture in my devotion. The every end of Luke 6:45 says, “What you say, flows from what is in your heart.” So if our words are rash, critical, negative complaints, we need to take a look at what’s in our heart. We might think “no one sees what’s in my heart”, that’s true BUT our actions and words reflect what’s there. Ephesians 4:29 says, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” (ESV‬‬)

The last scripture I shared comes from the book of James. “but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.” James‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬-‭10‬ ‭(ESV‬‬) I explained at the end of the devotion that we all need God to help us control our words. Several of the people thanked me afterwards. It is truly something everyone needs to be aware of whether you are a Christian or not. The tongue is powerful. From the toothpaste demonstration, what comes out can’t easily be put back in, so choose your words wisely.

Hope everyone has an amazing weekend. Be blessed, and better yet, be a Blessing!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

The Art of Conversing

August 23, 2025Leave a Comment

Here’s a little “peek” into my world. As an observer of human nature I find it interesting to watch people having conversations. The back and forth flow of words, smiles and laughter. It intrigues me and makes me slightly jealous at peoples skills in the “art”. Yes I call it an “art”. Today I watched the back and forth on a FaceTime. I am training to learn how to really share the phototherapy technology I’ve been using and love. I would never promote something unless I honestly believe it works and I do. So here I am going way beyond myself with watching zoom meetings and imitating FaceTime calls. If you told me I’d be doing this I would have laughed out loud. But I will let you all laugh along with me asI learn: trail and error.

Now back to conversing. From my perspective on today’s zoom I felt a bit like I was in a tennis match of sorts. A Volley back and forth of information and questions. Spoken language is so very different than sign language but I never want to limit myself to one type of dialogue. In all honestly, I prefer text or written language. The backspace is awesome! Yes, I’m over here laughing at that little joke. As I more watched today’s FaceTime than participated, honestly I have to zoom in to see the faces well and the lighting doesn’t always help. So many factors when it comes to Total communication: putting what I hear and what I see together and trust me, I am missing some gaps here and there. Very thankful for a patient caring friend who knows what she’s doing and can sign as well. I am learning a lot and thankful for the journey and stretching of myself.

This afternoon was another type of conversing at a baby shower for a friends daughter. There were both deaf, hearing impaired and hearing people there so lots of different types of conversation going on. It’s interesting because deaf people can converse in a loud group from across the room. I suppose people who talk loud can too. Just an observation. I on the other hand have to be fairly close to do either; understand speech or read signs and I’m always missing something. However, written language I can understand and retain.

Just a little reflection tonight as I think back on today. Honestly all I can do is try my best and let the pieces fall where they will. My gifts are encouraging and prayer. I’m the kind of person that meets you where you are, not expecting anything but just wanting to give hope to keep moving forward. We are all different with such a variety of talents and skills. Let’s encourage each other to be the very best version of who we are and strive to keeps stretching ourselves to learn new things. One day, God willing, I will master the “art” of conversing. I do fairly well one on one, but add more people and I’m lost in the “volley” of words, signs and faces. Just being real. Hope everyone enjoys the rest of their weekend. Be blessed and better yet, Be a Blessing.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Thankful for the prompt

August 17, 2025Leave a Comment

A while back a young lady sat on the pew behind us in church. She had been the victim of a terrible act of violence that she survived. It is a miracle she is alive. I remember the video testiomony at church, I’m thinking it must have been in the Spring. This young lady almost died BUT GOD! As is my case in life, I don’t always get all the details because of the way I hear and see but when I saw her a few weeks ago sitting behind us, I texted my friend and ask what her name was. Ever since she told me, I’ve had this young lady’s name on the top of my prayer list and in my daily prayers.

Today she was sitting on the pew behind us again. With my low vision I wanted to make sure it was her because I felt prompted to talk to her after our service. She wears a mask I’m guessing due to the violence she endured. After church I told her I was praying for her and she was at the top of my prayer list. She began typing on her phone and as it turns out was communicating that way. At this point she is unable to speak so she typed on her cell phone. I told her I can’t see or hear well but my husband Ron read it and my friend Lauren interpreted for me. This young lady is going to NY tomorrow and mentioned a possibility of some kind of transplant. She didn’t give details but I was able to share about my brother’s transplant miracle. Next week my brother will be five years post bone marrow transplant. I told this young lady it was no accident that we were talking this morning. God prompted me to encourage her. God did an amazing miracle for my brother and I’m praying this young lady’s miraculous journey continues. Please pray for her. I will just call her ”S”. May God open doors of opprtunity for her and her family as they seek Him and healing.

Our walk of faith is an active walk. God wants us to come along side others to encourage, speak life, pray and lift them up. We are to be the “hands and feet” of Jesus. I am so glad I wasn’t timid this morning because of my own issues. I am learning to step out boldly in faith and do what God calls me to do. So many people need others to encourage them and let them know they are not alone. Let’s not forget those around us struggling. We can just sit back and let someone else do it but don’t you do that! You be a part of encouraging and blessing because it will make your heart swell with amazement at how awesome our God is. I texted my friend after church and said “ I love how God works. Talking to “S” after church, that was such a “God thing”. Such a sweet girl”.

Don’t miss opportunities to be a blessing to others. It’s just the little things that let people know they are not forgotten. Look for someone every day to uplift and pray for. We may never know the impact we have on them with words of life, encouragement and acts of kindness. I can tell you it will bring such joy to your heart. Have an amazing week.

http://www.shannonkhinson.com