#peoplematter – Page 3 – rootedbythewater.blog

Glimpses of Grace

April 28, 2023Leave a Comment

Life can really put us through a “wringer” and having a strong support system is so vital. I have experienced this in my own life as I wrestle with hearing and visual issues. I also see strong support systems evident in people around me and it makes my heart fill with joy. It’s like God gives you “glimpses of grace” that spur you along. It’s like a heightened sensitivity to the Holy Spirit at work around you.

I love the Bible study group God has me in. We are a group of five, four deaf and one hearing. All of us have experienced difficulties in life and it’s beautiful to see the hand of God at work. Psalms‬ ‭51‬:‭17‬ ‭ says, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart— These, O God, You will not despise.” (NKJV‬‬). When we come together to study Gods Word, to encourage each other and pray, God smiles.

The past several weeks we had not been able to meet due to sickness of one friends father that resulted in him passing away. Yet I see glimpses of Gods grace during these last few weeks. Four of us had already lost our fathers so we knew the heartache and could extend loving support. 2 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭4 says, “who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” (NKJV‬‬). I love how God works.

This week we were finally able to be together again for our study. Our friend who had lost her father brought her Bernedoodle Rocky with her. That dog is a love bug and has the cutest personality. As we began our study, she let him out in the backyard but did not think he would get in the pool. A few minutes later another friend happened to look out the window witnessing Rocky diving in the pool. We all dashed out of the house and his mom grabbed him by the harness pulling him to safety. After the crisis was averted we had the best laugh. There is nothing like a deep heartfelt laugh from deep within. A merry heart does good like medicine, Proverbs 17:22 (NKJV)

How does your support system look? Do you have a relationship with Jesus Christ? He is my Rock, the one who gets me through every situation. He is my anchor. The one who holds me steady in the raging storms of life. When you know Him, He gives you glimpses of grace that keep you faith and hope alive.

As I started blogging this morning, the title had been in my spirit for a few days. I had some thoughts on what I would write about but the Lord has directed me in a similar yet different direction. I trust His prompting and know it will accomplish what He desires. At the end of this post I want to share a YouTube music video form church with Larry Green singing Horizon. This blesses me every time I hear it and I pray it blesses you too.

If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. I write when God puts something on my heart. 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. All for the Glory of God. Be blessed!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Thankfully it got better

April 24, 20231 Comment

Today was an impromptu family day. We have a tiny family of three with me being the only girl. Our son Joshua called saying he was off and wanted to see if we wanted to go to a shooting range out in the country. I’ve only been to an indoor range but never one outside. Ron loaded up the gear and we took off for an adventure on this gorgeous Spring day.

We arrived at the outdoor range to find it was closed today. That was a bummer since it was so nice outside. The guys decided to go to an indoor shooting range. I’ve only gone once before and that was about five years ago. I remember the shock of how powerful the explosions sounded with gun powder and shells flying. Lord have mercy! I don’t mind doing things with the guys. We’ve gone fishing, four wheeling, rock climbing, jet skiing, zip lining and so much more.
Truth be told, shooting guns is not my “cup of tea”. I would bait a fishing hook any day over shooting guns. However I was a good sport since I love my guys and spending time together doesn’t happen as often as I’d like.

Once we got to the indoor range, we were the only three people shooting at first. Some were leaving as we arrived. I noticed a sign as we were entering that said “No rapid fire”. No problem from me. The guys got the targets set up and Ron loaded a gun for me. Just like last time, it scared the daylights out of me. My cochlear implant processor was off and I had double ear protection on and it was STILL LOUD! This time I expected the gun-smoke and flying shells but it still scared me. Joshua took a video of me shooting and thought it was funny. Another guy had come in and was shooting a few spaces down from us. In the video you can hear rapid gun fire and I pause looking over thinking; Can’t the guy read the sign? I finished my second round and told Ron I was finished and would watch the rest of the time. This will never be my sport. Put me on the lake doing whatever water sport any day but I don’t care for shooting guns. I did pretty well my second round and hit the red part of the target twice. Not too shabby.

Our next stop was a tractor supply store. I’ve only been to one once before and I remembered seeing baby chickens so I went in search to see if this location had any. Sure enough they had some bins of baby chickens under warm lights. Too bad our home owners association won’t let people have them in our neighborhood.

We ended our family day at Papa Docks for dinner on the deck overlooking Lake Wylie. It used to be T Bones at the lake and we have many memories from going there and riding our old sea-doo around that area. It was a nice ending to our impromptu family day. I’m happy we can still have fun family days with just the three of us. Our son is now 25 so the family days don’t happen as often but when they do, it’s a real treat. Cherish your family times and don’t be afraid to do guy things with the guys. I came across a Helen Keller quote recently that is fitting for this moment: Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. The fearful are caught as often as the bold.

If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. This was not my usual blog post but a fun glimpse at a day in my life. 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. All for the Glory of God. Be blessed!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

An inspiring encounter

April 20, 2023Leave a Comment

Just sat down with a cup of hot tea, while trying to gather my thoughts. It’s a rare day when I crank out two blog posts. I thought about combining this with the blog I published earlier today but this deserves its own entry.

My husband Ron and I went to Culver’s for lunch to get a good hamburger. As we walked in there was a guy with a table set up selling a children’s book he had written. Of course Ron started a conversation with him. Ron talks to everyone. As we stepped up to place our order, Ron told me the guy is blind. He is totally blind in one eye and can see slightly with the other. I said, “Let’s buy one of his books to support him.”

We sat down at a table close to where the guy had his table set up. I told Ron it takes great courage to do what this guy was doing. Ron told me I could set up a table too. I said, “ Would you talk to the people? He can hear what people are saying while I catch parts of it. ”

An inspiring blind author of children’s books.

After we finished eating, we went over introducing ourselves and purchased his book. He told us a little bit of his story and I told him a bit of mine and about my book. I watched with admiration as he signed the book for me. I personally don’t like to sign books in front of people because it’s hard to see what I’m writing. He had no issues with holding the book closely so he could see a little out of his one eye. I asked if I could have a picture taken with him and write a blog about meeting him. He agreed. Excuse my appearance in the picture. I had no intention of going anywhere today. It was a natural no makeup or hair products kind of day. This awesome inspiring guys name is Jared Jackson. As I brought the book home and put it under my video magnifier so I could read it, I discovered it is quite a cute book. Not only did he write it but he also did the illustrations. Check out Where Does the Man in the Moon Go During the Day? by Jared Jackson. You can find it on Amazon.

This was the first time I’ve ever met another blind author. I wanted to write this post to promote his book after reading it. He is a courageous inspiring man and did a fine job on his book. Check it out.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

What lens are you looking through?

April 2, 2023Leave a Comment

At my last Bible study we met at Brixx Pizza for lunch and our discussion on a virtuous woman. One friend forgot her reading glasses so the others offered to share theirs. Depending on the strength of the lens, things will look different even though you are examining the same thing.

Life perspective is so much like this. What lens are you looking through
on a day to day basis? For example, some people seem to find some thing positive in everything. It’s sort of like a silver liner. There are others that seem to always have a critical view. These two types of people can be examining the exact same thing, yet will have opposite things to say. It makes me wonder sometimes why people think and respond the way they do. Many factors can contribute to which “lens” they look through. Let’s brainstorm some of those possible contributing factors. Past experiences can certainly play a role. The way you were raised can play a big part. A few other things that come to mind are; your view of self, support system and things you allow to influence you.

I don’t always have a “sunny” disposition, although I try to keep things positive. I may have a little advantage because with low vision I can be very choosy regarding what I’m exposed to. For example, yesterday a friend took me to Cabellas to get a life jacket. ( Someone gave me a two seater kayak and I’m so excited. Thats another blog post. Coming soon) Back to Cabellas… when we were in the checkout line, I got the impression my friend wanted me to change lines but I didn’t know why until it was my turn to check out. I can’t see very far but once I was at the cash register I noticed the cashier had a very dark unfriendly look. Her face was barely showing with all the dark hair and dark mask. I paid for my life jacket, thanked the cashier and walked out. I then told my friend, we need to let others see Jesus in us. We can’t judge people by the way they look just like we can’t judge a book by its cover. In all fairness, a beautiful cover draws interest for a closer look.

None of us are perfect. Everyday brings new opportunities to make a difference in the lives of all you encounter. I came across a fascinating quote recently by D L Moody: “The only way to keep a broken vessel full is to keep the faucet running.” We are all broken and what “lens” we look through determines our responses. If we keep the faucet of Gods Word pouring into us, Jesus will pour over into those we encounter. When we allow the worlds views to constantly pour into us, we only become further broken. Saturate yourself in Gods Word and let it transform you. Live in the overflow of Jesus and watch the awesome things that happen around you.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

There’s something about serving.

March 28, 2023Leave a Comment

This morning I woke with praise in my heart. As I got ready to go volunteer at the Fort Mill Church of God food pantry, joy filled my heart. On the ride there, I asked my husband Ron if he ever woke up with a song in his heart. He said no. I’m curious if other people wake up like this. I said, “ You know that worship chorus, We lift you up, we lift you up, we lift you up, we lift you up, we praise you, we praise you “. I just wanted to lift my hands in worship and praise God.

There is just something special about doing something for others. It takes the focus off yourself and your issues. It gives you a chance to bless others. Every community has opportunities to help others. It could be visiting a shut in or watching a child so a mom can take a break. It could be just taking time from your busy day to text someone to encourage them. Many churches, ministries and schools have many opportunities to get involved and be a blessing. In giving the gift of yourself, you receive the gift of joy. Go be a blessing today.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

The heart of the matter

March 14, 2023Leave a Comment

What’s the state of your heart? It’s a pretty heavy question but begs an answer. All you have to do is turn your tv on, surf the web, see whats getting all the attention in society and the big arguments being heard everywhere and it spells depravity of hear! I’ve always been fascinated by why people act the way they do. More and more things are being twisted out of proportion. It makes me wonder where is logic? Do people even bother to think these days? It’s a relevant question worthy of consideration.

Right now I’m doing a couple of different Bible studies and reading through the Bible as well. It is astounding how stubborn the Israelites were in the Old Testament. One of the studies I’ve done recently talked about sheep and how incredibly stubborn they are. We can be referred to as sheep needing a shepherd. That particular lesson was on the Lord my Shepherd. It gave insight into how sheep behave and how Jesus provides for us, cares and protects us.

The lesson we discussed yesterday spoke on the Lord our righteousness. My Bible study sister asked me what difference knowing Jesus this way has made in my life. I told her it has made all the difference in the world. Because of Jesus sacrifice on the cross for my sins, because of his resurrection, because He forgives me when I confess my sins, He is my righteousness. When God looks at me, He sees His Son Jesus Christ. I’m forever thankful!

This evening I decided to cross reference a few of the scriptures to see how difference translations compare. I don’t typically read the Message but these next few verses I will share from the Message are quite interesting in that translation. “The heart is hopelessly dark and deceitful, a puzzle that no one can figure out. But I, God, search the heart and examine the mind. I get to the heart of the human. I get to the root of things. I treat them as they really are, not as they pretend to be.”” Jeremiah‬ ‭17‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭(MSG‬ ) OUCH!! I’ve done some pretending before, how about you?

‬ Here’s another one. “Everyone’s after the dishonest dollar, little people and big people alike. Prophets and priests and everyone in between twist words and doctor truth. My people are broken—shattered!— and they put on Band-Aids, Saying, ‘It’s not so bad. You’ll be just fine.’ But things are not ‘just fine’! Do you suppose they are embarrassed over this outrage? No, they have no shame. They don’t even know how to blush. There’s no hope for them. They’ve hit bottom and there’s no getting up. As far as I’m concerned, they’re finished.” God has spoken.” Jeremiah‬ ‭6‬:‭13‬-‭15‬ ‭(MSG‬‬)

Whoa! Now that’s our present society right there! There are so so many half truths, flat our lies and darkness that people try to “ superficially heal”.

What the world needs is the Light of Jesus shining bright and exposing sins. God knows the helpless state of humanity, that’s why He gave us the new covenant. He wants to take away the hearts of stone and put His laws in our hearts. Ezekiel 36: 26-27 says, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.” (NKJV)

I find it so amazing how the Bible is so relevant today. It’s God’s love letter to us. It’s our instruction book to get through this life. I don’t know about you but falling in love with Jesus and accepting His free gift of salvation is the best thing I’ve ever done. The prayer of my heart is like King David’s in Psalms 51:10, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (NKJV)

God understands our desperate need for Him. Sometimes in the chaos of dealing with life, He seems so far away He is right there with you every step of the way. He can give you a new heart. He desires to be the “lover of your soul”.

The Bible study I refer to in this blog is written by Kay Arthur. It is called Lord I want to know you. I purchased the digital version but have also seen her Bible studies on Amazon. I have done many of her studies. They take you deeper into The Word of God.

If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. 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
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A Truth Bomb

February 25, 2023Leave a Comment

Often times inspiration for a blog comes in the morning. However, I don’t always have time to sit down and get it typed up. Today was one of those days.

Last night and this morning were kind of odd because some old old songs popped in my head and kept playing. The one that came last night, I wasn’t even sure about the lyrics so I typed in what I remembered and Dionne Warwick’s song I’ll never love this way again popped up. It’s ok to laugh. It was quite odd. I didn’t even remember all the words but “ I’ll keep holding on, I’ll keep holding on…” played over and over in my mind. What in the world set that off? Again this morning another old song played in my mind and it’s been playing all day. At the risk of exposing my age, it was the Carpenters song You. I looked this one up on YouTube when I finally got home today and the music is so different than how I remember but the words are so beautiful.

Have you ever had a secular song stick to you but it’s like a song of worship to the Lord? “You” does that to me. I was getting ready for book club meeting and I nearly cried ! Ponder these beautiful words – I woke up to this song. You are the one that makes me happy when everything else turns to gray. Yours is the voice that wakes me morning and sends me out into the day. You are the crowd that sits quiet listening to me and all the mad sense that I make. You are one of the few things worth remembering. And sense it’s all true how could anyone mean more to me, than you. Sorry if sometimes I looks past you, there’s nothing beyond your eyes. Inside my head wheels are turning and sometimes I’m not so wise. You are my heart and my soul my inspiration just like the old love song goes. You are one of the few things worth remembering. And since it’s all true how could anyone mean more to me, than you. You lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

As I sit here typing this, tears are streaming down my face. Isn’t it just like God to be our very heart and our very soul, our very inspiration? I’m still trying to figure out why all this came on all the sudden. Last night I was reading some social media posts. God has given me discernment when I read posts. I can pick up on desperation, hopelessness and depression. It makes me just want to reach through the screen and give them a big hug and say it’s going to be okay. Keep holding on, keep holding on. This old friend from college came across as utterly down last night. I told him to saturate his mind with the Word of God and surround yourself with praying family and friends. We need friends who will stand in the gap when we are weary. This person lives in Florida and I have no clue the details of the situation. However, God knows and God is right there with this guy.

The enemy whispers lies to us all day everyday. You know the drill: You’re not good enough, God can’t use you, You will never measure up! Etc… baloney! I love love love the example Jesus set for us when he was tempted in the wilderness. Everythime the devil came up with his twisted lies, Jesus responded with what Gods Word says. It is vital and I do mean VITAL in all caps. Know the Word of God and use it! Especially in this time where lie, deception and half truths abound everywhere. If you know what the Bible says, you have a come back every single time. “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭(NKJV‬‬)

Dig into Gods Word everyday and pray without ceasing. John‬ ‭8‬:‭32‬ says, ‭ “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (NLT‬‬) Another verse is Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬,‭ “Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” (NLT‬‬) The Bible is FULL of scriptures from cover to cover that will equip you for any situation., “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬ (NKJV). That’s POWERFUL right there and we need it daily!

As I read my old friends post, I understood. Life is a battle field. I don’t understand why it’s more difficult for sone but ultimately God has a perfect plan. When we surrender to Jesus Lordship over our lives we can walk in the victory He gives. We don’t need to understand but we do need to trust Him and keep holding on. Never give up! Never throw in the towel! Keep on keeping on. When you experience the comfort of walking with Jesus, be willing to pour that comfort into others. Be an encouragement. The world needs Jesus!

If you liked this blog post please subscribe. 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
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What do you reflect?

February 3, 20231 Comment

Seeing the sky reflected on water is one of the most captivating sights to me. One of my favorite things to see is the moons reflection off the ocean. It’s the very simple things in life that I find compelling and nature always speaks of the things of God.

Just like physical things are reflected in a mirror, shiny surface or water: what’s in our heart is reflected by our attitudes and actions. Proverbs 27:19 says, “As a face is reflected in water, so the heart reflects the real person.” (‭NLT‬)

Being hearing and visually limited, I often find myself thinking of deep things. When I am out in public, what am I reflecting? Do I reflect my Savior? Can people tell I am a Christian by my responses to situations? Am I reflecting love, kindness, gentleness and self control, just to name a few. Don’t get me wrong, I am far from perfect. I just tend to think about these types of things.

Human nature is so fascinating. I often wonder what makes people tick. We all deal with the desires of the flesh and struggle with responding in ways contrary to the flesh. Alone we can’t make these better choices. However the Holy Spirit is always willing to guide us forth in victory when we surrender our desires and seek to reflect Jesus. It’s a daily challenge we all face. We will fall short but Jesus is always willing to strengthen us to rise up again to reflect all He is.

Let me encourage you this weekend to be a reflection of Jesus! The world desperately needs to see God in us. If you liked this blog post please subscribe. 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.

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A 25th Birthday Tribute to our Joshua

January 28, 20231 Comment

January 25, 1998
Super Bowl Sunday
your “due date”
But your arrival came late.

Such a handsome baby boy
With a unique disposition,
Raising you to serve Jesus
Has always been our mission.

Your kindness, strength, courage
refreshing.
Your strong will and persistence
Help with life’s testing.

Some life trials
I wish you’d been spared
But it’s in the refiners fire
That we are prepared.

Jesus daily pursues you
His guidance never ending.
His Intercession , his love
for you, never bending.

As life continues
Temptations arise
When you’re facing a crossroad
Make sure you choose wise.

You are a treasure
A true gift from above
From our front row seats, watching
We send birthday love!

Happy 25 birthday Joshua!
In all that you do
Keep looking to Jesus
Keep being unique, keep being YOU!

Love Mom and Dad
January 2023

Refining & forgiveness

January 26, 2023Leave a Comment

Several days ago I published a blog titled “Thrown under the bus?” I wrote on life applications from the life of Joseph in Genesis chapters 37, 39-48. There are a couple more things I want to touch on before moving beyond this incredible character in the Old Testament.

It’s amazing to see God at work in the lives of people. Through the successes, failures, triumphs and trials: it takes the Holy Spirits guidance to see Gods hand at work through it all.

When Joseph was younger he had a dream about his brothers bowing before him. Genesis‬ ‭37‬:‭8 says, “His brothers responded, “So you think you will be our king, do you? Do you actually think you will reign over us?” And they hated him all the more because of his dreams and the way he talked about them.” (NLT‬‬)

I may be wrong but I pick up on some immaturity in these earlier accounts of Joseph telling his brothers about his dreams. Once they sold him into slavery, all the many hardships, injustice and trials shaped his character. You see that God was with him during each trial and allowed him to succeed.

Years later when his brothers had to go to Egypt for food because the famine was so bad, his dream came true. At this time Joseph was second in command in Egypt and in charge of all the food. His brothers came before him to get food, not knowing he was their brother because he used an interpreter. Joseph could have gloated over them and reminded them of his earlier dream but he did not. However he did test them by asking questions about their family, if their father was alive, and if they had any other brothers. In this way he could see if they had changed.

When his brothers came back to Egypt a second time for food, he ended up telling them who he was. This is such a beautiful story of forgiveness. Joseph has seen the hand of God in his journey of grief. God has developed his character and he was able to freely forgive his brothers for all they did to him. Genesis‬ ‭45‬:‭5 says, “But don’t be upset, and don’t be angry with yourselves for selling me to this place. It was God who sent me here ahead of you to preserve your lives.” (NLT‬‬)

We all could learn something from Joseph’s life of example. Don’t let bitterness take hold in your heart. Forgive those who have hurt you and cause trouble. Unforgiveness and bitterness are like cancer. They eat away at you and spill over into every part of your life. Even if the person who wronged you isn’t sorry, you can still forgive them for your own sake. Forgiveness will set you free and enable your heart to heal. God forgives us and He expects us to forgive each other. I know it’s hard. One sure way to make it a bit easier is to pray for the person who wronged you. It’s hard to stay angry at someone you pray for. Give the situation to God and ask Him to work it out. Ask Him to help you love instead of hold grudges. He will set you free.

Another thing I really admire about Joseph is his ability to see God at work in his trials. He saw God preparing him. Sometimes we don’t have a clue what God is up to. Ok…most of the time! However when you have a relationship with God, you study His Word and who He is, you can glimpse Him working behind the scenes. 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)

In todays culture so many people are easily offended. If you want a true sense of humanity just get on a social media platform and read what people have to say. It is enlightening in the saddest way. God did not intend for people to be this way. God doesn’t want us to be judgemental and mean to each other. He wants us to love! Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭14‬ tells us, “For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” ‭(NLT‬‬)

You might ask, “Who is my neighbor? Your neighbor is anyone you encounter. You might be thinking I’m a joke! I’m not! I’m just sharing what God’s Word says. He wants us to have a relationship with Him. He desires for us to live in love and forgiveness. Humanly this is impossible but all things are possible with God! (Matthew 19:26)