#peoplematter – Page 4 – 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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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

Facebook suspension 😳Really?

August 27, 20226 Comments

The saying goes, “There’s a first time for everything.” That doesn’t mean I wasn’t shocked when I received an e mail today telling me my Facebook was being suspended for violation of its standards. Really Facebook? What might I ask do you dislike about my posts? I share uplifting, positive, inspiring blogs and posts to encourage people. I looked at the so called FB standards. To my knowledge I have not violated anything. Do I promote violence? NO! Do I promote hate speech? NO! Do I promote profanity? NO? Geez… I don’t even gossip on there! On the contrary I speak life and encouragement This is quite perplexing.

The thing that bothers me is that my blogs on WordPress are shared through social media. Many of my followers see my posts through Facebook. I started blogging as a continuation of my story. Life doesn’t stop after publishing my autobiography., “Rooted by the Water“. (You can find it on Amazon) In a sense, it’s actually just the beginning. God continues to teach me so much about His grace and strength through my brokenness. It’s amazing to me when I see posts from other people going through hard times and depression, that I’m given an opportunity to speak life and love into their lives. It’s a privilege to pray for their needs. Just recently someone I met online years ago thanked me for always encouraging others. This past week I had the most views on my blog than I’ve ever had before. What did I write on this last week? I wrote on the 2 year anniversary of my brothers ongoing miracle after having a bone marrow transplant in 2020. I’m honored to be part of his miracle by being his donor.

I know social media gets a bad rap. I get it really, but it allows me to connect with people in ways I don’t ordinarily have. Being hearing impaired and legally blind I am limited in interacting with others. Social media is an opportunity to connect with others and share the love of Jesus.

I have disputed their decision. We will see what happens . But in the meantime they have silenced me. However, I will continue to write and continue to encourage people to not give up. I will Shine on! If you enjoy my blogs help me keep spreading the love of Jesus and the hope He give by sharing my blog with others.
Thank you for journeying with me. God bless 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.

Renew me!

July 15, 2022Leave a Comment

This morning I woke up at 5. As I was trying to go back to sleep I asked the Lord to speak to me. I tossed for an hour then got up. One of the ways God speaks to me is through His Word, The Bible. Being up early I would have time for an extra long quiet time with the Lord. Currently I’m doing a reading plan on You Version reading the minor prophets. Once I finished todays reading, I went to Ephesians to read up on the armor of God. As I looked over the verses I saw Ephesians‬ ‭4:23‬ ‭NLT‬‬ and stopped. This verse says, “Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.” I thought to myself, “Okay Lord, you have my attention.”

Life happens! It’s to be expected. Yes it is very frustrating but how do we deal with it? That’s exactly why I was reading up on the armor of God but since the Holy Spirit pointed out this verse in chapter 4. I will pause and seek a fresh mind renewal. Oh Lord renew my mind and my attitudes!

Yesterday my husband Ron fully intended on spending the whole day painting the bonus room. Our son wants to make it his suite which is fine with us. It’s been the “Man cave” for years. Ron’s plan got pushed aside as I was checking e mail yesterday morning. There was a very suspicious e mail that had him on the phone with the. Bank then we finally went in person. The e mail was an attempt at fraud. Why do people do these things? Fraud, scams and schemes abound. I recently got an e mail from a fake “Ron Howard” asking if I had a script ready for him. Backstory, this same scammer contacted me five months ago. He used the famous actors name and picture. He said he was interested in my story and wanted to see a script. We e mailed back and forth. It seemed legit but I wanted a professionals opinion. My sister in laws brother is a producer in the industry. She reached out to him with some questions for me. He said the real Ron Howard would never contact me that way. To make a long story short, I sent the imposter an email telling him I had talked to a professional in the industry. I told him I might be deaf and legally blind but I won’t be easily scammed. I thanked him for a lesson well learned and though I’d never hear from him again. He waited five months and used a different e mail to look more professional. People are desperate. There was another e mail this morning about a whole different topic, my point is people want to take advantage of you at every turn. So this morning as I was searching for scripture on the Armor of God, God first pointed out Ephesians 4:23 about the Holy Spirit renewing my thoughts and attitudes. I don’t know about you but I sure do need a fresh Holy Spirit mind washing with a renewed attitude as well. People fail you and take advantage of you but God is faithful. Lord give us wisdom to see through the enemies tactics and a heart always eager to praise you as you fight our battles for us. Have a blessed day!

If you happen to come across this blog post for the first time. I encourage you to read 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.

Three life seasons in a weekend

June 18, 2022Leave a Comment

This weekend is packed full with different life celebrations. A memorial / celebration of life for a precious friend who recently passed away. A celebration of marriage for a young couple embarking on their married journey. Last but not least, celebration of Fathers Day. Celebrating my husband Ron and remembering my awesome Dad who is no longer with us.

Life comes at us all the time. We never know what lurks around the next corner but we embrace Jesus who holds us every minute of every day. He enables us to find the good in hard seasons like when we lose a loved one. He enabled us to speak life into other new life seasons and cherish and appreciate each stage.

The Memorial service

Recently a precious lady passed away unexpectedly. It seems surreal like it just can’t be true. When we got the news of complications after her surgery we all raised our voices in faith filled prayers before God to bring before God healing. He brought her healing in Heaven. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and precious friend. One thing that stood out to me in her beautiful memorial service was, the Pastor said she preached her own funeral by the way she lived her life. The words spoken weren’t just empty words. They were true. She will never know the impact of her sweet spirit, love, encouragement, kindness and faith. May God comfort her family as they struggle with her loss.

The wedding

Today we got to witness a sweet couples wedding. We’ve known the bride since she was born. Such a beautiful young lady inside and out. We were happy to be a part of their celebration as they begin their married journey together.

I remember our wedding day. It was over 28 years ago. Being in love and ready to start life together, is like planting roots. Living out the promises you make to one another before God, day after day, takes commitment. It takes three: the bride, the groom and the Lord. A cord of three is not easily broken. We wish this sweet couple a lifetime of happiness.

Fathers Day

We have been celebrating Ron all weekend. Friday night our son Joshua wanted to have dinner together, then today we all attended the wedding together. Tomorrow Joshua will join us for church then a lunch for Ron.

It will be a bittersweet day as it will be the second Fathers Day without my Dad. I was a Daddy’s girl and I sure do miss our talks. Dad was a great listener. He would let me talk and give me words of wisdom and advice. I know he’s celebrating Father’s Day with our Abba Father. There is nothing like the love of a Father for his children.

Experiencing various parts of life’s journey over this weekend makes me reflect on the goodness of God. In all the seasons of life He is faithful and so so good!

Cherish a relationship with God and if you don’t have one, I urge you to get to know Jesus. It’s the best decision you will ever make. He is always there loving you and waiting for you to open the door of your heart to Him. He will see you through each season of life. The happy times, the difficult times, the joys and struggles, He is there every step of the way. Thank you Jesus!

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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Thankfulness

May 30, 20221 Comment

As I sit on the back porch this Memorial Day morning I’m thankful. I’m thankful for the freedom to sit here with my dog Joy and listen to the birds singing. I’m thankful for the brave men and women who serve our country and for those who gave it all for our freedom. I’m thankful for Jesus who renews our hope each day.

Yesterday at church I was reminded to offer up sacrifices of praise to God, even in the waiting and frustrations of life. Lord let me always be mindful to PRAISE YOU anyway!

Lately I have felt so weighed down by life, the world, issues with my “state of the art” cochlear implant processor. As the list of concerns goes on, I can find myself overwhelmed. But yesterday at church as I listened with tears rolling down my face, I was reminded to be thankful in the waiting period even though it seems I’m always in a waiting period. All I can do is pray, praise and trust God to move. Our country, our world, society at large is so broken because it rejects Jesus. I can’t do anything about it but pray and allow God to use me in whatever way he desires to bring about healing in our world. Let’s pause today and be thankful. Let’s pray continually and give thanks because our God is faithful.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Finding beauty in simplicity

March 22, 2022Leave a Comment

Our present society and culture have become so complex, it seems people miss the true beauty of living in the moment. Everything has become so fast paced and hectic. Let me challenge you to slow down, take a deep breath and consider what’s really important.

Years ago before texting existed, we used to pass little notes in class. Sometimes we would add KISS for “keep it simple sweetie”. Those simple days are long gone. Life has been replaced by complexity and greed on every side. Technology, constant bombardment with digital images, crime and violence, me-ism, political correctness and the list goes on and on. It’s truly sad the state our world is in.

As a hearing and visually impaired woman I can honestly say I’m thankful I miss some of the distractions. I’m not as tempted for the constant need of buying more simply because I don’t know what’s out there. I don’t watch tv so I’m not constantly bombarded by new products and fashion. Im drawn to simpler things, truly finding joy and beauty in simplicity. I know that’s one of the positives of living with my hearing and visual impairments.

People say they’re busy. You are as busy as you want to be. It’s ok to say no and prioritize things in your life. Life is not about you or me for that matter. It’s learning to empty ourselves of all the crud and let God fill us and use us for His glory!

Can you imagine a world where people care more about others than themselves? Imagine a world where everyone truly matters, because in all honesty, they do! Imagine a world where people put faith in God over fear. You don’t have to be afraid of Covid or people with or without masks, vaccinated or not. 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us, “God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love and self discipline.”
James 1:22 tells us to be doers of the Word. Don’t just read the Word or hear the Word…. DO WHAT IT SAYS!

Let’s get back to simplicity. Smile, encourage and love each other. Embrace God! God created us because He wants to have a relationship with us. Jesus died on the cross for our sins and rose again on the third day. He has victory over everything!

Let’s get back to basics. Embrace Jesus and find joy in walking with Him. Enjoy His creation and the people you encounter daily. Let’s change the world one simple kind moment at a time.

Check out my autobiography “Rooted by the Water” available online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books a Million, Target, Walmart and Park Road Books. My story of learning to live triumphantly despite disabilities, through Gods strength and lessons He has taught me along the way. Be inspired!