#humannature – Page 6 – rootedbythewater.blog

Just a thought?

December 2, 20221 Comment

I came across this quote today when I saw a friends post. “You need to learn how to select your thoughts just the same way you select your clothes every day. This is a power you can cultivate.” Elizabeth Gilbert. What a powerful truth! Just think, if we spent as much time selecting our thoughts as we do our wardrobe how much our lives would improve. Choose your thoughts carefully and be careful of what lingers there. 2 Corinthians 10:5 says, “We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.” (ESV)

Our thought life can feed our emotions. It’s wise to realize that our minds are a battle ground. We can and should filter our thoughts, but how? Philippians 4:8 tells us, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (ESV) emphasis mine. That’s pretty clear instructions.

There is always the temptation to speculate. People form ideas and thoughts based on things they think but are not factual. When the temptation arises, filter those thoughts.

Not only do we have power over our thoughts but we also have power over the words we speak. Speak positively! Speak life! I have known so many people who have been hurt by careless words. When our son was growing up, I told him “Spoken words are like toothpaste. Once it’s out you can’t put it back in”. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭21‬ ‭(ESV‬). Whoa! That’s powerful!

As we enter the holiday season where there ate many gatherings, let’s be mindful and considerate of those around us. Control your thoughts and your speech. Give the gift of genuine affection and encouragement. Everyone has issues whether they want to admit it or not. Everyone could use a smile, kind words and even a hug.

Let’s spread gifts of peace, kindness, love and joy! I don’t know about you but when I do these things it makes my heart feel happy. Be blessed as you be a blessing
Wwwlshannonkhinson.com
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Do You?

November 23, 2022Leave a Comment

As I was reading the Bible this morning, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 stood out to me. These verses actually challenge me every time I read them. “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ -18 (NIV‬)‬. This is beyond challenging from a human point of view. That’s the thing, God wants us to depend on Him to enable us to do this. Can you imagine rejoicing or having great delight, ALWAYS? That’s what the verse says.

What about praying continually? When we have a relationship with Jesus we want to talk to Him about everything. The more I study the Bible, Gods Word and spend time with Him, the easier it gets to pray about everything. God cares about every single detail of our lives. As a mom, I love when my son wants to talk to me, ask for help or my opinion. God is the same way! He desires us to bring situations to Him and ask him to help us through whatever it is. It’s a loving relationship that draws us to pray continually! God loves us so much He gave His only son. John 3:16 says, ““For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.(ESV‬). I could go on and on here but bottom line is, God loves you more than you can ever possibly imagine. He is delighted when we desire to pray continually. Praying changes things! It may not always play out the way you think it will. The situation may not change in the way you want it to. However I am certain of this, prayer will change you! Your attitude will changes. Anger and negative feelings will change. Prayer will change your view on what’s going on. God enables us to see things differently. Sometimes that different perspective is all that needed to enable you to endure.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us to give thanks in ALL circumstances, (emphasis added). This is a tough one. In my personal life, living with hearing and visual limitations, thanking God for these things is hard. This is what God has shown me: Be thankful for what I can see and hear. Yes I do have significant loss BUT I still have some vision and some hearing. I’m beyond thankful for what I have even if it’s limited.

You may be thinking; Shannon you have no clue what I’m dealing with. You’re right, I don’t but God does! If you woke up this morning, He has a purpose for your day. “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭136‬:‭1‬ ‭(ESV‬‬). Give thanks! You can find something to thank God for. When you focus on blessings, your attitude will change.

I understand that life is frustrating and dealing with people can be trying. The Bible gives us some practical ways to triumph over them. Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭6 says, “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (ESV). So when you pray, thank God for working it out according to His perfect Will. Thank Him for His faithfulness. Thank Him that His promises stand.

Recently my husband and I were talking about health insurance. He was frustrated because it’s hard to get people on the phone then you are transferred around until someone finally can answer your questions. He was telling me, “I can’t get anyone on the phone!” I challenged him to be thankful in the situation. I told him, “We’ve prayed now let’s thank God for working it out.” His answer… “But you don’t understand.” I told him to just do it. Thank God for His favor. Thank God for working this out. Thank God when someone answers the phone. Thank God when the call is transferred because they are seeking a solution.” You get the picture?

So as we head into the holiday season let’s rejoice always, pray continually and be thankful in all circumstances because God is faithful always.

You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. Happy Thanksgiving

Www.shannonkhinson.com

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Speak Clearly

November 11, 20222 Comments

As I type this blog entry, I’m sitting in our sons old room, preparing for an opportunity to share my testimony tomorrow at a small group. I’m not one for self promotion but I will gladly share what God has done in my life. I have a unique story but only have about 30-40 minutes to share tomorrow. I’ve been praying about this all week and started making some notes this afternoon to guide my thoughts.

This afternoon when my husband Ron got off work I took a break and we had a late lunch with our son Joshua. We went to Bad Daddy Burger since my husband could get a free Veterans Day meal. Afterwards we went to the house where Joshua lives with some friends. It was a fun visit and Joshua and I played some indoor basketball. I stink but by the time we finished I was getting the hang of it. Once back home, I sat back down to continue preparing for tomorrow.

I know my purpose in life is to bring God glory through whatever situation He puts me in. As I sit here preparing, tears are rolling down my cheeks. It’s like a dam breaks and the tears roll down. The thing with most peoples testimony, it’s what God has brought you through. Like you have come through this and it’s because of God bringing you through. My testimony is a continuous test…. test after test after test. Seriously, it’s only because of the goodness of the Lord and the strength He gives me that I endure. His grace is certainly sufficient. His power is poured into my brokenness. It is HIStory, His strength, His everything. I am nothing without Jesus. He is faithful in all things.

My prayer is that He will speak clearly through me to encourage others. Life is not easy but all things are possible through Him. May more doors of opportunity open according to His will. Lord help me to speak clearly and from my heart to bring glory and honor to Your name. Thank you Jesus! Amen!

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

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Where do you hide?

November 3, 2022Leave a Comment

Some times in life you may feel the urge to withdraw. You may feel a desire to hide your true self. There is much pressure in society to accept things contrary to your beliefs. Others might feel called to pursue something but afraid to take the risks of looking foolish. Whatever the reason, you can’t hide from God. He is not in any one location. He is everywhere. Psalms 139 is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible. I have many favorites but this one always touches my heart.

“I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me. “Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭7‬ – 10 (NLT‬‬)

It’s comforting to know that God is with us where ever we are. We are never out of His reach Even in those lonely and isolating times, He is there, ready to comfort and love us. He longs for us to seek Him with all our heart.

Recently I was talking with my friend Valerie. We were talking about the sad state of our world and culture. The depravity of the world has gotten so bad. I told her some times I feel like I live under a rock because I’m not into tv, movies, or secular music. As I thought on that… living under a rock, I said, “That’s right! I live under The Rock – Jesus Christ!” A worship song is playing in my heart right now. “My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus name.“. (Robert Critchley Lyrics to My Hope is Built on Nothing Less. 2007) This resonates with me.

When I hear of the things going on in our society I am blown away by how far the moral has fallen. The indoctrination and grooming of children is mind blowing. Cancel culture and having unique values is like walking on egg shells. My husband recently spoke to a young man. He greeted him, “Hey man”. This is not unusual. My husband is very friendly and talks to everyone. This particular guy said, “I’m a girl”. So my husband said, “Hey girl”. He wasn’t being mean or rude but just trying to be friendly. People are so confused. It is just beyond me to understand the times we live in.

I was recently filling out forms online for an appointment I had and the questions asked were absurd. One example: What gender do you identify with? This was for a doctors appointment! I just don’t understand the confusion in our society. It’s beginning to be frowned upon to have high values and integrity. It makes no sense at all! Good has become evil and evil has become good. Don’t be afraid to speak truth in love. You can hide in Christ. He is our Cornerstone. “When darkness veils His lovely face, I rest on His unchanging grace, In every high and stormy gale, my anchor holds within the veil.” (Robert Critchley, Lyrics to My Hope is Built on Nothing Less, 2007)

I’m so thankful God does not expect me to understand but to just trust Him. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬ -6 NASB2020‬‬. All we can do is trust God and allow His love and truth to shine through us. If you get weary of this world just hide/rest in Jesus. Let Him renew you and fill you with His Spirit to rise up again.

Dear Jesus restore our resolve to stand firm for You in this spiritually dark world. Pierce the darkness and expose any deception. Set people free from the confusion of the enemy. We ask you to shine brightly and bring salvation to the lost that You purchased with Your blood on the cross. In Jesus name Amen.

http://www.shannonkhinson.com

What do you see?

October 13, 20221 Comment

When you see people do you really see them? There are so many factors that come together to make people the way they are. You may be asking, what factors? The environments people are raised in, both good and bad, shape people. The types of families, patents, parenting styles have a huge affect on people. The words spoken over people both positive and negative, shape them and the way they think. Past hurts, successes and shortcomings, all factor in. Ones abilities and disabilities and societies response to those can cause life long attitudes and perceptions.

You might be wondering why I’m rambling on like this. As some one with visual and hearing limitations, I truly “See” people. People need love and acceptance.

The American culture and society right now is such a complete mess, It breaks my heart. The lack of morales and upright values is downright appalling. And we wonder why people are so messed up and hurt.

What can we do in light of our current cultural depravity? We can be a listening ear and make time to hear another’s heart. We can and should ask God to give us His perspective on whats occurring around us. We can pray! We can pray that God gives us a heightened sensitivity to what is happening around us. There is such great power in prayer. Just do it! Make the time to ask God what He thinks about what’s going on. Be part of the loving caring solution. We can’t remove ourselves from this world but we can SHINE for Jesus in the murky darkness.

I find myself praying often for children and young adults. I pray God cancels out every plan the enemy has for our young ones. I pray God will pierce the darkness and expose things hidden in plain sight. If you are a person of influence, a parent, educator, business owner, coach, mentor: what can you do to push against this negative culture? You can speak life and truth in love. Value all people. Stand in the gap in prayer and positive living. You can say one thing with your words and something entirely different with your body language and indifference.

Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
‭‭(‬ ‭NIV‬‬). Will you surrender to Jesus and let Him give you a fresh perspective? “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭10:9‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

Lord help us to make a difference. Help us to realize you desire to use us to bring about good and healing. You are El Roi, the God who sees. Nothing is hidden from you. May our surrender and obedience be an act of loving worship as you use us for your glory. In Jesus name Amen!

To read more of my story you can find my autobiography on Amazon in hard cover, soft cover and e book formats. “Rooted by the Water” by Shannon Kenley Hinson.
Www.shannonkhinson.com

His Grace is Enough

August 22, 20221 Comment

Lately grace has been on my mind. If not for God’s grace, where would I be in life? Life is full of complications and sometimes keeping a positive outlook can be quite a stretch. There is a saying, “But for the grace of God…” Amen!

If you are like me, you may have been praying for years and years for breakthroughs on many different things. When the answers don’t come like I think, it is tempting to get discouraged. It’s vital to remember to pray “thy will be done”, not my will but God’s.

I love when people are real and transparent. No one has a perfect life. When we share struggles with one another we are encouraged that we aren’t alone. When we share our victories we can rejoice together.

My friend and I met for our Bible study today. I am so thankful for her. She blesses my heart Today we talked about the sovereignty of God. I love how we can share our lives and what God is teaching us. We can encourage each other. As we studied today we saw how the scriptures prove that God has complete control over everything. It is comforting to know that I don’t need to worry because God is going to work it out according to His perfect Will. Romans 8:28 says “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”(‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

Life happens. When we wake up each day we give it our best shot. Yet sometimes our best shot falls short of the expectations we set for ourself. I must be mindful that as thankful as I am for Gods grace, I also must show myself grace. I am far from perfection but I do set high expectations for myself. When high expectations meet low vision and hearing issues, it’s a big frustration waiting to happen. The amount of typos I make on this iPad touch screen would blow your mind. So whether it’s a text, e mail, blog, comment… whatever it is, I have to zoom in large and I do mean LARGE to see and correct all the many typos. Lord help me and thankfully He does!

What doesn’t break you makes you stronger! We need refining in trials of life in order to reflect Gods character and bring glory to Him. James‬ ‭1:2- 4 says, ‬“Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
‭‭(‭NASB2020‬)‬

Have you had any trials lately? Can you find joy in those trials? In all honesty, I must say no. I don’t find joy in the trials but God willing, as He continues to work on me and show me grace, I will. It can be tiresome but we must keep our focus on our destination… Jesus. “Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen.”
‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭3:18‬ ‭(NLT‬)

In true Shannon fashion, a song just popped into my head and I most likely have the lyrics wrong but here goes… There ain’t no doubt about it, I’m on my way home. I’m not yet where I’m going, but I’m a long way from where I was. I hear a crowd of angels cheering me on…. There ain’t no doubt about it, I’m on my way home.”

As we wrap up Monday, I will say “good night everybody”. Keep on keeping on. New grace and mercies await us in the morning. Thank you Jesus!

If you’d like to check out my autobiography , “Rooted by the Water” you can find it on Amazon in hard cover, soft cover and e book formats. Thank you for journeying with me. Please subscribe to my blog and share it with others. Blessing to you all.

Through another’s eyes 👁👁

August 3, 20225 Comments

Life lies in the eyes of the beholder. How you see the world is influenced by your circumstances, attitudes, abilities, short comings and beliefs. Human nature is so complex. Peoples approaches and reactions to life are even more complex.

I love when people share their life struggles. To listen to peoples hearts is such a privilege. Having hearing and visual issues brings extra hurdles but one on one, I’m usually fine.

It’s refreshing when people take the time to really listen. Most people are so wrapped up in themselves these days that they don’t have time. When listening to others I try to see things through their eyes. I see the personalities and the way they engage in situations. It’s a marvel and perplexing at the same time. One thing I try to do is see things through their eyes or in other words through their perspective. Truly understanding one another is a gift. It takes compassion and grace. It takes empathy. It’s the acceptance that life is not all about you and yours but others as well. People matter. Look around and be willing to share life with others.

I know dealing with people can be challenging. I will admit to a lot of eye rolling. The person might not see it but I’m reminded that God does. Many times I have to pray for grace. Lord help me to show grace and mercy as you always shower them on me. It’s about finding balance. It’s a give and take. The best gift is to give of your heart. Take time to lift up those who need encouragement. Make time to celebrate others blessings.

I don’t know what your week has been like but we are half way through it. We are at a midpoint. Let’s really look around us and see what we can do for one another. People are precious…. All people. Make the time to listen and care. You will be so glad you did.

My website is still down. Thankfully I have the files but am waiting for a friend to show me how to transfer them to a new site. I’m hoping to combine my website and blog together. It is coming along just rather slowly. In the meantime if you’d like to check out my book “Rooted by the Water” you can find it on Amazon in hard over, soft cover and e book formats. Thank you for journeying with me. Please subscribe to my blog and share it with others. Blessing to you all.

Stirred byWhat?

July 11, 2022Leave a Comment

Today I’d like to continue on the topic of stirring. Specifically what stirs you? What irritates you and prompts you to speak or act? There are so many things that stir people to react that it’s impossible to list them all. The level of maturity, restraint, strength, self control and compassion can dictate how you handle those things that trigger you.

Yesterday my son Joshua and I spent some time together. He is one of my favorite people. Since returning home from Arizona he has moved back in with us until he decides what he wants to do. We are savoring this time together. He has had some quality times with his dad but yesterday it was just the two of us. We got some subs from Jersey Mikes then got groceries. We talked about all sorts of things. We came across the topic of things that are annoying. It was kind of funny because dealing with people can be a huge test of character. As I listened I understood his point of view and I also took his age into consideration. When I was 24 I thought along the same lines. Amazing how wisdom comes with age. I told him people will be people. You can’t let it bother you. It’s best to just let it go. Sure it is annoying and yes it takes self control to not respond to it but we have to rise above the situation and let it go. Life is largely out of our control. We don’t have to let negativity around us affect our day. Just do what you can with kindness and move on. A positive loving word can go a long way.

So what stirs people? Why are people so angry, bitter,self centered and proud? Granted, I do miss a lot having low vision and hearing issues but I truly “see” people. I ask questions. I ask my husband things all the time. I ask him about peoples face expressions and things they say. I ask him about people driving along, what they look like, expressions and mannerisms. I’m just intrigued by human nature and how people respond to things. Behind every harsh look or bitter response there is a person who quite possibly is hurting and in need of grace and love. When situations and people make you angry think beyond the situation to what truly is the root of the issue. The Bible tells us in Ephesians‬ ‭6:12, “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.”(New Living Translation) Let’s let that scripture sink into our hearts.

There is more to be shared on this topic. Im going to meditate on Gods Word and see what he reveals to me. Stay tuned…..
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What did you wear?

June 1, 20222 Comments

As we wrap up this Wednesday, I’d like to ask you a question. Thinking back on your day today, what did you wear? What did you take off or put on? Climate and temperatures are out of our control but we can be prepared. If you live in the Carolinas you can experience all seasons in January. Our weather is so unpredictable. Lately it’s been pretty hot! So we dress according to the weather.

Our society temperatures can vary as well. Opinions can be all over the spectrum on every imaginable topic. I can find myself taking a certain “stance” and must be mindful of humility. Everyday is full of opportunities to shine for Jesus. 1 Peter 3:15 says “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” NKJV. The ESV says with “gentleness and respect”. Our stance on subjects and attitudes in general play a huge role in our effectiveness in sharing God’s love.

Let’s be really honest here. Some times people can press and press until you just want to snap. We can be tempted to be defensive and easily offended. When we forget whose battle it is we can quickly snuff out our light. Even the disciples could become offended. When the Samaritan village rejected Jesus in Luke 9, James and John wanted to call down fire from Heaven. Luke 9:54 “And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, “Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” ‭ESV‬‬. Oh boy! I’ve seen some heated debates before (even been on a few) and it’s refreshing to know the disciples also experienced this. Let’s take a look at Jesus response. Luke 9:55-56 “But he turned and rebuked them. And they went on to another village.” Sometimes we just have to move on. We can’t win every debate and we can’t be offended by every opposition. We can choose to put on humility, love, respect and grace. Be sure to throw off hostilities and anger. Those won’t get you anywhere but in trouble.

From a spiritual perspective we can always dress for success. Colossians‬ ‭3:12‬ says “Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”NLT. So let’s be mindful of what we put on and take off. Dressing effectively God’s way is the way to go. Be blessed!

If you’d like to read more of my story please check out my autobiography “Rooted by the Water”. It’s a true story of how God has enabled me to overcome great difficulties, not by my own strength but through His strength made perfect in my weaknesses. You can find it on Amazon and many other online retailers such as Barnes & Noble, Books a Million, Target and Walmart.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

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