#pray – 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

In the “trenches”

July 9, 2026Leave a Comment

This blog may take a bit of time to put together. A friend and his wife who are missionaries in Italy, actually sent me the above picture recently and it resonated with me deeply. I decided to follow “Salt & Light” because inspiring messages are always welcome.

I am not one to complain or showcase my struggles but there comes a time when sharing, although uncomfortable, most likely encourages others also in the “trenches” of life. In all honestly, in my 57 years of life, there has always been some struggle. God has always enabled me to bounce back. If you have ever read my memoir Rooted by the Water many of the chapters begin with the metaphor of water stirring, churning, waves forming then the BIG one. It seems God allows the build up of life issues, as not to totally overwhelm. I told my husband Ron recently, I feel like one of those punching toys, where you hit it, it rears back then bounces back up. I told him I feel like those punches come from all sides in life. So when my friend Jack sent me the above I totally got it. I’m often like Elijah saying “Lord, I’ve had enough! I’m done!” But it keeps coming.

Let’s see if I can briefly summarize the “trenches”: communication lapse with just about everyone…. I don’t hear it all and I dont’ see it all either. Whether I’m with hearing people or deaf people I miss something. Hearing people expect me to “get it”… well I don’t always and it’s not my fault. Deaf friends will repeat and help and I so appreciate that. Then there is the vision limitation…. Oh my goodness. “Lord why in the world do I have to deal with this?” I have not been to the eye doctor in years. At last check my vision was 20/400 (what I see at 20 feet, if you have good vision, you can see it from 400 feet. Let that sink in). There is the church issue. I miss my church. We stopped going so my husband could take our son to work. He has to be at work at the exact same time of the interpreted service. Other churches we visit don’t have sign language interpreters. Sometimes notes are sent and sometimes not. There are things with friends too: friends come and friends go, people go through different seasons in life and you feel left behind. It’s no ones fault, it’s just life.

This past Spring I began to try marketing my memoir again. A professor came across my book when looking for books on resilience. He really liked it and reached out, wondering why I have a good rating but not many reviews. I told the Lord, “You enabled me to write this story, the journey you have me on, but I have no clue on the visibility end or the marketing end. You created me to encourage and inspire for a reason. It’s not meant to sit buried online.” So, I hired a “Book Strategist”. I throughly checked the references she gave and everyone spoke highly of her. She seems very knowledgeable and kind, but we’ve hit a “hiccup”. I purchased Tier 3 which would greatly help with visibility. She is now insisting I need a professionally designed website (by her team) in order to fulfill what I pad for. This is not part of our agreement. My son Joshua created a wonderful website with all the features she said my first one lacked. We now need to add my social media links and it should be pretty much finished. She says it’s not enough for a long term career. This is not a career, but more a ministry. She and others think I will write more books. While I would love that and I’m full of ideas, alas… my vision is a real issue.

Now here comes the technology issue. Two days ago I was sent a some forms to fill out. I wanted to do it digitally because it looks more professional. I spent more than four hours trying to fill out these simple forms. More than FOUR HOURS to no avail! It would not work for some reason. The font went back and forth between small and large. The large font wouldn’t fit the line due to being cut off every single time. . It was the most absurd experience. Even Ron tried and it didn’t work for him either. He finally said, just give up. I said, “If I gave up in life I would not be standing here right now.” I finally caved, printed and filled the forms out by hand. My handwriting is not pretty. I have to use a video magnifier to be able to see what I’m writing. I carefully filled it out and Ron took it to get it uploaded for me to send off as an attachment. Guess what? The attachment wouldn’t come through! Seriously?!?! Ron caught me talking to myself and he asked, “What did youn say?” I replied, “I said I can’t do this.” And wow, I never say that! Ron went back to ask what the issue might be and he tried again. It still wouldn’t come through. They finally sent it to our son and he sent it off for me.

It seems like life is a joke at times. The struggle comes from every single side. I’m like “Hello God, I could really use some help down here”. Everyone wants something. Unsolicited advertisements come in all the time and I’m learning to trust no one. I’m the kind of person that aims to be kind and appreciative to all, but there is a fine line when it’s too much. I respond to many of the emails and many comment on how kind and pleasant I am. I try to reflect Jesus. “But Lord, I’m not meant for all these marketing pitches.”

Three days ago I was looking through Bible devotions on the Bible App. There are many plans to choose from on many topics. I found one of “EquipHer’ It talks about the “trenches” in life and how God does not waste these times. Yesterday’s lesson talked about when the trials are a long season. One of the quotes is : Faith is the glue that holds your journey together, even when everything feels fragmented. – Christa Crawford. Faith does not cancel difficulty or deny your exhaustion, it gives you strength and courage to walk through it. (Bible App reading plan. EquipHer Devotional series Volume 27, Day 3)

This devotion has been a breath of fresh air for a weary soul. Yes, I was already aware of these truths, but reminders are so helpful. Even the people closest to me don’t realize the struggles, I don’t complain. Ron is probably the only one that sees it. (Most of it) But God sees it all! He knows and he equips. This season is some sort of training for what lies ahead. All I can do is “be still and know He is God”, take some deep breaths, dig my heels in and steady myself with the deep roots of faith that have gone deep over many years of struggle. God’s got this!

Today I’m heading out for a refreshing time with good friends. Lunch, time by the pool and laughter is just what I need. Thankful for this “break” in life. If you too are struggling and can’t seem to catch a break, know that God doesn’t waste these “life trenches” He is training you because He knows you will rise up to declare His glory. Hang in there. I’m hanging with you!!🙏🤟🏼

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Times of refreshing

June 28, 2026Leave a Comment

It’s officially summer here in upstate South Carolina and it’s already been hot. This year our grass has looked better than it ever has but, yes there is a but, with the heat and little rain it’s starting to turn brown. The last three days we have had short periods of rain and it has been so refreshing. It not only cools things off a bit, but provides much needed hydration. I love the short periods of rain.

Today I not only got the short rainfall but also a much needed spiritual rain. You might wonder what I mean. Let me explain life a bit. While there are many solid Christian churches around here, I only know of one with sign language interpreters for the hearing impaired. One!! Today I got to go “home” to that one and it was refreshing to my soul. My husband and I got married in that church 32 years ago. It will always be “home” to me. Life has us in a different season right now where we can’t make it to the service that is interpreted but today I went with a friend. Oh the joy of worshipping among friends that are like family. The joy of understanding the message in a way that I could gleam from.

While I greatly appreciate notes from Pastors of churches we have gone to, it’s not the same as understanding. Being a part of worship, where I can actually participate is so refreshing. I love to worship the Lord and know many worship songs, both old and new. Being both hearing and visually impaired, I can’t see lyrics on a screen even if I’m on the first row. So worship through sign language is a huge blessing. My friend told me to go again with her sometime and my husband encouraged me to go as well. He can hear and see so he doesn’t have the comprehension issues.

For anyone in ministry, I highly encourage you to provide services for the hearing impaired where they can fully participate in the service, receiving of the Word of God and worship. Because of language barriers many deaf people do not know Jesus. Many churches send teams for mission work when there might be mission work right under your roof. Just saying. While I always appreciate any kindness, any notes or assistance, it honestly is truly refreshing to fully be able to participate. I’m so thankful for this church and the hearing impaired family there. The interpreters are like family. Such an amazing blessing to all who enters their doors or watch online. You can check them out at http://www.centralnc.org

I pray you too have times of refreshing coming your way. The daily grind of life can wear us down, but time in prayer, God’s Word and worship brings rest to our hearts and makes the burdens lighter. Have a blessed week.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

How is your connection?

June 26, 2026Leave a Comment

There is something to be said about having a strong connection. For example, a strong WiFi connection is needed when you’re doing work online. Your cell phone company can have weakened service / connections at times and that causes issues with staying in touch. The same is true about our prayer life. Our connection to God through prayer is vital in safe guarding us from spiritual attacks. If the enemy can cause distractions from us seeking the Lord in prayer and time in the Bible, we will begin to weaken spiritually.

Have you ever noticed these truths in your own life? I certainly have. As a matter of fact, I see such a direct connection between how I respond to life issues by how I start my day. When I begin my day in prayer, giving all my anxieties and cares to the Lord and giving thanks for His new mercies that come each day, my response to others is seasoned with grace. Mediating on God’s Word opens my eyes to His truth and clear direction in decision making. It’s a rare day when I don’t start the day in prayer and the Word. I will tell you when I do miss this vital time in the mornings with the Lord, my day suffers in some way. It’s just a fact of life I have discovered. If you want a strong and fruitful relationship with God then guard your time with Him. Hebrews‬ ‭2‬:‭1 says, “Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. (ESV‬‬)

In Matthews 26;41 Jesus teaches His disciples to pray so they do not fall into temptation. “Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.””Matthew‬ ‭26‬:‭41‬ ‭(ESV‬‬) Prayer isn’t just for growth, it’s also to sustain our spiritual strength. Temptations abound in this world. The enemy is always trying to find a breach in our connection. In order to remain strong you must remain connected to the Lord and resist the desires of the flesh.

For me personally I don’t struggle much with fleshly desires. My struggle is in the mind. The mind can be a battlefield. I have to take anxious thoughts captive daily and make them obedient to Christ. I can’t control tomorrow. God gives me my “manna” for today. Meaning, He gives me what I need for this day and I have to trust Him with it. There is power in prayer, obedience and surrender. I’m learning daily this is the best way for me to approach each day.

May I encourage you to keep your connection strong by prioritizing time spent with God in prayer and meditating on His Word. He is faithful and trust worthy. You will see a direct positive effect on your life as you invest in your relationship with God. Be encouraged.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

The Love of a Father

June 21, 2026Leave a Comment

I want to wish all the Father’s out there a very Happy Father’s Day. My brother and I were blessed to have an amazing Dad. He made it easy for me to have a trusting relationship with my Heavenly Father because he was an amazing, compassionate support to us here on earth.

This morning I came across this scripture. “As a father pities his children, So the Lord pities those who fear Him.” Psalms‬ ‭103‬:‭13‬ ‭(NKJV‬) This reads so clearly to me that just like my amazing earthly Dad was compassionate and loved us deeply, God our Heavenly Father does so too and on such a higher level than we could ever imagine.

We lost our Dad in March 2021 and I sure do miss him. He was the best listener ever and always offered sound advice when I sought it. While I can’t talk to him now, I do talk to my Heavenly Father daily. He is the source of my strength. My Dad lived his life for the Lord, setting an example we follow to this day.. I appreciate he allowed me to learn from experience. I’m sure watching me struggle in juggling hearing and visual limitations, stretched him. He and Mom never limited me by saying “You can’t do that”, rather they cheered on my attempts and success. As I thought on it this morning, God does the same and again, on such a higher level.

This morning as I got ready for church my mind went ‘running” in various directions and I began to be anxious. Immediately I was reminded of Philippians 4:6-7. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭(NKJV‬‬ emphasis mine) It became clear to me I needed to release these thoughts to God, my Heavenly Father. I began to thank Him that He is sovereign and in complete control. I began to pray for His perfect Will to be done in all areas. He is faithful always. As I reflected on the first verse I shared (Psalm 103) it reminded me of how deeply God cares and understands. He sees the BIG pictures and we have to trust Him with the future.

I’m beyond thankful God gave me God fearing parents. They have instilled in me a legacy of faith that is so deep and rich. When I’m struggling or having anxious thoughts I can dig deep into my faith in God and relationship I have with Him, knowing His promises stand. He is faithful , holy, compassionate and true. My strong tower and refuge. What an incredible Heavenly Father we have.

I plan to write on our “prayer life” in a dew days. Stay tuned~

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Seeking more than a Miracle~

June 16, 2026June 16, 2026Leave a Comment

I have been doing a little devotion on this topic. I enjoy reading different devotionals along with my online Bible. (I have many physical Bibles in different translations but can no longer see well enough to read them.) It’s interesting to see peoples views on the Bible, but of course the only one that matters is how the Holy Spirit guides me in scriptures and helps me apply it to my life.

As a person living with vision and hearing disabilities, I’ve always been drawn to the miracles Jesus performed in the Bible. (He still performs them today as well.). While I have experienced healing within my heart in dealing with my limitations, I have not “yet” experienced physical healing, although I have been prayed over for years. I can just assume it’s not God’s perfect time just yet. I have learned to surrender my desires and pray like Jesus, “not my will but yours be done.” I like how the Gospel of Mark shares this verse, although it is in orther Gospels in the Bible as well. Mark‬ ‭14‬:‭36‬ says, “And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.”” (NKJV‬‬) I know this to be true and so I cling to it. I don’t understand the suffering in this world, but I know God is completely sovereign and is able to do anything He wishes. I trust He sees the big picture and is taking care of me, placing me where He desires for His kingdom work.

I came across the following verse this morning. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.”Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬ ‭(NKJV‬‬) Every day, I must submit to God. I must seek Jesus in everything I do. It must be way way more than seeking a miracle. It must always be about seeking His presence and guidance.

Can I be completely transparent here? A few weeks ago a street evangelist I met years ago sent me his YouTube channel. Joel is a humble amazing Bible teacher. He was healed from stage 4 cancer and sees many many miracles. I messaged him and asked him if he would minister to a friend who has cancer. He said he would but asked me to share a video of him teaching on the topic. (Preparation for the conversation) I watched the video myself, reading the transcript (zoomed large so I could see it) since I can’t hear well. It is am amazing insightful Bible teaching. I will ask if I can share it. There were three things we need to examine our hearts for. Do we have any un-forgiveness? Do we have any bitterness? Do we have any envy? These are things that can hinder receiving healing and we must confess them to the Lord. I thought to myself, I do not harbor any un-forgiveness as I am a very merciful person. I also don’t have any bitterness that I am aware of. But envy….Lord I have envy and it troubles me. Before you judge, let me explain. I have a servants heart and I’d love to be able to just get in the car and bless someone, but I can’t see well enough to drive. Every place I go in life must be first filtered through someone else’s willingness to take me. That is something I “had” to come to terms with a long long time ago. Just because I want to do something does not mean someone else will be willing to take me and pick me up and even help me understand while I’m serving It’s a real struggle and I realize as I think of this that perhaps I envy those who can just make decisions and do them without someone having to help. I’d love to be able to work. Yes you read that right. The vast majority of jobs require ability to hear and see. The combination of my disabilities is very hindering. (Not to mention it requires getting there and home.) As I reflected on this video, ever since watching, it honestly sadden me. I have prayed, “Lord I am human. Yes I envy others ability to have independence, be able to comprehend speech well and be able to see. 20/400 vision with hearing difficulties is no joke. It’s tough. And of course there are those who notice, “You’re not hearing well today”. Yes, unfortunately but what can I do about it? My mantle in this life is to lean on Jesus and seek His presence to enable me to function for His glory. You might wonder the definition of mantle. Mantle means, accepting a significant calling, profound responsibility, or specific life mission. (Google definition) This mantle truly requires me to lean heavily on the Holy Spirit, otherwise I’d be long gone by now. So you see, for me it goes way beyond seeking a miracle, but actually living in the miracle worker’s (Jesus) presence.

Do I still desire healing? Oh yes! (And I pray for many people who also need healing.) I’m trusting God with His best. He has us where we are for a reason. He doesn’t waste any opportunities to be glorified. “Here I am Lord” use me, my story, my limitations, the fact that You work so powerfully in our weaknesses. Be glorified today Lord”

P.S. I reached out to Joel for permission to share his video. I will add the link below. It is very good. I recommend subscribing to his YouTube channel. It will bless you.

https://youtu.be/h6tFHXHP16Y?si=wAtLDK30_Df_0Hq8
http://www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Peace rising

June 2, 20262 Comments

I’m not sure where this bog is going. Just being honest. However as I was praying yesterday morning on my back porch, I noticed the early morning sun shining on this solitary peace lily bloom standing tall in the sun. This thought resonated with me that we too can rise up in peace in the SON (Jesus). You see, last winter this beautiful peace lily almost died. I had forgotten to water it for an extended period of time. When I shared with my Mom about how it looked like it was dying, she recommended pruning it way back so it could possibly regrow. That’s what I did. It’s a marvel how nature bounces back, with pruning, water and sunlight.

We are just like that in life. We can pour into others so much, we neglect to take care of self. As I was reading the Bible this morning, I read the first two verses of Psalms 139. That’s one of my favorite chapters in the Bible. David is just so real and honest about life and bringing it to God. The first two verses say: “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.” Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) I find it comforting to know that God sees me completely. There is absolutely nothing hidden from Him. He sees my weariness underneath the “I’m okay”. He knows the deep longing, to hear and see well. He knows the deep longing in my heart for my son and husband. We have a unique family. We all have broken pieces whether it’s legal blindness , hearing loss and issues from a closed head injury. We deal with a lot and we do it together. He knows how we pour into others anyway. People don’t understand the cost to me, but God does: the striving to understand, the striving to see, read, study, prepare. It can be tiring. Life is stressful enough with just me, myself and I. I don’t need added un-necessary stress. So I’m praying for direction. Should I cut something free that is weighing me down? We can all ask these questions. God sees us completely already and knows the plans He has for us. Sometimes in life to get from Point A to Point B, it’s a “straight shot”, other times it’s a “winding road” going up and down hills. Regardless, God knows the best way to proceed and I’m willing to be obedient to what He shows me. Whether it is to write more books (three ideas came to mind recently) to continue or stop blogging, or continue or stop volunteering. Perhaps it’s to help a neighbor with dementia. She came by early last night with a bag full of her things, carrying her toothbrush. It’s hurts my heart to see the struggles but we listened and prayed with her as a family. She prayed for my son three times in a row, not remembering she had just prayed. I’m thankful she has retained the gift of prayer. Her husband tracked her and she got home safely and was smiling as she left. You never know what life will throw. God has the answers and I’m waiting on His direction.

This morning I also came across scripture in Matthew 11. Verse 28 spoke to my heart. It says: “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) Perhaps you too are weary and are seeking rest for your heart. I will never understand God’s ways for they are so much higher than our own ways. You can find this in Isaiah 55:8-9, ‘My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.”
‭‭Isaiah 55; 8-9 (NLT) So let’s just lay it down right there and trust our Heavenly Father who sees us so completely, who is familiar with all our ways, let’s lay it down for Him and trust Him for direction. In true Shannon fashion, a worship song just popped in my mind. “ I lay me down Lord, here at Your feet, all I have Lord is Yours. I lay me down Lord, my heart is Yours to keep. All of You is all I need.” I believe this is a Central Collective song but I don’t know the name and might possibly have the words wrong, but that’s how it’s playing in my heart right now.

Let’s cease the striving and just be Still and Know that He is God. (Psalms 46:10)
http://www.shannonkhinson.com

Trusting God in uncertain times.

May 14, 2026May 14, 2026Leave a Comment

I wore these on my wrist all through 2020 The orange bracelet said Psalms 91 on the other side. The “miracles happen” bracelet I wore out.

Last night I spoke at the homeless shelter on “trusting God in uncertain times”. This is for everyone walking through times of uncertainty. You know those times when changes can and do occur in an instant. When life’s storms seem to be a whirlwind, an important question comes up, Who or what can we really trust? I can share from experience itself but most importantly from the Bible that God Himself is the best and most reliable source we can trust.

From my personal perspective, nothing speaks of uncertain times like the year 2020. It wasn’t just the COVID-19 pandemic! Oh no…. It was much more. I can try to break it down as briefly as possible. Let’s see….. mid March 2020 COVID-19 broke out. I remember it well because I was on a little trip with my parents at Hilton Head, SC. The oddest thing was that toilet paper seemed to disappear from stores! Seriously? That was weird! In my personal opinion, it was a glorified cold or flu. Why was toilet paper scarce? Were people using that to blow their nose? Sorry, I had to throw some humor into this trying time That was March. Mid April 2020 my older brother was diagnosed with acute leukemia. Saying the family was shocked is an understatement. My brother pretty quickly started chemotherapy. Because of Covid-19 no one could visit him in the hospital in Charlotte. He had a window in his hospital room so “visits” were from the parking lot below. His family, church and friends are incredible. Hold this story briefly for another major hit that came a few weeks later…..

Around May 4, 2020 (I recall the time but not exact date) A friend of our son Joshua had spent the night at our house. A group of friends were going on a day trip a couple of hours away to hike the highest waterfall East of the Rockies. My husband Ron and I went about our day, but when the guys didn’t return home, I began to worry. They were several hours late and we had not heard from them. I was praying and texting to try to find out information. Ron was making calls. Since the group was in the mountains cell service was sketchy. We got in touch with another parent and they heard someone was missing. It was the scariest experience. The group made it home the next day, minus one friend. (The one who had spent the night before the trip.). The details began to unfold. The group had taken off their shoes at the bottom of the waterfall and started hiking their way up. At one point, they stopped due to safety but two brothers continued the climb. The oldest slipped and fell down the waterfall. No group of friends should endure this type of tragedy but it is what happened. Some of the group went down for help, the others stayed in place. Search and rescue found the missing friend’s body in a cave under the waterfalls. This was early May 2020. Joshua and one of his friends needed to clear their mind after this experience and stayed in Florida with a friends dad for a couple of months.

Meanwhile, back in Charlotte, it became clear that my brother needed a bone marrow transplant The hospital in Charlotte didn’t have that program at the time so he was admitted to Duke University hospital. I ended up being a perfect match for his donor. Towards the end of August 2020, me, Ron and my parents went up to Duke for the harvesting procedure. My brother had been in the hospital there and his wife was staying up there with him. My dad was also battling cancer at the time. It was such a whirlwind of uncertainty. Dad died about 6 1/2 months after the transplant.

During this time, my brother and his family clung to Psalms 91. The promises in this chapter are like a “beacon of hope” during a dark storm. Psalms 91:1-2 says, “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” (ESV‬‬) This is an affirmation of trust in the eternal God in whom we can find a safe dwelling place. A safe place with extraordinary strength. I’m not talking about your own human strength, rather divine “beyond you” strength.

If you have never really taken Psalms 91 to heart, I challenge you to read it and make it personal. My mom taught me years ago to insert my name into the passage to make it personal. If I insert my name into Psalms 91:14-16 it would read like this: ““Because (Shannon) holds fast to me in love, I will deliver her, I will protect her, because she knows my name. When she calls to me, I will answer her; I will be with her in trouble; I will rescue her and honor her. With long life I will satisfy her and show her my salvation.”” (This is an example of how you can insert your name and pronouns into the ESV). It becomes personal.

May I challenge you to consider how God is your refuge, your guide in uncertain times, your strength and ever-present help in trouble. Consider these things and how this scripture can become a lifeline for you in your trials and storms. In doing so, you can find confidence in God to walk boldly in times of dark trouble. This reminds me of Psalms 23:4 that says, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (ESV‬‬)

Indeed God was with us in 2020 and continues to be with us today. My brother is a walking testimony that miracles still happen. Today he is cancer free and serving the Lord in his church and community. God is faithful. He takes us through the fiery trials but He guides us through them, refining us along the way so we can be a reflection of Jesus. Bottom line, God is more than trust worthy in the good and the bad. You can cling to His promises. I’ll end with one last scripture, 2 Corinthians 1:20, “For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.” (ESV‬‬)

Be blessed! Www.shannonkhinson.com

Tarry in the stillness

April 29, 2026Leave a Comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Bloom in hard places

April 23, 20262 Comments

My two Bible promise books under my Optelec video magnfier

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

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

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

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

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