#humannature – rootedbythewater.blog

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!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

It’s a ruff life

May 7, 2026Leave a Comment

My son Joshua and his dog Moose at Folly Beach, S.C.

Sometimes it’s good to take a break and go away for a reset. A change of scenery with sunshine and the ocean breeze does the soul good. We did this recently. We sort of made a spur of the moment decision to go somewhere different for some rest and relaxation. For some reason we picked Folly Beach just south of Charleston, S.C. This is a quaint little beach town. We made sure to find a dog friendly place so Joshua could bring his dog Moose, Tides at Folly Beach was a perfect spot and everything was within walking distance. Once my husband Ron parked the car, we didn’t get back in it until it was time to go home. It was refreshing to not be in traffic. Even the local restaurants were dog friendly. Rita’s was across the streeet from the hotel. They even had a dog menu and the items were served on frisbees. Joshua ordered Moose scrambled eggs one morning and he loved it. The restaurant was even playing the song Who let the dogs out.

We thought we were going to be there before “peak season” but we just missed it. Peak season started on May 1 so Moose was only able to go on the beach before 10 am and after 6 pm. He really loved it though and enjoyed meeting the other dogs. I’m glad we brought him along. He did really well.

Our old 15 year old rescue Joy had a “staycation” A friend came to stay with her while we were away. She too got some rest and relaxation without Moose always trying to play with “Granny Joy”. My friend sent a picture and video of Joy enjoying her rest while she played “dog music” off YouTube. I’ve never heard of “dog music” but it apparently made Joy relax and fall asleep. (I played it on my iPad this afternoon and both Moose and Joy looked at me like, “what are you playing?”)

I’m truly thankful for the time away with my little family. Sometimes life become kind of chaotic with the constant same routine. It’s good to take time to get away to rest and refresh, then you return ready to “go at it again”. The weather was perfect and the sounds of the ocean, so refreshing. We need to do this more often and we will definitely return to Folly Beach. If you have never been and would like a family friendly low key place to enjoy, this is it. (Especially if you want to bring your fur babies too)

It’s important to take a break and take care of yourself so you can continue pouring into others. Be blessed!!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Tarry in the stillness

April 29, 2026Leave a Comment

Yesterday I thought about writing on the much needed peaceful rain we were getting. We’ve been in a drought here in the Carolinas and needed rain so much. It was peaceful to sit on the porch and listen to it fall (I’m thankful my cochlear implant allows me to hear such beauty. ) However, I decided not to write and just be still and enjoy it.

This morning, I’m sitting on the porch again for my quiet time with the Lord and once again it is lightly raining. As I was reading scripture I came across Luke‬ ‭24‬:‭49 that says, ”Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”” (NKJV‬‬) Tarry means to linger or stay longer than expected. I needed to look up the meaning of endued. That word means to provide, invest or clothe someone with a particular quality, power or talent. So, we are to
“stay put” until the Holy Spirit “clothe” us” with power for what lies ahead.

I think we need to take this to heart and do it more often. Honestly, I’ve been burned out with life recently: just trying to do too much with my limitations. I’ve always pushed myself but there is a “fine line” when you push too hard. I (we) must realize, we can’t “save” the world, only God can do that. I (we) must realize that being still in God’s presence is refreshing. I (we) must realize it’s okay to say no. I (we) must realize that breaks are good and fortifying. I (we) must realize we have to take care of ourself before we can take care of another. We can’t pour into others when we have exhausted ourself. We chat learn balance. These are things I’ve learned lately.

When I started out the year God impressed on me to “be still and know that He is God”. I can’t make things happen. I can pray and try my best but only He can move mountains. My job is to pray, trust and evidently tarry.

I find it quite amazing how God aligns things in our lives to gently teach us and reinforce those teaching points again and again. He’s done that with me lately. I’m so thankful for a sensitive and teachable heart, where I see my faults, confess, repent and show grace to others.

I’ve been reading a fiction book recently and the characters try to manipulate situations and make the biggest “mess” in their lives. Then they realize the need to surrender to God their own “wills or desires” and trust God has a perfect plan. Then this morning in a group text, one friend shared words of encouragement and wisdom that our prayers are never wasted. God hears and remembers our prayers. We are to work on relationships and trust God. Then again coming across this scripture on “tarrying”. Just one gentle reminder after another to wait on God and be clothed with His power not our own.

So many try to do things on their own. We live in a success driven world of “get it done” and “moving on up” and “look at me”. A world of “impress everyone with all you’ve done and all you have”. In the grand scheme of life, those things don’t have eternal value. We need to build up our riches in Heaven. Check out Matthew 6:20-21, “but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”‬ ‭(NKJV‬‬)

Humility is so so very important. So many people are all about “ME”. Jesus was about “others”. We need to be the same.

Another thing I’ve noticed recently and this too was “reinforcerd” through a character in the book: we all make mistakes. I see and hear people talk about each other and I am reminded that NO ONE is perfect. We MUST pray for one another. It is vital! When you pray for people it’s hard to be critical of them. We aren’t made “judges”, only God does that. Love one another and pray. God is working among us, making a way in the dry places in life. Trust Him! Lay your “load” down and be still in His presence. Tarry in the stillness, it’s there we will find refreshing for our souls. Be blessed.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Bloom in hard places

April 23, 20262 Comments

My two Bible promise books under my Optelec video magnfier

Have you ever been in a “hard place” and had to find a way to thrive in the midst of it all? I realize this blog is read in countries around the world: mostly the USA but quite a few in Europe and Asia as well. A “hard place” to me might look very different from your “hard place”. What are we to do in these difficult situations when we must keep putting “one foot in front of the other”? Hope has kind of been the topic of the devotion at the homeless ministry recently. As I have continued to share on having a “hope that thrives” I can only pray the precious people apply the truths to their lives.

Last night I shared on God’s promises and how we can cling to those promises. The Bible is FULL of God’s promises. When I graduated from high school back in 1987 someone gave me a book of God’s promises. I found it the other night and put it under my video magnifier so I could see it. Back when it was given as a gift I could actually see it without assistance but now in order to see such luxuries, I say that because you have no idea what a luxury you have when you can read without a machine to magnify it so you can see it. Low vision is a hard place. Anyway… back to the point…. I put that little book of God’s promises under my machine and started to read. It’s organized by topic and gives many many verses per topic to share the promises of God in the bible.

Last night as I taught, I started by sharing 2 Corinthians 1:20; ”For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.” (NLT). I started with that to establish the fact that God’s Word is a firm foundation that we can rely on. We can anchor our hope in God by hiding His Word and promises in our hearts. I have to do that daily. It is a struggle but I cling to God’s Word and it enables me to bloom despite the difficulties. Sometimes my “bloom is watered with a few tears” but those are cleansing. I just wipe them away and continue on.

So here we were last night at the homeless shelter to bring food for nourishment and a devotion to nourish the soul. It was not our typical night. We usually have five staff members there plus up to ten volunteers. Two of our staff are traveling at the moment and one had hand surgery the day before. With my hearing and vision issues it’s a real “stretch” for me in the kitchen with the volunteers: trying to understand what they were saying and dealing with the commercial size kitchen. It was a bit overwhelming for me. I always slip away to pray before the devotion and to review my notes, enlarged big on my iPad, for the lesson. As I took that private moment in the storage room to offer up a prayer for assistance from the Lord, I’ll be honest, I blinked back tears of frustration. But what a perfect place to be as I “totally” depended on God to fill me in that moment. I know the precious homeless people are dealing with their own frustrations and I am to be an example of someone facing difficulties with God’s help. Fortified by that prayer, I went out and shared what God had given me. I shared 10 promises from the Bible that they could anchor their hope in God. I told them that God is bigger than any problem we might be facing I also encouraged them to use their words to affirm God’s goodness and promises over their life, rather than using words to magnify their problems. God is BIGGER than any trial. We can bloom in hard places. We must be obedient to step forward in faith in how God wants to use us. These teaching moments on Wednesday night are way out of my comfort zone but God never ceases to show up and enable me to pour in to the people. Before we even left the house yesterday my husband Ron found me outside sitting on the deck stairs. He said, “Are you praying?” I replied, “I’m just soaking up a bit of sun and yes, I’m praying a little since I don’t know how today will play out.” I’ll say,God answered my prayer because it all worked out for His glory. Ron said the people really listen as I share and two ladies accepted a Bible last night. That always warms my heart when they accept a free Bible.

Where does God want to use you? You can bloom anywhere with God’s help. It doesn’t have to be something extra-ordinary. It could be a shift of attitude, taking focus off yourself and seeing where you can serve others. It could be pouring into your family, friends and even strangers. It could be as simple as offering words of encouragement to people around you or perhaps responding with grace instead of the pent up frustration. God sees it all. He is cheering us on. You can “bloom in the hard places”, it just takes dropping all pride and sense of “self” and fully relying on God. He’s waiting for you. Just BLOOM!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

It’s ok to “slip away”

April 21, 2026Leave a Comment

Sometimes in life we get pressed from every side and need some “down time’. Years ago there was a chewing gum commercial jingle that said “When you need a little lift but you just can’t take a break, chew Wringleys spearmint gum”. Oh…. the things I remember back when I could hear well. But seriously, sometime we do need a “little lift” in life.

For me, I feel the tension through my shoulders throughout the day as I deal with ‘life” with vision and hearing issues. The attempts to see what I can, to see where I’m going in unfamiliar places, not missing steps, crossing steers and so on, and the constant need to understand speech with my cochlear implant processor. It can be a lot. What can I do when I need that ‘little lift” but “can’t take a break from life”? Honestly, I will go to my bedroom and lay down with a good book to unwind. Speaking of which, I recently started a new book that I borrowed from the library app. The thing is, the largest font on the app was not quite large enough to comfortably read it. I checked Apple Books app and saw the book there with adjustable font so I could actually enjoy the book. Oh the things I have to do. Sometimes I sip out on the back porch to pray and mediate on God’s Word. I have to be conscious to relax my shoulders and breathe. I’ve told the Lord I’d like to go far away by myself and sit on a beach: just me, myself and I. To soak in the warmth of the sunshine and ocean breeze. But alas, I’m stuck. Just have to learn to “let it roll”. Let the tension go.

As I was praying this morning I just poured out “life struggles” to the Lord What amazed me is when I finished praying I opened my Bible app and a new seven day reading plan was on the screen. I thought, “Okay, let’s take a look at this.” It was about the widow and Elisha in 2 Kings 4:1-7. The widow had a lot of problems coming at her and she asked Elisha for his help. He asked her what she had inside. He gave her practical instructions to use the oil she had to pour into empty vessels. This made me think, what do I have? How can I use what God has already given me to pour into “vessels”. What about you? What do you have that could possibly be multiplied to pour into others? For me, it could possibly be my writing, encouraging others and serving my family. One thing about serving others, whether it’s through writing blogs, sending encouraging text or commenting on posts, it takes the focus off yourself and seeks to uplift another. In so doing, you end up uplifted yourself.

In seasons of trials, because sometimes it is a SEASON. We have to be mindful to “bloom” in that hard places. Smile anyway! Serve anyway! Write anyway! Use what you have to the best of your ability then release it to God and allow Him to use it for His glory. At the end of the day, that is a day well lived, even in the midst of struggles. God is with us. 2 Timothy 1;7 says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love and of a sound mind (NKJV) Let’s be mindful to grasp on to the power, love and sound mind that God gives us. We are equipped for every good work. Press forward! It’s a new day with new mercies. Be blessed.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

57 things I’ve learned in 57 years

April 13, 20262 Comments

Since this is my birthday week, here are 57 nuggets of truth I’ve learned in 57 years.

1 ~ Live in the present. It’s a gift.
2 ~ Laugh at your shortcomings.
3 ~ Never stop learning.
4 ~ God is good always, despite the hard things.
5 ~ Don’t go to bed angry. Work it out before you go to sleep.
6 ~ problem solving is an essential life skill. It might be tough but it’s worth the effort.
7 ~ Invest time in your family. They are a treasure.
8 ~ Bloom where you’re planted.
9~ Any beach is my favorite. Just give me sand, waves, and the ocean breeze and I’m a happy girl.
10~ Nothing compares to a Mother’s heart for her children.
11~ Don’t take things for granted. They won’t last forever.
12~ Girls, start a skin care routine early in life. It makes a huge difference (You’ll see.)
13 ~ Forgive freely because God forgives us when we ask.
14 ~ It never hurts to ask, as long as it’s done nicely.
15 ~ The Heavens declare the glory of the Lord!
16 ~ It’s ok to cry. Tears cleanse you of built up emotions.
17~ First impressions last. Make it count.
18~ Words build up or tear down. Choose them carefully.
19 ~ Don’t take life too seriously. It’s a vapor, here today and gone tomorrow.
20 ~ You’re never too old to swing.
21 ~ Smile! It brightens a room!
22 ~ Music is delightful!
23 ~ Kind people make the world more beautiful!
24 ~ Ladies, don’t be afraid of gray hair. Going natural is liberating.
25 ~ A relationship with Jesus is the most important thing.
26 ~ Helping others helps take the focus off yourself.
27 ~ Friends come and friends go. Be thankful for them.
28 ~ Learning to control your tongue is vital.
29 ~ Drop your pride and apologize.
30 ~ Don’t hold a grudge.
31 ~ The Bible is our roadmap for life. Read and mediate on it.
32 ~ Make time for fun, the chores will still be there tomorrow.
33~ Motion is lotion. (I read that line in an awesome book Theo of Golden) So true!
34 ~ It’s more blessed to give than to receive.
35 ~ Marriage is worth fighting for. Roll up your sleeves and work out the hard things. So worth it.
36 ~ Never be afraid to ask for help.
37 ~ Starting your day in prayer and reading the Bible sets the course for a better day.
38 ~ Money does not make people happy.
39 ~ There is much joy found in watching things grow.
40 ~ Your child is always your child no matter what age they are.
41 ~ self examination is important. What do I need to improve?
42 ~ The past is over. Leave it there. Learn from it and move forward.
43 ~ God is the BEST artist. Just look at all He created. It’s a Marvel!!!
44 ~ You are never too old to start a new hobby.
45 ~ Don’t worry about what people think. Trust me, it doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of life.
46 ~ You are one of a kind. Embrace your uniqueness.
47 ~ Common sense is wonderful! Use it!
48 ~ You have to take care of Yourself before you can take care of others.
49 ~ Humility is a beautiful thing.
50 ~ A listening ear is a rare find.
51 ~ “Labels” might be a diagnostic tool but don’t let them define you.
52 ~ You can do hard things.
53 ~ Something may be hard but TRY ANYWAY. You might just surprise yourself.
54 ~ Always be prepared. Backup plans are wise.
55 ~ Don’t sweat the small things.
56 ~ This too shall pass.
57 ~ Let it roll! Sometimes people are just having a bad day. Let it go. No reason to ruffle your feathers.

Here’s to the next “trip around the sun”

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Great need ~ Greater Grace

April 8, 2026Leave a Comment

Let’s face it, we’re all flesh and blood. We can and do fall short,simply because we have fleshly responses. We say one thing yet we do another. In this world so much is said yet never carried out. I suppose it’s a human flaw. As I’ve been thinking on this recently, the disciple Peter came to mind. Although many biblical people can fall into this category, I think Peter has been on my mind simply because we just celebrated Easter, the resurrection of our Lord Jesus.

Peter had much human weakness in need of divine grace. When Jesus told the disciples about His coming death Peter boldly protested. Let’s see the series of events. In Mark 14:29-31 we see, “Peter said to him, “Even if everyone else deserts you, I never will.” Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, Peter—this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny three times that you even know me.” “No!” Peter declared emphatically. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!” And all the others vowed the same.” (NLT‬‬) Whew! Such courage until things start happening. Following Jesus arrest, while warming himself in the courtyard of the High Priest, Peter does indeed deny Jesus three times in one night. So much for the bold words. Let’s see what Mark 14:72 says: “And immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Suddenly, Jesus’ words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny three times that you even know me.” And he broke down and wept.” (NLT‬‬) Can you imagine the anguish Peter must have felt? He did love Jesus very much but in those fleshly moments of fear, he caved in and denied His Lord.

Last Sunday we went to Life Pointe church for Easter. The Pastor there touched on the following scripture. Mark 16;6-7, “And he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.”” (ESV‬‬) Pastor underlined that and in his notes. (I’m thankful they shared the notes with me since I can’t hear him very well. ). I had never noticed the “And Peter” either. Why do you think the Angel singled Peter out? I mean, Peter was one of the disciples. Why not just say, “Go and tell Jesus disciples?” The more I think about it the more I realize that Peter may have been “beating himself up” over his fleshly denial of the Lord. Perhaps he thought, “Yes, Jesus is alive but would he want to have anything to do with me, especially after I deserted him?” It’s a valid assumption. However, Jesus is FULL of divine grace and John 21 tells us that Jesus restored Peter to ministry.

How many of us fall short? Come on, you know we all do. Romans 3;23 says, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (NLT) We mess up sometimes and need to humble ourselves, seek Jesus face and ask for forgiveness. Jesus will meet you where you are in your situations if you surrender to Him. He met Peter at the Sea of Galilee. Where do you need Him to meet you? Let Him restore you and get you back on track to living the life He created you to live for His glory. He often meets me on my back porch in the mornings when I pour out my heart to Him. You see, this hearing/visually impaired life is no joke. It takes tremendous patience with all I encounter. Sometimes I just don’t feel up to being merciful and respond to frustration in ways the Lord probably doesn’t approve of. Just being real. That’s one thing I’m real good at, being real. But quite often I pray, “Lord help me die to the flesh and live according to Your Spirit. Help me respond in ways that please You.” And you know what, He sure does! I’m so thankful His divine grace meets me in my human weakness.

May I challenge you to examine your heart before the Lord? Ask Him to take a look at your heart and clean up what He sees that needs to be cleansed for His glory. The song Worth com to mind (by Anthony Born 2015) It goes like this: You thought I was worth saving, so You came and changed my life, You thought I was worth keeping, So You cleaned me up inside. You thought I was to die for, so You sacrificed Your life. So I could be free, I could be whole, I could tell everyone I know. I’m going to find the lyrics video and add it below. It’s Wednesday. We’re right smack in the middle of this week. Get your praise on and let God meet you where you are with a heart surrendered for His glory. Be blessed

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Don’t despise small beginnings.

March 25, 2026Leave a Comment

Right now I’m sitting on our back porch for my quiet time with the Lord. I had thought about not blogging this week, taking a break but this dropped in my heart. I aim to be obedient when the Holy Spirit drops something in my heart. My thoughts are a swirl of Spring, regrowth, rising up “yet again” , resilience and persevering for the glory of God.

The worship song Goodness of God (I don’t see how to underline that) was just playing in my head. I decided to find it on my iPad. As I started to sign the song in ASL (American Sign Language) our silly gran-pup thought my hands were a moving target game for him and He was trying to nibble my fingers. Nothing like the joy of a dog. That was off topic but a fun little addition so you can envision me blogging.

Now back to the topic —— In every season of life, we have to start somewhere. It’s a very rare moment when it’s not a small beginning. Just like seeds that are planted, we go through those small insignificant moments of isolated darkness as we grow up for the glory of God. For me, I just try to be obedient in whatever situation I’m in. Quite often it feels insignificant and unseen, but God sees me. That’s all that’s important.

So many things can seem like a “planting”. Sort of like a new start, a replant or even transplant. Last week I had to have a new “mapping” for my cochlear implant processor. That is sort of like reprogramming the processor that attaches magnetically to my head to the internal implanted device. For some reason that we don’t understand.some of the electrodes (there are 15) that are implanted in my brain were giving me some issues. Sounds were more “sharp” and bothered me like “fingernails going down a chalk board” kind of effect. My audiologist is amazing. She made adjustments so once again I’m having to transition and it makes me very tired. My husband Ron is really the only one that sees how this affects me. It can take a couple of months for my brain to adjust but I’m working on it and trying to balance out social life so I don’t get too drained. It’s a “replant” of sorts. My audiologist makes the changes (kind of like a replant) and I try in vain to bloom with it. 😂 (an emoji is suitable here)

Last night I was drained again. As I studied my notes for tonight’s devotion, I prayed, “Lord will I always be invisible?” My problems are unseen. My low vision can be somewhat hidden, mostly because of stubbornness to push through. My hearing impairment can also be hidden. My speech is pretty good so it doesn’t “give away” the hint of hearing loss. Combined the two issues together and it can really be a doozy, especially with a new cochlear implant processor”Map”.

Yesterday my 83 year old Mom and I went to hear my brother speak at the Novant Cancer Center. He is five and a half years post bone marrow transplant. Praise God he is doing so well. He spoke on his journey, his amazing wife’s strength, God’s provision and healing through the wonders of medicine. He spoke over the staff there, telling them they were like God’s angels as they cared for the patients. It was a beautiful thing. Mom signed a little bit of it so I could basically follow. The thing was, we had to find my brother and hie wife before it started. My Mom was driving (I can’t see well enough to drive) and she put the address in her gps then decided to go another way. So the entire time the gps was telling us to go in a different direction. 🤪 (another suitable occasion for an emoji) We get to the parking deck and didn’t know where to go. Seeing a flight of stairs we went that way. Up several flights, I turned to Mom and said, “Wait here, I’m going to see what’s up there”. So glad I did because it just led to the upper parking deck. Now the thing is, I detest flights of concrete stairs Low vision and flights of stairs don’t go hand in hand. I can’t tell you how many times I have missed a stair while going down. Going up in fine, down, not so much. But I was not going to let my elderly Mom go up all those stairs. We walked across the parking deck towards the “light” (outside). I’m like, “Lord help me not to fall in this parking deck”. We made it (I never mentioned any of this to Mom) went in and supported my brother. When I got home I was so tired. I made dinner, studied for tonight and went to bed. Moral of the story, everyone you see might be struggling with an “unseen” issue. Be mindful of that. Always be open to hearing others situations and needs in a loving way. Always bloom in whatever situation you are in. It’s not about us as individuals but about giving God glory in whatever situation we find ourselves in. In order to bloom we have to watch our attitudes, face expressions, cover whatever it is in prayer and step forward in faith that God is with us every step of the way.

One last thing: last night as I was checking e mails and also the junk email file I saw an intriguing email from a professor. He had found my book Rooted by the water by looking for stories of resilience. Interesting thing is he wanted to know what I have done for exposure for my book. He said it has a 4.6 rating on Goodreads but only 11 reviews. I’m not on Goodreads so I have no clue. I haven’t responded to his e mail. If you knew how many scam emails come through weekly regarding my book, it would blow your mind. That was what I was actually doing last night, deleting potential scammers. This morning a trusted family friend (actually my aunts sister) told me to try a certain app, saying that perhaps it would help with exposure. She said my words needed to be exposed. I’ll take her word for it. I just write what God gives me and “hit publish”. The small beginning started with social media posts, then my autobiography Rooted by the Water , then on to blogging. The audience has been interesting with blogging. It evidently trickles around the world with a few views here and there world wide. It is very interesting to see the map and the country names. So often as I look at it you could hear me say, “This is so weird”. Just being honest. I’m just a hearing and visually impaired woman speaking life into others, advocating for those who might need it and spreading God’s truth. It’s a small beginning but the rewards come in Heaven. If you have read my book, please consider writing a review. It could be on Amazon or Goodreads. (I wasn’t’ aware I was on that.) I would love to somehow get into the library system but have no clue how to go about doing that. I personally read ebooks off Hoopla library app because it’s a way I can see them, zooming the font on my iPad. If you know how to go about entering a recommended book, please reach out.

Wherever you are, whatever the situation don’t despise the small beginnings. God sees you! That’s all that matters. Pray for one another. Be mindful of others issues. Speak LIFE! I say it again… speak LIFE over people and others situations. God bless you all! Now let’s spring into this Spring day. I’ve got to study some more for tonight’s devotion. This teaching never gets easy. Lord take the wheel!! Stepping forward in Faith, knowing God is with us all! Be blessed.