#pressthrough – rootedbythewater.blog

What’s your “battle plan”?

August 26, 2026Leave a Comment

Cartoon found on a friend’s social media post.

I was recently scrolling through social media and saw the above picture and it really resonated with me. (There was no photo credit.) Prayer is never a back up plan or plan B in my life. Prayer is THE way I approach each day and many situations. The older I get the more I’m aware that I should never wait for a crisis to begin praying but just go ahead and cover every aspect of life, praying for God’s perfect Will. He sees the full picture, while I just get momentary glimpses. Prayer changes things, not because of any power I possess but because it’s my connection with the One True Living God who holds all power. Life happens and while we don’t know what lies ahead, God does. That said, my “battle plan” for moment by moment life situations is to pray. It can be the simplest call for help,”Lord I need clarity and direction on this” or it can be detailed. Often times I’m praying, “God help me to endure this test” or this social situation. I can’t stress enough how heavily I rely on God for the moment by moment things. As I type this, our elderly dog is barking loudly at a work crew outside. “Lord make her calm down please!”

During my devotion reading this morning, I read that prayer is like a light switch. It connects us to the power source. I seriously need to keep my “switch on” at all times, so it seems. I kid you not. Life and it’s odd timing can seem chaotic at time. For example, as I was finishing my quiet time this morning on the back porch, the work crew showed up and startled our son’s big dog. He accidentally knocked over my Nanny’s beautiful big Christmas cactus, busting the ceramic pot. I guess the devil was on “notice” and began his nasty tactics. I got another plant with a paster pot, dumped the plant and used the pot to repot Nanny’s special cactus. Afterwards I got ready for a friends lunch which was an answer to prayer just to escape the repair work going on around here that sets the dogs off.

I typed the above two days ago but of course life happened so I’m going to finish this blog today. I will also share another story that I have been praying over.I’m not getting into all the details but an opportunity came my way two months ago concerning my memoir Rooted by the water. While I’m not 100% sure if it’s real or a scam, I’ve prayed for clarity. After doing careful research, I smell a fish. Hmm…. We are having a lawyer look it over and will go from there. This morning as I was praying and praising, I said “Lord I praise You either way! I praise You in plenty, I praise You in less, I praise You in the good times and I praise You in the bad times. You alone are our source and future.” Why did I pray this? Because it’s the truth.If the door slams, it’s because God see something ahead we don’t see and is protecting us. He has something even better. So, I praise Him!!!

Let me tell you a few wonderful things. Today is my brother Forrest sixth bone marrow birthday. Six years ago today, God brought healing to his body and he is living proof that God answers prayers! On another note, recently a friend took her sweet dog to the vet because of swollen lymph nodes. They did a biopsy, we prayed and God answered, no cancer! Glory to God! On another note, a girl I went to school with daughter was diagnosed with a rare brain cancer. After enduring a rough radiation treatment schedule she went to the ER. The scans taken of her brain showed new lesions, or at least that’s the report that was given. When she saw her Specialist a couple of weeks later, the reports of the new lesions was wrong. Praise God! God has her in His hands.

Sure, not all prayers turn out favorably the way we want, but God is in control. We can trust God’s Word. 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) That’s God’s truth! We can stand on His Word and hold it fast as the solid truth! Another scripture to hold on to (and honestly, hold on to them ALL) 1 Peter 5:7, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”( NLT‬) Whatever is worrying you or causing anxiety, give it to God! Let Him work it out in His way on His timetable. He is trustworthy. While I was hoping this proposal with my memoir was real. I have come to realize that my future and hope are in God alone. They might be trying to lure you with the smell or steak, but you can’t hide a fishy smell. Honestly, God has our back and brings revelation. I’m so beyond grateful.

In ending, I’d like to point something out. My website has changed. For a very brief time I had two. My old website is now unlisted. My new website is http://www.shannonkenleyhinson.com you can read my blogs from my website if that suits you best. Just wanted to put that information out for those interested. I hope you all have a blessed Wednesday and the rest of your week is full of joy, strength and peace. Be blessed.

Breaking forth new ROOTS

August 17, 2026Leave a Comment

For some reason I feel a need to share this. A few weeks ago I snipped off some long overgrowth on a plant on our porch. I typically just throw the clippings away but figured by “rooting” them in water, I could add to an existing small plant in our dining room. As you know, any clippings not placed in water, will eventually wither and die. This is so true regarding our spiritual lives as well.

Let’s think about this. How many of you have gone through very dry seasons in life? You get distracted with raising a family, the pleasures of enjoying life, or perhaps your career…. Slowly you begin to read your Bible less and less. Your church attendance can become sporadic. Before you know it temptations come in “undetected” because you have “stopped walking with the Lord”. You become a “dry shoot” in desperate need of “living water’. Jesus is referred to as ‘Living water” many times in the Bible. (See John 4:10, 13-14 ) John 7:37-38 says, “On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’”” (NLT‬‬) Jesus is our “living water”. He brings renewal, spiritual refreshing, salvation and eternal life when we surrender to Him. Jesus wants to refresh you! You might say, “I’ve made some bad choices, done the unforgivable, sinned one too many times” or whatever the excuse is you might have. Jesus is merciful and full of grace. Check out Romans 5:8, “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” (NLT‬‬) (emphasis mine) When we confess our sins, He is faithful to forgive us. Sometimes you have to “get over yourself”! You have to admit, “I was wrong Lord.” Jesus wants to restore YOU! The Bible says He leaves the 99, to run after the 1 sheep who wandered away! What an amazing loving Savior! (See the parable of the lost sheep Luke 15;3-7) There is also the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32.

Scripture after scripture we see a loving Savior with open arms saying “Come to me!” The Bible is full of these merciful invitations, with Jesus’ nailed scarred hands reaching out to you, He says “Come!” You don’t have to live feeling dried out and incapable of getting out of your “pit” He is the “Living water” that will bring such a refreshment to your soul.

Just like those clippings I placed in water in the picture above, when we feel “cut off” and we re-immerse ourself back into seeking the Lord whole-heartedly, you will find yourself once again breaking forth roots into all God has for you. Don’t delay another day. We must live with eternity in mind. Have a blessed week!

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Not just lip service

August 9, 2026Leave a Comment

It’s been 11 days since I last posted a blog. In five years of blogging, I’m not sure if I’ve ever gone that long without sharing something. It wasn’t because I didn’t have anything to share. Last week I started some notes to use but just wan’t “feeling it”. There are times when silence is a good thing. That’s been me lately, just pondering, thinking and praying. As I’ve been studying the book of James in the New Testament of the Bible, the Lord has shown me a few things. I love the book of James. He doesn’t hold back but gets right to the point from the very second and third verses. “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.”James‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) (Emphasis mine)

Jame’s starts heavy, doesn’t he? I’ll confess to struggling with struggles. So last week as I continued studying James I took a look inside. Self inventory or assessment. I asked myself, “Is my faith visible?” Do my words (spoken or typed), actions, thoughts, motives…etc are they done in love and obedience to God? Why did I ask myself these things? Because faith is active. It’s done in love and obedience to the Lord. James 2;26 comes to mind: “Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.” (NLT‬‬).

I’m in a new season right now that I haven’t been in before. There was a time when I was doing too much: intense Bible study on my own, leading a Bible study (I had to memorize large portions because of my low vision), volunteering, not to mention dealing with vision and hearing limitations and mana going our household. The thing is, when I’m busy I don’t have as much time to “think”. The mind is a battlefield and managing thoughts no small task. Ron said last week, “You look depressed”. I responded, “How can I not be? There are struggles everywhere I turn.” Being in the house so much can be depressing. I felt the Lord gently correct me. You can bloom where you are, be fruitful in the little things. Get out of that pit of despair and do those chores you don’t feel like doing. Be joyful in this time. My timing is perfect. Okay Lord! I hear you!

There was another thing God spoke to my heart about last week. Not taking offense. Surely I’m not the only one. It dawned on me that taking offense can be a form of pride. Hear me out. When we take offense, we think our stance is right. I don’t do that a lot but I do occasionally do that with my husband. For the most part it is due to miscommunication, which by the way is no joke. (If you can hear and communicate well with your spouse, count yourself fortunate.) Sometimes I respond to what I “think” he said. We’ve been doing this thing called married life for 32+ years. In the beginning I looked at it like a game of “Wheel of Fortune”. You know, you get a few letters and you fill in the blanks. Well…. A fun positive spin on life sure does help. So you see, It’s quite human to take offense when you’re constantly misunderstanding something. The Lord had me to apologize and hubby appreciated that.

This morning I went to church with my friend Amy. The worship and the message were so good for my “dry bones”. The worship was soothing and tears began to fall. A good refreshing cleanse. Don’t get me started on the person playing the piano. Oh my goodness. I’ve known him for years and he can bring the most beautiful music out of a piano. The message encouraged me to fight til the finish. 2 Timothy 4:7 says, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.”‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) We must be faithful to keep our eyes on Jesus and not the struggles. Just like James said in the verse towards the beginning of this blog, consider those troubles an opportunity for great joy. Joy? Yes Joy! How? Truly, only by the grace of God. He can help us see struggles from a Heavenly perspective where we are being refined to reflect the image of Jesus. So stay the course. Keep up the good fight. Sometimes I will joke around with my husband when there are struggles. I’m like, “Here we go! Round 5…. Ding ding!“ He just laughs.

I never want my life to be just lip service (or empty words). I want people to see Jesus when they see me in public or in the car or ever at home. While people don’t see those “at home” scenes, God surely does. There is an old worship chorus I remember from years ago. It went like this: Praise you…Praise you… let my life O Lord, Praise you. That’s my hearts desire. As we start a new week tomorrow, let’s remember God is with us. He goes before us, He follows us. He lays His hand of blessing on our heads. (See Psalms 139:5) Stand tall and bloom in those struggles. God gets the glory and that’s where our purpose in life comes in….living for the Glory of God.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Praising in the “hallway”

July 29, 2026Leave a Comment

Picture from my friend Marcella Burk’s daily devotion. Used with permission.

This morning I received the above devotion picture through email. It deeply resonated with me so I reached out to my friend to ask if I could use it in my blog. Why did this touch me? I’ve been in a lot of “hallways” in life… patiently (or maybe not) waiting for God to open a door. Those hallways aren’t always well lite and you can become quite “discouraged” in the waiting.

There are lessons we can learn in the waiting. God uses these time in waiting to refine and prepare us for what lies ahead. It’s tempting though to wonder why do I have to endure so much. I know people who ponder this very question. I know God gives us these little signs that He is indeed with us and He is in control. Sometimes that “sign” is a text of encouragement, a worship song or scripture to redirect us. Just like in the quote in the picture above, perhaps God is asking, “Will you trust me in this?”

Last Sunday I was able to go to my “home” church with a friend. I love this church because the Word is preached and never “watered down”, the music ushers in the Holy Spirit and there are always church family to hug and fellowship with. Oh, and the late service always has a sign language interpreter. Part of what Pastor talked about was how we must enter through the narrow gate. You can find this in Matthew 7:13-14, ““You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.” (NLT‬‬) Jesus tells us the road is difficult. I suppose I should not be surprised. Pastor also touched on the fact that it doesn’t end with entering the narrow gate, we have to keep walking and serving. Everyday we have to get up and do it again. Get up, choose Jesus, seek His presence through prayer and receive spiritual nourishment through reading God’s Word. Starting my day in this way gives me joy not of this world. My husband Ron found me dancing in the kitchen recently and said, “You’ve got joy”. I replied, “Thank you Lord.” I guess in a sense it’s like “dancing and praising in the hallways while I wait for answered prayers. I don’t know why God works the way He does. I do know that He is a promise keeper and all of His promises are yes in Christ Jesus. (2 Corinthians 1:20). As we study God’s Word, we are assured of God’s character. God is good all the time. His mercies are new every single day. He pours new strength in us every single day. He is faithful and trustworthy. You fill yourself with God’s truth so that when those “hallway” experiences come, you can praise Him while you wait.

We also find in the Bible that we are to take up our cross and follow Him. Here is the scripture for that. “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.” Matthew‬ 16: 24 (NLT‬‬) So what is your cross? For me it’s living with my hearing and visual limitations. It is so not easy! But God never said it would be easy. He did say He would be with me and give me strength. He did say He would give me peace. For me, it’s all about Jesus. He is my all in all! For me, there is no other way! 1 Peter 5:10 reassures us by saying, “In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation.” (‬ ‭NLT‬‬) Another encouraging scripture is Romans 8:37, “No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.” (NLT‬‬)

As we praise in the “hallways” of uncertainty, let’s hold fast to Jesus. He is a Way Maker and we need to trust Him in every situation. Trust me, I know it’s hard at times but all things are possible with God. Stand firm, deeply rooted in faith in Jesus. Have a blessed rest of the week. He’s got you! You’re going to make it!!

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

Daily “Manna”

July 22, 2026Leave a Comment

Back in the Old Testament in the book of Exodus, God sent the hungry Israelites manna from Heaven, every morning as they traveled through the wilderness for 40 years. They were only to gather enough for one day. If they hoarded it, it would rot. In this way God tested their obedience to trust Him to fortify them for each day.

I see some connections with modern day life. While we don’t have physical manna falling from Heaven each morning, we do have God’s Word that we can partake of each and every day to fortify and strengthen us for whatever we face. When I have my quiet times with the Lord in the morning: time in prayer and in scripture, God truly does refresh me This is a discipline I’ve learned that really helps me each day. I often think what an incredible difference it would make in peoples lives if they learned the habit of going to God each morning to be fully equipped for the day. We don’t know what’s coming at us but He sees the full picture.

The last two weeks I’ve been very stressed and drained by life situations. I’ve been struggling with my comprehension again for some reason. I guess I’ll need to go back and start doing auditory exercises again. My low vision has also given me issues lately, thats not to mention people. The thing about people, we are all flawed in some way. No one is perfect, but with my hearing and visual limits it takes a special kind of patience to deal with it. Last Saturday night I broke down and just cried. I explained to my husband, “I am always thinking about everyone else. Making sure everyone else is happy and taken care of, but what about me?” I struggled Saturday trying to understand what everyone was saying around me. There was that, and no notes for several weeks from the church we’ve been visiting, dealing with emails coming through regarding marketing my memoir….. combine it all and it’s just stressful. I finally did talk to my Mom about it. She told me it’s not God’s will for me to be stressed. She’s praying along with me and this week has been much better.

I can relate to the Israelites wandering in the wilderness for 40 years. My life with my visual and hearing limitations poses some obstacles that can seem impossible at times. I must remember that God IS in control. I came across a verse in Joshua 1 this morning: “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”” Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) I was also reminded of another scripture found in Exodus 14: “The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”” Exodus‬ ‭14‬:‭14‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

Do you need these reminders as well? We can trust God. He is faithful. He answers prayers. I’ll be the first to tell you, His timing is not like ours, however it is perfect. He sees the BIG picture and has our best in mind, as a Father watches over his children, so God watches over us.

Learning to trust God’s perfect Will is sometimes hard. About a month ago a scout came across my memoir Rooted by the Water and it was entered into some sort of selection process for “page to screen” with a production company for the inspirational true story category. I had to sign a non-disclosure so I couldn’t say anything. (I was released from that on Monday.) Out of many books I made the top 20, then I made the top 5. Two days ago I heard they have selected another story and I’ve been released from the non-disclosure. I was like, “Okay Lord, this wasn’t Your Will. What’s next?” So I wait for direction on that end. The following verses come to mind: ““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)

Where ever you are in life, whatever you are facing, God IS trustworthy and loves us so much. We can rest in Him. When you are beyond stressed and drained by life, step back and just breathe. I do this and it really helps. Breathe, pray, worship the Lord, read the Bible and watch Him work things out in His way. Older worship songs always come to me at these moments. One is with me right now: Breathe by Marie Barnet (1995 Mercy / Vineyard Publishing) Once again the YouTube video isn’t loading. Let me add the link so you can check it out if you’re unfamiliar with it. He will refresh you are you worship along. https://youtu.be/oZhUesUaM98?si=HXoW5SAKBQ9lu3pO

Have a productive and peaceful rest of the week. Stay in prayer and God’s Word. He is faithful always. God bless you all.

Www.shannonkenleyhinson.com

What it means to “Abide”

June 11, 2026Leave a Comment

When I think of “abide” I envision the Angel Oak Tree on James Island in South Carolina.

What does “abide” mean to you? Even though I know what it means to abide, I asked “Siri” out of curiosity to see what it said. Here are the 3 meanings I saw: 1)Accept or act in accordance with. 2) Be able to tolerate. 3) Continue without fading or being lost. So how does this relate to our daily lives? As a Christian I am called to abide in Christ. John 15:4- 5 says, “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. (NKJV‬‬)

I see these verses so actively present in my daily life. To apply the definition to life I “accept and act in accordance” by choosing God every single day. Joshua 24:15 says, “But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.” (NLT‬‬) (emphasis added) Everyday we can choose Jesus. In the things I say, do, write etc. I can make a choice to glorify God in those things. Recently I had a Literary Agent ask if I only wrote for a Christian audience. I responded, “Anyone can enjoy and relate to my writings. While I don’t write primarily for Christians, my faith in Christ is so deeply rooted in me that it shows up in some form”. She respected my answer. I must abide, apart from Jesus I am nothing.

Another aspect of the abide definition is to be able to tolerate. Let’s think on this for a minute. As long as I’m “connected” to Christ, I can withstand what may come. Why? He is the source of my strength. When I reach the end of myself (being pulled by all sides from people. Having peoples expectations that I can’t meet etc.), His roots run deep to fortify what I lack. Trust me, I lack a Lot, however Jesus enables me to continue standing (to tolerate) and gently teaches me to “Be still” and let Him work it out.

The third part of the definition is to continue without fading or being lost. This I can so relate to. How can we do this? We can continue growing with resilience as we “let go” of things that we are holding on to. Sometimes I “hold on” to things that aren’t in themselves bad but God has something else in mind for me to experience. In order to move on, we sometimes must “let go” and move forward in faith. I recently stepped back from the homeless ministry we have been involved in for a couple of year.s. It was amazing and stretched me in incredible ways. I was honored to be asked to share the devotion each week. That stretched me in ways I can’t explain. The preparation was time consuming but I learned transparency in front of people, to be able to share my weaknesses and how God works through those things. (If you are reading this blog and have never head about my experience, I live with vision and hearing limitations.) It was time to step back and see where God leads. I believe there is confirmation in this decision because for the last two weeks during the time I would usually be ministering with the homeless, God has had me minister to a friend with dementia who has been showing up at our house. I’m open and listening to see where God directs.

Back when I released my memoir “Rooted by the Water”, Jeremiah 17:7-9 was instrumental to the title I chose for my book. Jeremiah 17:7-9 says, ““Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, And whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit.” (NKJV) This is such a beautiful metaphor of a life of resilience, abiding in faith in Christ. That is my daily goal in life, to be deeply rooted and sustained by Jesus.

We can’t see what’s coming and are often blown from all sides by life, but when we are abiding in Christ, deeply rooted in God’s Word, we can withstand what may come. It’s a life of faith. Indeed the abundant life is walking by faith not by sight. So we press on to continue on this journey, rooted in all God calls us to be.

Be encouraged to abide in Christ. He is always faithful and always there. Be blessed. Check out my new website my son Joshua created for me.
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

Deeply touched💙

May 25, 2026Leave a Comment

First let me say, Happy Memorial Day. I’m beyond thankful for the service men and women who have given it all for our freedom here in America. Take time to reflect on the “cost” of the freedoms we enjoy. 🇺🇸

I was not planning to write today but my heart was deeply touched this morning. Since working with the “Book Strategist”, reviews and ratings are beginning to trickle in on Goodreads. When my book first came out five years ago a few friends wrote reviews on Amazon. I greatly appreciate them taking the time. It’s a completely different thing when perfect strangers read and put into writing how the book moved them. I was in tears as I read the review this morning on Goodreads. Below is a screenshot of the review. This is why I wrote the book. Marion “nailed it” in the review. Just wanted to share. During my quiet time this morning I prayed, “Lord this is your story. Take it where you want it to go and reach those whom you desire to encourage.”

Another quick note….shout out to my son Joshua. I mentioned some things that I’d like to add to the basic website.It’s now a work in progress as he has taken over the website for me. He too faces visual and hearing limitation challenges, but it’s not as severe as mine. (Thank you Got and God willing his won’t worsen) He is a smart guy and wanted to see if he could figure out the website management. He was able to add my new book video trailer. He was so excited. You don’t realize how we use the computer….. we have to zoom in so we can see. I had not seen him on a computer in a while and it made me pause to watch him and his determination to figure it out. The “apple surely doesn’t fall far from the tree” He face timed a friend who is very talented with these things and his friend was laughing, telling him what he had accomplished wasn’t easy. Joshua wants to try to figure it all out for me. I’ll tell you, he can be a prankster though. He told me he thought about changing the name to “Rooted by the Booger”. I said, “You better not!!!” We have that playful kind of relationship. Anyway, check out the website link below if you’d like to see the book video trailer. We will see where God takes this. I am humbled and beyond grateful for this experience.

Blessings to you all!

Www.shannonkhinson.com.

Don’t despise “small things”

May 20, 2026Leave a Comment

I’m sitting here on the porch this morning working on the devotion to share with the homeless ministry later on today. I find it so amazing how God brings these topics and scripture to me that are just as much for me as they are for the precious people who will hear it later. Today I’m going to teach on not despising the small things or small beginnings in our lives. That can surely apply to anyone.

We all have those day, weeks and even seasons when thins seems so small and progress seems so slow. You know, “two steps forwards, three steps back”. These times can feel very frustrating and we can often wonder, “Lord, how is this going to play out?” The Old Testament prophet Zechariah could probably relate. He was a post – exile prophet.

Here’s a bit of history in a “nutshell”. King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon conquered Israel and sent the people into exile for approximately 70 years. During that time King Solomon’s magnificent Temple of the Lord was plundered and burned to the ground. Later the King of Persia defeated Babylon and he allowed the people of Israel to return to Jerusalem to rebuild. So the people of Israel returned to Jerusalem and began the process of rebuilding the temple. However what was coming up was nothing compared to the former glory of King Solomons temple. The progress was slow with limited resources and incomplete walls. It was unimpressive and likely discouraging. However God sent a strong message to Zechariah through a vision. Zechariah 4:10 says,“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand.” (The seven lamps represent the eyes of the Lord that search all around the world.)”‬ ‭(NLT‬‬) So you see, God rejoices in small beginnings, in the work in progress. We need to do the same.

We can often feel frustrated with small beginnings and small things in our lives because it exposed our impatience. People are driven to see results. We want to see impact and often times get discouraged with slow progress. However God rejoices in our faithfulness and the work in progress. We must stay the course and keep looking to God for guidance.

One thing about people, we must look up to God for direction and validation. When we look around, we become distracted and discouraged by comparing ourselves to others. The world and culture are always telling us what our lives “should look like” or how we “should look”, what we “should be wearing, driving and doing”. It’s all distraction that deflated your peace and joy. Keep looking to God for direction. Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. (NKJV)

Many people try to do things in their own strength, possibly out of a sense of pride. I’ve done this before by saying “I can do it myself, thank you.” Can you hear the sassy? Been there, done that. Just being honest. There are many things I can’t do because of my hearing and visual imitations. The things I can do, I like to do myself. God has worked with me on this and I am much better. God wants us to rely on His strength not our own. Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (That is from memory. Not sure which translation). I also came across a verse in Zechariah that I love. “Then he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.”
‭‭Zechariah‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬ ‭(ESV). I really have to take these scriptures to heart and let them sink deep within. Here’s a little testimony for you. When I signed up to help with the homeless ministry, I signed up with a friend who could help me understand through sign language. Yes, I can understand some with my cochlear implant but it depends on the situation and when you add my low vision to the mix, it is challenging. Well, right now my friend is out of town so I’ve been cooking the rice and beans and also teaching the devotion. Last week two ladies at the shelter approached me with health issues. One I could partially understand. The second lady I had great difficulty understanding. I asked her name and she pointed to her name tag, but with my low vision, I couldn’t see it. I explained that I couldn’t see her name tag, and I equally couldn’t understand her prayer request. However, I told her, “God knows your name and He knows exactly what you need, so let’s pray together and ask Him to meet your need”. I prayed with her and have to release it into the Lord’s care. I often wonder, “Lord, you know I can’t see that well and you know I have great difficulty understanding, why am I here doing this?” His answer seems pretty apparent, “It’s Him, not me” Not by my might, or my power, or special talent etc, but “By my Spirit says the Lord of Hosts”. From a human perspective it’s an uncomfortable place to be, but from a spiritual perspective it’s the best place to be…. Fully relying on God not on myself.

I will wrap this blog up with one last scripture: Philippians 1:6 says, “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (ESV) Did you see that? It’s a “good” work and He will bring it to completion. God finishes what He starts. Let me encourage you to “stay the course”. Keep looking to Jesus in all things. He’s for you!!

Be blessed!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Hindsight is SO interesting

May 12, 2026Leave a Comment

Tomorrow May 13, 2026, marks five years ago that I published my autobiography Rooted by the Water through Westbow Press. In hindsight, I shake my head in wonder, not at myself but at how awesome God is. As I look back at the writing process and publishing journey I am in awe of God. He enabled me to put into writing this unique journey He has me living with visual and hearing limitations. The resilience and grace He enables me to live out on a daily basis blows my mind. I remember writing my book with the font greatly enlarged on our computer. I mean seriously, it was like “pencils” it was enlarged so big. It is very hard for me to see the difference between comas and periods and I did most of my own editing. When I submitted the manuscript to Westbow Press, I was informed that I had used some strong language. I thought, “What in the world are they talking about? There is no bad language in my story!” Turned out the “strong:” language was using the world CRAZY! Seriously!!! They wanted me to go in and make changes to the word “crazy”. I can’t make this stuff up! I was like, “Can you give me a hint where it is in the book? You realized I’m visually impaired!” Somehow with God’s help, I got the changes made and submitted for publishing. It was indeed a journey and I’m so thankful God walked me through it. It’s His story as my life is lived out for His glory. It’s always been my desire to encourage others to not give up, to keep looking to Jesus for help. All of my help comes from the Lord! I could never live this life in my own strength.

After publishing my book in 2021, I realized that my story did not end there. Life continues and I continue to navigate life’s “waves”. It’s a never ending adventure, so my blog was born a couple of months later in the summer of 2021. I faithfully share my life and what God is teaching me. There are hundreds of posts available to read and be encouraged by. One thing that brings me great joy is pouring into others. God pours into me and I must share what He gives. One very interesting thing is to see the countries around the world that see my blog. It’s become a ministry that obviously is read on the other side of the world. Today there are views in Hong Kong, Singapore, Belgium to name a few. I just shake my head in wonder. I’m not saying I have MANY views but they trickle in and I often think, “What in the world.” I am a humble person, never thinking more highly of myself than I should. I know without doubt it’s God who has enabled me and not myself. I’m just trying to be obedient.

Something interesting occurred a couple of months ago. I got an email from a Professor who happens to be an Israeli historian. It was the oddest thing. He had done a search on the word resilience and that’s how he discovered my book. He asked me what I had done to market it because he felt it should have more reviews. I was completely honest. I had done nothing to market my book. I am an encourager, a prayer warrior but I don’t know anything about marketing a book. He encouraged me to ask authors I know how they market their books. He also shared that he too had been in my situation when he had written books in the past. He shared the person who did his own book strategy planning. I reached out to her a while back and she has been a joy to work with so far. I’ve been very hesitant to share any of this because it’s hard to trust people. I get scam e mail daily regarding my book. I have prayed through this process and it’s definitely an exercise of faith. I told her that I would love to reach more people, to encourage and share my faith. I haven’t held back one bit on sharing my faith in Jesus and even told her I was praying for guidance for her as she works on my project. We will see where this goes. If nothing more, I’ve touched one more soul for Jesus.

If you haven’t yet read Rooted by the Water check it out. You can scan below to see how to purchase. It is my life story, insights I’ve learned, wisdom gleamed through the struggles and encouragement to bloom where you’re planted. There are moments of humor, much transparency and even some raw moments. God is so incredibly faithful and my hearts desire is to bring glory to His name. I would be honored if you would write a review if it touches your heart.

If you go to my website http://www.shannonkhinson.com you can find all of my blog posts from the menu in the upper right hand corner. The website itself is a work in progress. I’m beyond thankful for the journey and for the Lord’s guidance every step of the way.

Be blessed and BLOOM where you’re planted.