#humannature – rootedbythewater.blog

What do you SEE?

September 3, 2026Leave a Comment

Recently on social medial I asked the following question: What do you see? I was born with my visual problem but it has worsened over time. Imagine spending most of your life thinking you were born with a birth defect to both your optic nerves, and according to doctors, I was. However, the doctor said it would not get worse. He said as I naturally aged they would be able to get it back to my “normal”. (I guess with glasses. ) His theory was wrong. The struggle is real. I haven’t been to the eye doctor in years because it’s a waste of my time. Other than five eyelid surgeries, they have never been able to help at all. (I discovered later that one procedure was not even appropriate.) I am a slow reader and the font has to be zoomed in large. I see some of the letters in a word but not all of them. I recognize people by shape, size and hair color. Lighting is important because it helps me to see whats there. It is a very odd thing and no doctor has ever tried to figure it out.

Last Sunday I went to Central Church with a good friend. Central is “home”. It’s where I can actively participate in worship and understand the message through a sign language interpreter. (Why other churches don’t offer this, I’ll never understand.). Yes, for those who might be reading my blog for the first time, I’m also hearing impaired. Back to my question…. I mentioned possibly blogging on the topic but also shared pieces of this to gleam some feedback. My friend was telling me the expressions on faces on the stage. We were sitting in the first pew. I can see Pastor but not his face details. She could “see” he is burdened for the church. Wow! I mean I’m sure he is but to be able to “see” it on his face. Wow! She could “see” that one of the guys playing an instrument was truly moved by the worship and was “holding back” tears. Oh to be able to “see” those precious things. I am thankful for the descriptions. I know hearing impaired people put more into reading facial expressions because it conveys true meaning. So if you can hear maybe you look for or “see” different things.

The feedback was interesting. Unless you see me read, you might never realize that I’m not seeing like you. It’s not obvious. Even people who know me well have a tendency to forget. I think the post made a few people appreciate things they take for granted. My cousin who suffered ocular seizures a while back shared one eye is fuzzy, but the other he can see expressions. Another friend said she can see the expressions and hear the emotion in voices. Another friend suggested I use live-streaming on my iPad while at church so I could take a quick look, zoomed in to see. (I’d never do that. Never want to be a distraction to others.) People were encouraging. One mentioned the spiritual “sight” of discernment. I praise God that He has given me that. I guess that brings us to another form of “seeing”.

Spiritual insight and discernment are also ways the Holy Spirit enables us to “see” and test what’s going on around us. I love to tune in to the Holy Spirit and seek His direction on whatever is at hand. I guess because I don’t hear it all and definitely don’t see it all, what I do “get”, I ponder. I’m a deep soul. I think deeply on things and often pray over them. I see people and their personalities at play. I see how we can “walk in the flesh” sometimes unintentionally. We have to ask the Lord to examine our hearts and our lives. We need to ask for forgiveness and make changes to walk surrendered to the Lord. When I notice conflicts, I see personalities and attitudes at play. I see how people approach and deal with issues. I sense spiritual elements at work behind situations. There is so much to see/discern and so much to cover in prayer.

I’ve come to notice that people have no clue what you’re going through. (And that is okay) I personally “stumbled” upon deep empathy years ago. As I was dealing with hearing and vision issues, I became way more sensitive to any need around me I also became sensitive to how people respond to those needs. People are so unique, each with their own story that has molded them into who they are. When you see conflicts, someone withdrawn, etc. think of the underlying issues that might be at work. This type of perspective can bring a healthy peaceful shift in situations. Just something to think about.

Well, that was a “deep dive” and it’s time to come back to the “surface”. I hope you all have a wonderful Labor Day weekend. Be mindful of differences and little things you can do for those around you. Be blessed and better yet, be a blessing!

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Breaking forth new ROOTS

August 17, 2026Leave a Comment

For some reason I feel a need to share this. A few weeks ago I snipped off some long overgrowth on a plant on our porch. I typically just throw the clippings away but figured by “rooting” them in water, I could add to an existing small plant in our dining room. As you know, any clippings not placed in water, will eventually wither and die. This is so true regarding our spiritual lives as well.

Let’s think about this. How many of you have gone through very dry seasons in life? You get distracted with raising a family, the pleasures of enjoying life, or perhaps your career…. Slowly you begin to read your Bible less and less. Your church attendance can become sporadic. Before you know it temptations come in “undetected” because you have “stopped walking with the Lord”. You become a “dry shoot” in desperate need of “living water’. Jesus is referred to as ‘Living water” many times in the Bible. (See John 4:10, 13-14 ) John 7:37-38 says, “On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’”” (NLT‬‬) Jesus is our “living water”. He brings renewal, spiritual refreshing, salvation and eternal life when we surrender to Him. Jesus wants to refresh you! You might say, “I’ve made some bad choices, done the unforgivable, sinned one too many times” or whatever the excuse is you might have. Jesus is merciful and full of grace. Check out Romans 5:8, “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” (NLT‬‬) (emphasis mine) When we confess our sins, He is faithful to forgive us. Sometimes you have to “get over yourself”! You have to admit, “I was wrong Lord.” Jesus wants to restore YOU! The Bible says He leaves the 99, to run after the 1 sheep who wandered away! What an amazing loving Savior! (See the parable of the lost sheep Luke 15;3-7) There is also the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32.

Scripture after scripture we see a loving Savior with open arms saying “Come to me!” The Bible is full of these merciful invitations, with Jesus’ nailed scarred hands reaching out to you, He says “Come!” You don’t have to live feeling dried out and incapable of getting out of your “pit” He is the “Living water” that will bring such a refreshment to your soul.

Just like those clippings I placed in water in the picture above, when we feel “cut off” and we re-immerse ourself back into seeking the Lord whole-heartedly, you will find yourself once again breaking forth roots into all God has for you. Don’t delay another day. We must live with eternity in mind. Have a blessed week!

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Not just lip service

August 9, 2026Leave a Comment

It’s been 11 days since I last posted a blog. In five years of blogging, I’m not sure if I’ve ever gone that long without sharing something. It wasn’t because I didn’t have anything to share. Last week I started some notes to use but just wan’t “feeling it”. There are times when silence is a good thing. That’s been me lately, just pondering, thinking and praying. As I’ve been studying the book of James in the New Testament of the Bible, the Lord has shown me a few things. I love the book of James. He doesn’t hold back but gets right to the point from the very second and third verses. “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.”James‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) (Emphasis mine)

Jame’s starts heavy, doesn’t he? I’ll confess to struggling with struggles. So last week as I continued studying James I took a look inside. Self inventory or assessment. I asked myself, “Is my faith visible?” Do my words (spoken or typed), actions, thoughts, motives…etc are they done in love and obedience to God? Why did I ask myself these things? Because faith is active. It’s done in love and obedience to the Lord. James 2;26 comes to mind: “Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.” (NLT‬‬).

I’m in a new season right now that I haven’t been in before. There was a time when I was doing too much: intense Bible study on my own, leading a Bible study (I had to memorize large portions because of my low vision), volunteering, not to mention dealing with vision and hearing limitations and mana going our household. The thing is, when I’m busy I don’t have as much time to “think”. The mind is a battlefield and managing thoughts no small task. Ron said last week, “You look depressed”. I responded, “How can I not be? There are struggles everywhere I turn.” Being in the house so much can be depressing. I felt the Lord gently correct me. You can bloom where you are, be fruitful in the little things. Get out of that pit of despair and do those chores you don’t feel like doing. Be joyful in this time. My timing is perfect. Okay Lord! I hear you!

There was another thing God spoke to my heart about last week. Not taking offense. Surely I’m not the only one. It dawned on me that taking offense can be a form of pride. Hear me out. When we take offense, we think our stance is right. I don’t do that a lot but I do occasionally do that with my husband. For the most part it is due to miscommunication, which by the way is no joke. (If you can hear and communicate well with your spouse, count yourself fortunate.) Sometimes I respond to what I “think” he said. We’ve been doing this thing called married life for 32+ years. In the beginning I looked at it like a game of “Wheel of Fortune”. You know, you get a few letters and you fill in the blanks. Well…. A fun positive spin on life sure does help. So you see, It’s quite human to take offense when you’re constantly misunderstanding something. The Lord had me to apologize and hubby appreciated that.

This morning I went to church with my friend Amy. The worship and the message were so good for my “dry bones”. The worship was soothing and tears began to fall. A good refreshing cleanse. Don’t get me started on the person playing the piano. Oh my goodness. I’ve known him for years and he can bring the most beautiful music out of a piano. The message encouraged me to fight til the finish. 2 Timothy 4:7 says, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.”‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) We must be faithful to keep our eyes on Jesus and not the struggles. Just like James said in the verse towards the beginning of this blog, consider those troubles an opportunity for great joy. Joy? Yes Joy! How? Truly, only by the grace of God. He can help us see struggles from a Heavenly perspective where we are being refined to reflect the image of Jesus. So stay the course. Keep up the good fight. Sometimes I will joke around with my husband when there are struggles. I’m like, “Here we go! Round 5…. Ding ding!“ He just laughs.

I never want my life to be just lip service (or empty words). I want people to see Jesus when they see me in public or in the car or ever at home. While people don’t see those “at home” scenes, God surely does. There is an old worship chorus I remember from years ago. It went like this: Praise you…Praise you… let my life O Lord, Praise you. That’s my hearts desire. As we start a new week tomorrow, let’s remember God is with us. He goes before us, He follows us. He lays His hand of blessing on our heads. (See Psalms 139:5) Stand tall and bloom in those struggles. God gets the glory and that’s where our purpose in life comes in….living for the Glory of God.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Daily “Manna”

July 22, 2026Leave a Comment

Back in the Old Testament in the book of Exodus, God sent the hungry Israelites manna from Heaven, every morning as they traveled through the wilderness for 40 years. They were only to gather enough for one day. If they hoarded it, it would rot. In this way God tested their obedience to trust Him to fortify them for each day.

I see some connections with modern day life. While we don’t have physical manna falling from Heaven each morning, we do have God’s Word that we can partake of each and every day to fortify and strengthen us for whatever we face. When I have my quiet times with the Lord in the morning: time in prayer and in scripture, God truly does refresh me This is a discipline I’ve learned that really helps me each day. I often think what an incredible difference it would make in peoples lives if they learned the habit of going to God each morning to be fully equipped for the day. We don’t know what’s coming at us but He sees the full picture.

The last two weeks I’ve been very stressed and drained by life situations. I’ve been struggling with my comprehension again for some reason. I guess I’ll need to go back and start doing auditory exercises again. My low vision has also given me issues lately, thats not to mention people. The thing about people, we are all flawed in some way. No one is perfect, but with my hearing and visual limits it takes a special kind of patience to deal with it. Last Saturday night I broke down and just cried. I explained to my husband, “I am always thinking about everyone else. Making sure everyone else is happy and taken care of, but what about me?” I struggled Saturday trying to understand what everyone was saying around me. There was that, and no notes for several weeks from the church we’ve been visiting, dealing with emails coming through regarding marketing my memoir….. combine it all and it’s just stressful. I finally did talk to my Mom about it. She told me it’s not God’s will for me to be stressed. She’s praying along with me and this week has been much better.

I can relate to the Israelites wandering in the wilderness for 40 years. My life with my visual and hearing limitations poses some obstacles that can seem impossible at times. I must remember that God IS in control. I came across a verse in Joshua 1 this morning: “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 was also reminded of another scripture found in Exodus 14: “The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”” Exodus‬ ‭14‬:‭14‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

Do you need these reminders as well? We can trust God. He is faithful. He answers prayers. I’ll be the first to tell you, His timing is not like ours, however it is perfect. He sees the BIG picture and has our best in mind, as a Father watches over his children, so God watches over us.

Learning to trust God’s perfect Will is sometimes hard. About a month ago a scout came across my memoir Rooted by the Water and it was entered into some sort of selection process for “page to screen” with a production company for the inspirational true story category. I had to sign a non-disclosure so I couldn’t say anything. (I was released from that on Monday.) Out of many books I made the top 20, then I made the top 5. Two days ago I heard they have selected another story and I’ve been released from the non-disclosure. I was like, “Okay Lord, this wasn’t Your Will. What’s next?” So I wait for direction on that end. The following verses come to mind: ““My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

Where ever you are in life, whatever you are facing, God IS trustworthy and loves us so much. We can rest in Him. When you are beyond stressed and drained by life, step back and just breathe. I do this and it really helps. Breathe, pray, worship the Lord, read the Bible and watch Him work things out in His way. Older worship songs always come to me at these moments. One is with me right now: Breathe by Marie Barnet (1995 Mercy / Vineyard Publishing) Once again the YouTube video isn’t loading. Let me add the link so you can check it out if you’re unfamiliar with it. He will refresh you are you worship along. https://youtu.be/oZhUesUaM98?si=HXoW5SAKBQ9lu3pO

Have a productive and peaceful rest of the week. Stay in prayer and God’s Word. He is faithful always. God bless you all.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

In the “trenches”

July 9, 2026Leave a Comment

This blog may take a bit of time to put together. A friend and his wife who are missionaries in Italy, actually sent me the above picture recently and it resonated with me deeply. I decided to follow “Salt & Light” because inspiring messages are always welcome.

I am not one to complain or showcase my struggles but there comes a time when sharing, although uncomfortable, most likely encourages others also in the “trenches” of life. In all honestly, in my 57 years of life, there has always been some struggle. God has always enabled me to bounce back. If you have ever read my memoir Rooted by the Water many of the chapters begin with the metaphor of water stirring, churning, waves forming then the BIG one. It seems God allows the build up of life issues, as not to totally overwhelm. I told my husband Ron recently, I feel like one of those punching toys, where you hit it, it rears back then bounces back up. I told him I feel like those punches come from all sides in life. So when my friend Jack sent me the above I totally got it. I’m often like Elijah saying “Lord, I’ve had enough! I’m done!” But it keeps coming.

Let’s see if I can briefly summarize the “trenches”: communication lapse with just about everyone…. I don’t hear it all and I dont’ see it all either. Whether I’m with hearing people or deaf people I miss something. Hearing people expect me to “get it”… well I don’t always and it’s not my fault. Deaf friends will repeat and help and I so appreciate that. Then there is the vision limitation…. Oh my goodness. “Lord why in the world do I have to deal with this?” I have not been to the eye doctor in years. At last check my vision was 20/400 (what I see at 20 feet, if you have good vision, you can see it from 400 feet. Let that sink in). There is the church issue. I miss my church. We stopped going so my husband could take our son to work. He has to be at work at the exact same time of the interpreted service. Other churches we visit don’t have sign language interpreters. Sometimes notes are sent and sometimes not. There are things with friends too: friends come and friends go, people go through different seasons in life and you feel left behind. It’s no ones fault, it’s just life.

This past Spring I began to try marketing my memoir again. A professor came across my book when looking for books on resilience. He really liked it and reached out, wondering why I have a good rating but not many reviews. I told the Lord, “You enabled me to write this story, the journey you have me on, but I have no clue on the visibility end or the marketing end. You created me to encourage and inspire for a reason. It’s not meant to sit buried online.” So, I hired a “Book Strategist”. I throughly checked the references she gave and everyone spoke highly of her. She seems very knowledgeable and kind, but we’ve hit a “hiccup”. I purchased Tier 3 which would greatly help with visibility. She is now insisting I need a professionally designed website (by her team) in order to fulfill what I pad for. This is not part of our agreement. My son Joshua created a wonderful website with all the features she said my first one lacked. We now need to add my social media links and it should be pretty much finished. She says it’s not enough for a long term career. This is not a career, but more a ministry. She and others think I will write more books. While I would love that and I’m full of ideas, alas… my vision is a real issue.

Now here comes the technology issue. Two days ago I was sent a some forms to fill out. I wanted to do it digitally because it looks more professional. I spent more than four hours trying to fill out these simple forms. More than FOUR HOURS to no avail! It would not work for some reason. The font went back and forth between small and large. The large font wouldn’t fit the line due to being cut off every single time. . It was the most absurd experience. Even Ron tried and it didn’t work for him either. He finally said, just give up. I said, “If I gave up in life I would not be standing here right now.” I finally caved, printed and filled the forms out by hand. My handwriting is not pretty. I have to use a video magnifier to be able to see what I’m writing. I carefully filled it out and Ron took it to get it uploaded for me to send off as an attachment. Guess what? The attachment wouldn’t come through! Seriously?!?! Ron caught me talking to myself and he asked, “What did youn say?” I replied, “I said I can’t do this.” And wow, I never say that! Ron went back to ask what the issue might be and he tried again. It still wouldn’t come through. They finally sent it to our son and he sent it off for me.

It seems like life is a joke at times. The struggle comes from every single side. I’m like “Hello God, I could really use some help down here”. Everyone wants something. Unsolicited advertisements come in all the time and I’m learning to trust no one. I’m the kind of person that aims to be kind and appreciative to all, but there is a fine line when it’s too much. I respond to many of the emails and many comment on how kind and pleasant I am. I try to reflect Jesus. “But Lord, I’m not meant for all these marketing pitches.”

Three days ago I was looking through Bible devotions on the Bible App. There are many plans to choose from on many topics. I found one of “EquipHer’ It talks about the “trenches” in life and how God does not waste these times. Yesterday’s lesson talked about when the trials are a long season. One of the quotes is : Faith is the glue that holds your journey together, even when everything feels fragmented. – Christa Crawford. Faith does not cancel difficulty or deny your exhaustion, it gives you strength and courage to walk through it. (Bible App reading plan. EquipHer Devotional series Volume 27, Day 3)

This devotion has been a breath of fresh air for a weary soul. Yes, I was already aware of these truths, but reminders are so helpful. Even the people closest to me don’t realize the struggles, I don’t complain. Ron is probably the only one that sees it. (Most of it) But God sees it all! He knows and he equips. This season is some sort of training for what lies ahead. All I can do is “be still and know He is God”, take some deep breaths, dig my heels in and steady myself with the deep roots of faith that have gone deep over many years of struggle. God’s got this!

Today I’m heading out for a refreshing time with good friends. Lunch, time by the pool and laughter is just what I need. Thankful for this “break” in life. If you too are struggling and can’t seem to catch a break, know that God doesn’t waste these “life trenches” He is training you because He knows you will rise up to declare His glory. Hang in there. I’m hanging with you!!🙏🤟🏼

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

The Love of a Father

June 21, 2026Leave a Comment

I want to wish all the Father’s out there a very Happy Father’s Day. My brother and I were blessed to have an amazing Dad. He made it easy for me to have a trusting relationship with my Heavenly Father because he was an amazing, compassionate support to us here on earth.

This morning I came across this scripture. “As a father pities his children, So the Lord pities those who fear Him.” Psalms‬ ‭103‬:‭13‬ ‭(NKJV‬) This reads so clearly to me that just like my amazing earthly Dad was compassionate and loved us deeply, God our Heavenly Father does so too and on such a higher level than we could ever imagine.

We lost our Dad in March 2021 and I sure do miss him. He was the best listener ever and always offered sound advice when I sought it. While I can’t talk to him now, I do talk to my Heavenly Father daily. He is the source of my strength. My Dad lived his life for the Lord, setting an example we follow to this day.. I appreciate he allowed me to learn from experience. I’m sure watching me struggle in juggling hearing and visual limitations, stretched him. He and Mom never limited me by saying “You can’t do that”, rather they cheered on my attempts and success. As I thought on it this morning, God does the same and again, on such a higher level.

This morning as I got ready for church my mind went ‘running” in various directions and I began to be anxious. Immediately I was reminded of Philippians 4:6-7. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭(NKJV‬‬ emphasis mine) It became clear to me I needed to release these thoughts to God, my Heavenly Father. I began to thank Him that He is sovereign and in complete control. I began to pray for His perfect Will to be done in all areas. He is faithful always. As I reflected on the first verse I shared (Psalm 103) it reminded me of how deeply God cares and understands. He sees the BIG pictures and we have to trust Him with the future.

I’m beyond thankful God gave me God fearing parents. They have instilled in me a legacy of faith that is so deep and rich. When I’m struggling or having anxious thoughts I can dig deep into my faith in God and relationship I have with Him, knowing His promises stand. He is faithful , holy, compassionate and true. My strong tower and refuge. What an incredible Heavenly Father we have.

I plan to write on our “prayer life” in a dew days. Stay tuned~

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Seeking more than a Miracle~

June 16, 2026June 16, 2026Leave a Comment

I have been doing a little devotion on this topic. I enjoy reading different devotionals along with my online Bible. (I have many physical Bibles in different translations but can no longer see well enough to read them.) It’s interesting to see peoples views on the Bible, but of course the only one that matters is how the Holy Spirit guides me in scriptures and helps me apply it to my life.

As a person living with vision and hearing disabilities, I’ve always been drawn to the miracles Jesus performed in the Bible. (He still performs them today as well.). While I have experienced healing within my heart in dealing with my limitations, I have not “yet” experienced physical healing, although I have been prayed over for years. I can just assume it’s not God’s perfect time just yet. I have learned to surrender my desires and pray like Jesus, “not my will but yours be done.” I like how the Gospel of Mark shares this verse, although it is in orther Gospels in the Bible as well. Mark‬ ‭14‬:‭36‬ says, “And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.”” (NKJV‬‬) I know this to be true and so I cling to it. I don’t understand the suffering in this world, but I know God is completely sovereign and is able to do anything He wishes. I trust He sees the big picture and is taking care of me, placing me where He desires for His kingdom work.

I came across the following verse this morning. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.”Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬ ‭(NKJV‬‬) Every day, I must submit to God. I must seek Jesus in everything I do. It must be way way more than seeking a miracle. It must always be about seeking His presence and guidance.

Can I be completely transparent here? A few weeks ago a street evangelist I met years ago sent me his YouTube channel. Joel is a humble amazing Bible teacher. He was healed from stage 4 cancer and sees many many miracles. I messaged him and asked him if he would minister to a friend who has cancer. He said he would but asked me to share a video of him teaching on the topic. (Preparation for the conversation) I watched the video myself, reading the transcript (zoomed large so I could see it) since I can’t hear well. It is am amazing insightful Bible teaching. I will ask if I can share it. There were three things we need to examine our hearts for. Do we have any un-forgiveness? Do we have any bitterness? Do we have any envy? These are things that can hinder receiving healing and we must confess them to the Lord. I thought to myself, I do not harbor any un-forgiveness as I am a very merciful person. I also don’t have any bitterness that I am aware of. But envy….Lord I have envy and it troubles me. Before you judge, let me explain. I have a servants heart and I’d love to be able to just get in the car and bless someone, but I can’t see well enough to drive. Every place I go in life must be first filtered through someone else’s willingness to take me. That is something I “had” to come to terms with a long long time ago. Just because I want to do something does not mean someone else will be willing to take me and pick me up and even help me understand while I’m serving It’s a real struggle and I realize as I think of this that perhaps I envy those who can just make decisions and do them without someone having to help. I’d love to be able to work. Yes you read that right. The vast majority of jobs require ability to hear and see. The combination of my disabilities is very hindering. (Not to mention it requires getting there and home.) As I reflected on this video, ever since watching, it honestly sadden me. I have prayed, “Lord I am human. Yes I envy others ability to have independence, be able to comprehend speech well and be able to see. 20/400 vision with hearing difficulties is no joke. It’s tough. And of course there are those who notice, “You’re not hearing well today”. Yes, unfortunately but what can I do about it? My mantle in this life is to lean on Jesus and seek His presence to enable me to function for His glory. You might wonder the definition of mantle. Mantle means, accepting a significant calling, profound responsibility, or specific life mission. (Google definition) This mantle truly requires me to lean heavily on the Holy Spirit, otherwise I’d be long gone by now. So you see, for me it goes way beyond seeking a miracle, but actually living in the miracle worker’s (Jesus) presence.

Do I still desire healing? Oh yes! (And I pray for many people who also need healing.) I’m trusting God with His best. He has us where we are for a reason. He doesn’t waste any opportunities to be glorified. “Here I am Lord” use me, my story, my limitations, the fact that You work so powerfully in our weaknesses. Be glorified today Lord”

P.S. I reached out to Joel for permission to share his video. I will add the link below. It is very good. I recommend subscribing to his YouTube channel. It will bless you.

https://youtu.be/h6tFHXHP16Y?si=wAtLDK30_Df_0Hq8
http://www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Peace rising

June 2, 20262 Comments

I’m not sure where this bog is going. Just being honest. However as I was praying yesterday morning on my back porch, I noticed the early morning sun shining on this solitary peace lily bloom standing tall in the sun. This thought resonated with me that we too can rise up in peace in the SON (Jesus). You see, last winter this beautiful peace lily almost died. I had forgotten to water it for an extended period of time. When I shared with my Mom about how it looked like it was dying, she recommended pruning it way back so it could possibly regrow. That’s what I did. It’s a marvel how nature bounces back, with pruning, water and sunlight.

We are just like that in life. We can pour into others so much, we neglect to take care of self. As I was reading the Bible this morning, I read the first two verses of Psalms 139. That’s one of my favorite chapters in the Bible. David is just so real and honest about life and bringing it to God. The first two verses say: “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.” Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) I find it comforting to know that God sees me completely. There is absolutely nothing hidden from Him. He sees my weariness underneath the “I’m okay”. He knows the deep longing, to hear and see well. He knows the deep longing in my heart for my son and husband. We have a unique family. We all have broken pieces whether it’s legal blindness , hearing loss and issues from a closed head injury. We deal with a lot and we do it together. He knows how we pour into others anyway. People don’t understand the cost to me, but God does: the striving to understand, the striving to see, read, study, prepare. It can be tiring. Life is stressful enough with just me, myself and I. I don’t need added un-necessary stress. So I’m praying for direction. Should I cut something free that is weighing me down? We can all ask these questions. God sees us completely already and knows the plans He has for us. Sometimes in life to get from Point A to Point B, it’s a “straight shot”, other times it’s a “winding road” going up and down hills. Regardless, God knows the best way to proceed and I’m willing to be obedient to what He shows me. Whether it is to write more books (three ideas came to mind recently) to continue or stop blogging, or continue or stop volunteering. Perhaps it’s to help a neighbor with dementia. She came by early last night with a bag full of her things, carrying her toothbrush. It’s hurts my heart to see the struggles but we listened and prayed with her as a family. She prayed for my son three times in a row, not remembering she had just prayed. I’m thankful she has retained the gift of prayer. Her husband tracked her and she got home safely and was smiling as she left. You never know what life will throw. God has the answers and I’m waiting on His direction.

This morning I also came across scripture in Matthew 11. Verse 28 spoke to my heart. It says: “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) Perhaps you too are weary and are seeking rest for your heart. I will never understand God’s ways for they are so much higher than our own ways. You can find this in Isaiah 55:8-9, ‘My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.”
‭‭Isaiah 55; 8-9 (NLT) So let’s just lay it down right there and trust our Heavenly Father who sees us so completely, who is familiar with all our ways, let’s lay it down for Him and trust Him for direction. In true Shannon fashion, a worship song just popped in my mind. “ I lay me down Lord, here at Your feet, all I have Lord is Yours. I lay me down Lord, my heart is Yours to keep. All of You is all I need.” I believe this is a Central Collective song but I don’t know the name and might possibly have the words wrong, but that’s how it’s playing in my heart right now.

Let’s cease the striving and just be Still and Know that He is God. (Psalms 46:10)
http://www.shannonkhinson.com

Deeply touched💙

May 25, 2026Leave a Comment

First let me say, Happy Memorial Day. I’m beyond thankful for the service men and women who have given it all for our freedom here in America. Take time to reflect on the “cost” of the freedoms we enjoy. 🇺🇸

I was not planning to write today but my heart was deeply touched this morning. Since working with the “Book Strategist”, reviews and ratings are beginning to trickle in on Goodreads. When my book first came out five years ago a few friends wrote reviews on Amazon. I greatly appreciate them taking the time. It’s a completely different thing when perfect strangers read and put into writing how the book moved them. I was in tears as I read the review this morning on Goodreads. Below is a screenshot of the review. This is why I wrote the book. Marion “nailed it” in the review. Just wanted to share. During my quiet time this morning I prayed, “Lord this is your story. Take it where you want it to go and reach those whom you desire to encourage.”

Another quick note….shout out to my son Joshua. I mentioned some things that I’d like to add to the basic website.It’s now a work in progress as he has taken over the website for me. He too faces visual and hearing limitation challenges, but it’s not as severe as mine. (Thank you Got and God willing his won’t worsen) He is a smart guy and wanted to see if he could figure out the website management. He was able to add my new book video trailer. He was so excited. You don’t realize how we use the computer….. we have to zoom in so we can see. I had not seen him on a computer in a while and it made me pause to watch him and his determination to figure it out. The “apple surely doesn’t fall far from the tree” He face timed a friend who is very talented with these things and his friend was laughing, telling him what he had accomplished wasn’t easy. Joshua wants to try to figure it all out for me. I’ll tell you, he can be a prankster though. He told me he thought about changing the name to “Rooted by the Booger”. I said, “You better not!!!” We have that playful kind of relationship. Anyway, check out the website link below if you’d like to see the book video trailer. We will see where God takes this. I am humbled and beyond grateful for this experience.

Blessings to you all!

Www.shannonkhinson.com.

Don’t despise “small things”

May 20, 2026Leave a Comment

I’m sitting here on the porch this morning working on the devotion to share with the homeless ministry later on today. I find it so amazing how God brings these topics and scripture to me that are just as much for me as they are for the precious people who will hear it later. Today I’m going to teach on not despising the small things or small beginnings in our lives. That can surely apply to anyone.

We all have those day, weeks and even seasons when thins seems so small and progress seems so slow. You know, “two steps forwards, three steps back”. These times can feel very frustrating and we can often wonder, “Lord, how is this going to play out?” The Old Testament prophet Zechariah could probably relate. He was a post – exile prophet.

Here’s a bit of history in a “nutshell”. King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon conquered Israel and sent the people into exile for approximately 70 years. During that time King Solomon’s magnificent Temple of the Lord was plundered and burned to the ground. Later the King of Persia defeated Babylon and he allowed the people of Israel to return to Jerusalem to rebuild. So the people of Israel returned to Jerusalem and began the process of rebuilding the temple. However what was coming up was nothing compared to the former glory of King Solomons temple. The progress was slow with limited resources and incomplete walls. It was unimpressive and likely discouraging. However God sent a strong message to Zechariah through a vision. Zechariah 4:10 says,“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand.” (The seven lamps represent the eyes of the Lord that search all around the world.)”‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) So you see, God rejoices in small beginnings, in the work in progress. We need to do the same.

We can often feel frustrated with small beginnings and small things in our lives because it exposed our impatience. People are driven to see results. We want to see impact and often times get discouraged with slow progress. However God rejoices in our faithfulness and the work in progress. We must stay the course and keep looking to God for guidance.

One thing about people, we must look up to God for direction and validation. When we look around, we become distracted and discouraged by comparing ourselves to others. The world and culture are always telling us what our lives “should look like” or how we “should look”, what we “should be wearing, driving and doing”. It’s all distraction that deflated your peace and joy. Keep looking to God for direction. Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. (NKJV)

Many people try to do things in their own strength, possibly out of a sense of pride. I’ve done this before by saying “I can do it myself, thank you.” Can you hear the sassy? Been there, done that. Just being honest. There are many things I can’t do because of my hearing and visual imitations. The things I can do, I like to do myself. God has worked with me on this and I am much better. God wants us to rely on His strength not our own. Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (That is from memory. Not sure which translation). I also came across a verse in Zechariah that I love. “Then he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.”
‭‭Zechariah‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬ ‭(ESV). I really have to take these scriptures to heart and let them sink deep within. Here’s a little testimony for you. When I signed up to help with the homeless ministry, I signed up with a friend who could help me understand through sign language. Yes, I can understand some with my cochlear implant but it depends on the situation and when you add my low vision to the mix, it is challenging. Well, right now my friend is out of town so I’ve been cooking the rice and beans and also teaching the devotion. Last week two ladies at the shelter approached me with health issues. One I could partially understand. The second lady I had great difficulty understanding. I asked her name and she pointed to her name tag, but with my low vision, I couldn’t see it. I explained that I couldn’t see her name tag, and I equally couldn’t understand her prayer request. However, I told her, “God knows your name and He knows exactly what you need, so let’s pray together and ask Him to meet your need”. I prayed with her and have to release it into the Lord’s care. I often wonder, “Lord, you know I can’t see that well and you know I have great difficulty understanding, why am I here doing this?” His answer seems pretty apparent, “It’s Him, not me” Not by my might, or my power, or special talent etc, but “By my Spirit says the Lord of Hosts”. From a human perspective it’s an uncomfortable place to be, but from a spiritual perspective it’s the best place to be…. Fully relying on God not on myself.

I will wrap this blog up with one last scripture: Philippians 1:6 says, “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (ESV) Did you see that? It’s a “good” work and He will bring it to completion. God finishes what He starts. Let me encourage you to “stay the course”. Keep looking to Jesus in all things. He’s for you!!

Be blessed!