#peoplematter – rootedbythewater.blog

Global Megaphone

July 16, 2026Leave a Comment

Recently I came across an interesting devotion online titled, Faith in the Feed. You can find so many short devotion Bible reading plans on the YouVersion Bible App. I love browsing through the topics and seeing what devotions are offered. As I find one that resonates with me, I save it for reading. Seeing different peoples perspectives on scripture is interesting. The Holy Spirit can show people different things and I enjoy learning from others.

This particular devotion that I came across was talking about sharing the Gospel online. Sharing your faith on your social media feed, email, through comments or even blogging. Back in biblical days, people had to use the infrastructure of the day to travel; whether it be by the Roman highways or by ship. Jesus sent out His disciples to reach everyone. He wants to do the same through us.

Going to the ends of the Earth has never been easier. You don’t even need a passport. Whatever you are reading this blog on, your smart phone, tablet or computer is your digital highway. The infrastructure of today includes fiber optics. Isn’t that amazing! 1 Chronicles 16:24 says, “Publish his glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things he does.” (NLT‬‬) You can testify of the goodness of God through the things you share online. Doing a check of your screen time can be eye opening. How much time do you use just scrolling through entertaining nonsense? I’m guilty of it too. What if we shift our onscreen time to sharing about the Lord and what He is doing in our lives or testifying to what He’s already done. Can you imagine how encouraged people would be and the seeds that would be planted. Matthew‬ ‭9‬:‭37‬-‭38 says, “He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.””‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) Another scripture is Luke ‭14‬:‭23‬; “So his master said, ‘Go out into the country lanes and behind the hedges and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full. (NLT‬‬)

Your smart device is a “global megaphone”. (That term came from the devotion I read.) I found this to be quite impactful. You don’t have to actually leave the country to share the Gospel overseas. You can use your smart phone, tablets or computer. This type of evangelism is important to me because it doesn’t matter that I have hearing and visual limitations. God can use anyone. Be sure that what you share is biblical truth. God’s Word is the foundation on which you build.

Almost five years ago I start this blog as a continuation of my memoir Rooted by the Water. (Amazon) I knew my story didn’t end with the last page of the book. Never in a million years did I think it would reach around the world. I’m not talking about many views, I’m simply saying it’s read all over. This week there have been over 100 views from ten countries including: USA, Italy, Belgium, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Vietnam, France, Germany and the Netherlands. This is very humbling and I surely don’t take this lightly. It is an honor to share God’s Word and how we can bloom for His glory through His strength, even in our lowest weakest points in life. God remains faithful through it all.

I have been thinking about inviting people occasionally to be a guest here on my blogging site. I want to pray on this and see where God leads. God wants us to testify of His goodness and share His Word with others. It’s definitely something I’ve thought about many times.

In true Shannon fashion a song is playing in my heart that I haven’t heard in ages: Lord Most High by Bob Fitts (1996). Part of it goes like this, if you’d like to sing along. “ From the ends of the earth, from the depths of the sea, from the heights of the heavens, Your name be praised. From the hearts of the weak, from the shouts of the strong, from the lips of all people, this song we raise.” Let me see if I can find a video for those who don’t know it. See below for the music video with lyrics. ( I apologize. The video won’t load but you can find it on YouTube.) We all can be a part of sharing the love of God to the ends of the earth. Be blessed in your coming and going and through what you share with others. People are always looking for encouragement. God can use us to to be His hands, feet and even through sharing in our online feed.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Bearing Fruit

July 6, 2026Leave a Comment

My friend Tris sharing the love of Jesus with precious children. (I don’t know who took the picture)

It’s that time of year when fresh fruit is abundant. We just came through strawberry season and now it’s time for peaches and blueberries. I saw a friend post today that their blueberry bushes are ripe for picking. I’ll need to see if Ron will take me over to pick some. Picking fresh fruit is a fun experience, especially when you have low vision like me and have to practically get in the bush to see the berries.

While I love fresh fruit, it’s not what prompted me to this topic. Spiritual fruit is actually what’s on my mind. My devotion this morning was on fruitfulness. It pointed out that not all our fruit is something we see. The fruits we see are possibly the patience and tenderness we have developed over time. It could also be the fruit of a kind heart and long suffering, as you learn to lean into all God has for you and His strength. The devotion also pointed out that some fruit we don’t see, as in legacy. It spoke of seeds planted in children and grandchildren, that reaches far into life after we are gone. I was keenly aware of that type of fruitfulness today as I attended a celebration of life for a friend gone too soon. My friend Trish passed away a little over a week ago from pancreatic cancer at the age of 66. She was not an ordinary woman. She was a humble woman of God, an amazing submissive Godly wife, incredible mom and grandma to over 20 grandchildren. I had never met anyone like her. She lived to love and serve the Lord, her husband Billy, her children, grandchildren, church and community. She and her husband have ministered to people in need all over through their ministry “Hearts Secured Ministry”. She was definitely a Proverbs 31 woman. Listen to these verses. “An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.”Proverbs‬ ‭31‬:‭10‬-‭12‬ ‭(ESV‬‬)

Last night my husband Ron and I went to the visitation; her family lined the fromt of the church. Grandkids lined up on the right, followed by Billy in the middle and all their grown kids on his left side. It was a beautiful sight. As it was Ron and my turn to greet Billy, we hugged him and he sobbed. Trish had been by his side for so many year.s. An extraordinary wife. We comforted and prayed over him then moved along to his grown children. Today as my Mom and I attended the funeral, it was her many seeds of love, prayers, kindness and service showing the fruit of the many “seeds” planted over the course of her life. Provers 31:28 came to mind: “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:” (ESV‬‬) Some of her grown children spoke, some of the grandchildren spoke, several friends, three Pastors and Billy himself. I’ve never seen a big strong man like Billy cry like that. The grown children and grandchild too. That is a strong testament to the legacy of fruitfulness from seeds she has sown during her life. She was and is so loved by so many. Billy gave an altar call at the end of her service and people responded. I know Trish was smiling down from Heaven.

This is fruit I want to produce as well. We should all aim to serve the Lord in every relationship, role, ministry opportunity…. Where ever God plants us… we should aim to bear fruit for His glory. Trish did that! She was loving, gentle, kind, a hard worker alongside her husband. I’m honored to have known her and called her my friend.

Where ever you are in life, you too can bear much fruit for the glory of God. Even in the tough seasons, you can bloom and be fruitful. Maybe sharing your struggles with another person struggling will help them know they aren’t alone. I have attempted to do this for the past five years of blogging. I have no clue the seeds planted from my blog, but I just share what God puts on my heart. He will direct readers to see what is needed. It’s an honor to share and encourage. Trish would read my blogs at items and encourage me. She was a true Angel and will be so missed.

Where ever you are in life, keep blooming and bearing fruit. Some of that fruit is seen now but much will be revealed later through your legacy. Make it impactful with a loving, serving, forgiving and resilient heart.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.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.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

We need more Trail Blazers

March 16, 2026Leave a Comment

For some reason the word “Trail Blazer” popped in my head this afternoon. I can just hear a friend of mine saying, “Girl, you’re thinking too deeply”. Maybe so, but sometimes deep thinking is needed. A trail blazer is a pioneer who sets the way to guide others, possibly in uncharted territory. I’m not talking about physical land, rather I’m talking about being a light for others experiencing darkness. Whether that darkness is social barriers, communication barriers or spiritual barriers. We need people willing to go the “extra mile” to serve others. People who are willing to get out of their comfort zone to help others around them. I do this on Wednesday nights when I share a devotion with people from the homeless shelter. Is it comfortable for me? No but I know God works in our weaknesses if we will surrender. I’ll tell you the truth, it’s a very rewarding experience and it’s never easy doing it.

I heard recently that only 2% of deaf people know Jesus. That is astounding!!! Of all the churches I know of only one has a program for the hearing impaired where they provide sign language interpreters. That same church also provides translations into other languages. It is truly amazing. I’d say, they are Trail Blazers in sharing the Gospel among various languages. It would be nice to see other churches do the same. I have a friend whose family has been attending a church in South Carolina for years. There are no services for her at her church. She has to see it on social media closed captioned in order to receive the message. Church is not only for worship and teaching of the Word of God. It is also for fellowship. Social media is not fellowship. If you are a Pastor or in church leadership and you have someone in your congregation needing special help, go the “extra mile” to provide what is needed for them to participate in the worship service. Some might say, “it’s never been done”. Perhaps so, but perhaps the need is something that is new. Many people won’t speak up and advocate for their needs. It is completely fine to say, “Hey is there anything you can do to help?” Sometimes you have to push a bit but remember only 2% of deaf people are Christians. That is a HUGE population that can be and needs to be reached for the Glory of God!!!

Now on to a different need. There are many people in our communities that need encouragement, prayer, a helping hand etc. It could be the elderly, widows, single mom’s struggling to raise their kids, the homeless. So many people could benefit from someone going out of their way, getting out of their own comfort zone to be a blessing. There is an amazing organization that helps us on Wednesday nights. I’m not sure of the exact name but it’s young men and their moms that show up to help serve the food at the homeless shelter. They are such a blessing. I’m not sure where all they serve but it could be in many places.

In our present culture people are so “sucked in” to their phones, tablets and computers. We need to encourage each other to put those devices aside and interact with people around us. Many young people need mentors that help them to learn social skills. Our children are a valuable blessing to us and they should be protected from worldly ideologies and mentored to serve others and solve problems.

We need people who actually want to get involved and not just sit on the “side lines” as a spectator of the Gospel. The mission field is huge and just needs people who are willing to be the “hands and feet of Jesus”.

Do you see why “Trail Blazers” popped in my head today? There are so many areas of need. Sometimes we need to speak up in a nice respectful way, to “plant some ideas” of things that would be worth the hassle of doing them. It never hurts to ask nicely. It never hurts to try something new that’s maybe never been done in your organization, that would benefit others. It never hurts to serve , as a matter of fact it will bless you beyond your imagination. So… what will you do with this? I know this blog is read in countries around the world. This applies to anyone, anywhere. What will you do with this? Who will you serve? Who will you help? Who will you share the Gospel with? I think you get the idea. Now go and be a blessing and I guarantee you will be so blessed in return.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Dual Birthday

March 12, 2026Leave a Comment

My husband Ron (top) and my Dad (sitting) about 12 years ago.

March 12 changed forever five years ago. Ever since then, it’s been a “dual” birthday: Ron’s earthly birthday and Dad’s Heavenly birthday. It’s a bittersweet celebration ever since Dad passed away. We did go out for an early lunch with my Mom today to celebrate Ron’s birthday, before our son Joshua had to be at work. Ron’s reached an age where he would like to stop counting the years, which is fine, but I told him we were going to celebrate. And so we did and will likely again for a late late birthday dinner. The man needs a slice of cake!

I text my brother this morning as I knew he’d be thinking about Dad too. We had an amazing Dad who was always there for us. I wish he could see us now. Five years later, Forrest is thriving after a successful bone marrow transplant. ( Dad passed a little over six months after the transplant) Dad would be so proud of Mom and how strong she is. Wow! She is a remarkable lady and living life the best way she can, leaning on the Lord. Dad would be in awe of the great grandchildren that have arrived since his passing. I hope Heaven has a “window” where he can take a look and smile. I think he’d be in awe that Forrest is now a Pastor on staff at his church and I’m teaching the weekly devotion at the homeless shelter each Wednesday. He would also be so proud of his grandchildren: Justin, Lauren and Joshua, each living the life God has for them. He’d be so happy to know Joshua chose to be baptized last month and is reading his Bible. God is good and so so faithful. He’d also be happy the Kenley Christmas gathering continues at Jefrey’s each year. Dad always enjoyed time with family. We sure do miss him. The tulip tree we planted in his honor five years ago is in full bloom. It blooms each year around his “home going”.

Ron told me not to mention his birthday on social media and I honored his wishes but he didn’t say I couldn’t mention it in my blog. He’s not one who seeks attention but we celebrate him today~ Happy 60 “something” birthday Ron! We love you and Happy Heavenly birthday Dad! We miss you! Hug your loved ones and celebrate them well. Family is priceless!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

It’s a WRAP!!

December 26, 2025Leave a Comment

Joshua snowboarding (why he isn’t wearing a jacket, I have no clue ) Photo credit – Coleman.

Another Christmas has come to an end. This year was a bit different, but we enjoyed it. That’s the thing about life, you learn to accommodate and live in the moment. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just enjoy each other. That was this year!

We decided to open gifts this year on Christmas eve eve day.(If that makes any sense) Since Ron and I were helping with the Christmas Eve homeless ministry, our son Joshua decided to go snowboarding with a friend that day. We had gotten him some new gear for Christmas so we went ahead and gave it to him so he could put it to good use, enjoying the day of snowboarding. He said the conditions weren’t the best, with fog and a bit icy, but he had fun.

With the homeless outreach that night Ron and I were not sure what we were getting into. Some of the team were out of town and our main leader had been “under the weather” but he made it “with full energy”. (How he does that is a marvel!) I had been praying that it would end up being a special time for the people and God sure did show up!!! A group provided BBQ brisket, baked beans, coleslaw, rolls and gifts. WOW! I honestly misread the text I got. The group also wanted to do the devotion and I read it as decoration. (🤭In true Shannon fashion. When I see a word, I don’t always SEE all the letters. The words have the same beginning and ending letters.). It was all good though. The group was a HUGE blessing. My friends also provided MANY desserts so the people had a nice treat. My Mom joined us as well and she enjoyed it. Afterwards, we went to Waffle House for dinner. There was the coolest truck there covered with Christmas lights and a Santa hat lite up on top. We are so thankful for the Lord’s provision.

Christmas Day, Joshua was invited to one of his best friend’s family farm for lunch. He really enjoyed that and fed the goats and saw the horses. His friend brought him to our family get together at Mom’s for dinner, where we got to see my brother’s family and his grandkids. It was so much fun. I love seeing the little ones enjoy Christmas. Four little angels under the age of four. The excitement and the joy were fun to see. Mom loves when we are all together. It was a nice celebration of Jesus birth. I will say, I got the sweetest gift from our son. He gave me a garnet stone ring in sterling silver. That is his birthstone. I have always wanted one and it is very special.

I did do more studying on the Christmas story this year and am amazed what you can learn when you slow down and really look at the story. It’s so familiar that we can quickly read through it without really letting it sink in our hearts. God loves us so much He wanted to be with us~ Immanuel, God with us! Hearing from God is not about understanding everything, it’s about moving forward in faith. That’s what Mary did. She didn’t understand it all but said, “I am the Lord’s servant, let it be according to your word.” (Luke 1;38) She moved forward in faith. Faith is not having all the answers, but trusting God’s plan. We see this in how Joseph responded when he found out Mary was with child. With instructions from an angel in a dream, Joesph trusted God’s plan.

Christmas proves that God is not distant. He is with us. Jesus came to save us from our sins. 2 Corinthians 9;15 says, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.” (NKJV) “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” ‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭14‬ ‭(ESV‬‬) What an incredible rescue mission God has provided for us to be reconciled to Himself. Then we see in John 1:12, “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,” (ESV) Thank you Lord for loving us so so well!

Gods voice is steady guiding us towards peace and purpose even when our circumstances are overwhelming. We can trust Him. He has proven Himself faithful. It’s my prayer that you will fully put your trust in Jesus and discover for yourself what an awesome God we serve.

Be blessed!! Www.shannonkhinson.com

Perfectly imperfect

October 13, 2025Leave a Comment

Good friends are treasures. They are hard to find but when you find them, you’ve found a prize. The above picture was taken in October 2019. All 6 of my closest girlfriends were on the trip but two aren’’t in this picture. We had gathered on the porch for a group picture. My parents were up for the day and my Mom took the pictures. The story behind this picture: it was starting to drizzle and Leasa who was behind me, was trying to get me to move down the steps into the drizzle. The picture looks like she’s pushing me because I was resisting. The picture was an “accident” but is hilarious. I always say that picture is so “us”.

We’ve all been friends for a long time and have experienced different seasons of life together. We’ve studied the Bible together, laughed until we cried together, gone on trips and celebrated birthdays. We occasionally get on one another’s nerves, but we let it go. We are not perfect but we love unconditionally. That’s the beauty of true friends. You take the good and the not so good, and put it all together and end up with a truly unique group of sisters.

The Bible says in Proverbs 17:17, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” ‭(ESV‬‬) True friends love through misunderstandings. True friends forgive and let it go. You can be your genuine self with friends, not worrying about what they think. A true friend knows your strengths and weaknesses and accepts you anyway. An example of this is us girls playing UNO with extra large cards so I can easily see them. See the below picture.

With true friends you don’t have to take yourselves too seriously. Laughter is good for the soul and we sure do laugh a lot together. We’ve taken so many pictures of so many memories: spontaneous shopping days, LONG 3 hour lunch chat sessions and more.

God places special people in your life to share life experiences with: the good and the not so good. Friends you can depend on to be there and pray. Friends who will help you get your mind off “life” and escape for some much needed fun. Cherish those treasures in your life. Friends truly are a gift from God. So thankful

http://www.shannonkhinson.com

Lessons from a kayak outting

September 25, 2025September 25, 2025Leave a Comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

http://www.shannonkhinson.com.

The Power of Words

May 27, 20252 Comments

Lately I’ve been reading and listening to the book of Proverbs that is so rich in sound advice. I’m currently going through the New Living Translation Today as I listened to several chapters (it’s good auditory therapy for me) I was struck by how many verses are about our speech, the power of words and their impact. Here are quite a few verses I came across today, all of which are from the New Living Translation. “A fool’s proud talk becomes a rod that beats him, but the words of the wise keep them safe.” Proverbs‬ ‭14‬:‭3‬, “The wise are known for their understanding, and pleasant words are persuasive.” Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭21‬, “Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭24‬, “A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends.” Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭28‬, “Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭4‬, “Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!” Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭23‬, “The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.” Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭28‬, “If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise.” Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭31, “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭21‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

Wow this was just from a few chapters. There is so much power in words whether spoken or written/ typed/ texted. How often do we think about the impact of our words? How often do we say or text something in haste, then regret it? (Or edit what was sent?). Editing is a luxury of modern times, however spoken words once said can impact in a powerful way.

Let’s think about our words. With words we encourage, inspire, spread cheer, correct, hurt, tear down, gossip and crush. We would be wise to choose our words carefully. We can light up the world or burn it down with the words we choose. Let’s choose to encourage and build up, refraining from causing destruction.

Today I got a notification from my blogging site that I’ve hit a milestone: over 10,000 views. I was humbled. I never take lightly the responsibility of blogging. God will hold me accountable for the words I send out. I want to always encourage and inspire people to trust God in life’s storms. Four years ago in the midst of Covid-19, when I published my autobiography, I felt a burden to encourage people. Rooted by the Water is my testimony of walking with God and relying on Him despite life’s hardships. That’s why I started and have continued to blog for the last four years, to spread hope, joy, resilience and the fact that You can do hard things with God’s help.

As I read Proverbs today, saw the notification of having over 10,000 views on rootedbythewatere.blog it was confirmation of the power of words. I pray that God continued to guide me in topics to blog on and stories to share to bring joy and laughter to the heart.

You don’t have to be a blogger, writer, teacher, preacher etc to realize the impact of the words you choose to use. Let’s all be aware of power behind what we say. Let’s build up and encourage others.

If you’re going to say negative things, gossip, argue, bring division and tear down, do everyone a favor and zip it! Those negative words have an impact that spills into those around you. Positive words have the opposite effect and bring joy to others. Let’s make the world a better place, one positive encouraging word at a time.

You can find my book Rooted by the Water on Amazon (ebook, soft cover and hard cover). If you know someone who could use some encouragement, send them a copy. You can also subscribe to my blog. This coming July will mark four year of blogging once or twice a week. It’s my hearts desire to bring glory to God through sharing how He brings beauty from the hard things in life. Thank you all for your support and prayers. God is faithful always. Be blessed!!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Morning Song

March 17, 2025Leave a Comment

Occasionally I will wake with a song on my heart. I love mornings like today. I woke from a deep sleep, all wrapped tight in warm covers. The light of dawn was faintly coming through the window. Lying there I longed to go back to sleep but instead a song began in my heart. Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in His wonderful face. And the things of the earth will grow strangely dim. In ight of His glory and grace. (By Sovereign Grace 2019) This was such a precious way to start my day.

Yesterday I struggled with disappointment in people. I’m not usually one to “vent” because it just weighs on another and accomplishes nothing really. We had stayed home from church since the weather was rainy with gusty winds. I watched both early and late service with no closed caption. The second service I followed fairly well. Thank you Jesus.

It is interesting how when you aren’t busy, your mind can become a battle ground. The guys had gone to the gym. Staying home, my mind turned to people issues. Of all things Why in the world would my mind go there? We can’t do anything about the way people are and how others can drain life out of us. So yesterday I did want to “vent” but I prayed instead. I asked God to check MY heart. I asked Him to help me to respond in a way to bring glory to Him. Did my feelings go away? Nope! However, I started straightening up the closet and rediscovered a perfume box full of old pictures and cards. I sat at the table and began looking through them. Ron and Joshua came home and they too began to look through them. I found pictures from a Croatia mission trip when I was 3 months pregnant with Joshua. There were pictures of our first house and from a trip to the Bahamas with friends. Joshua saw these pictures from early in our marriage and he said, “What happened?” 😂I said , “31 years of marriage!” All in all it was a nice distraction from my previous line of thinking.

I did finally reach out to a friend late last night. I had told Ron I was feeling a bit depressed, but I’m the type to just “suck it up, buttercup”. I just deal with it and let it go. Or try to. It was nice sharing with my friend late last night She too understands disappointments with people. I told her I’ve learned to try to be content with whatever. (I can’t drive. I can’t do the things I want to do. I can’t make people care.) I’ve just learned to be content. My friend said, “A female version of Paul: Paulette”. That was seriously one of the nicest compliments. After sharing my heart, she had given me a different perspective and I felt better. So this morning, waking up to “Turn your eyes upon Jesus” was so fitting. It’s a new day and the sun is shining. It doesn’t matter what today holds, Jesus goes before me, follows me and lays His head of blessing on my head. I will turn my eyes upon Him and sure enough the cares of this world grow strangely dim, in light of His glory and grace.
Have a blessed day!
Www.shannonkhinson.com