#pressthrough – Page 2 – rootedbythewater.blog

Lessons from a kayak outting

September 25, 2025September 25, 2025Leave a Comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

http://www.shannonkhinson.com.

The Art of Conversing

August 23, 2025Leave a Comment

Here’s a little “peek” into my world. As an observer of human nature I find it interesting to watch people having conversations. The back and forth flow of words, smiles and laughter. It intrigues me and makes me slightly jealous at peoples skills in the “art”. Yes I call it an “art”. Today I watched the back and forth on a FaceTime. I am training to learn how to really share the phototherapy technology I’ve been using and love. I would never promote something unless I honestly believe it works and I do. So here I am going way beyond myself with watching zoom meetings and imitating FaceTime calls. If you told me I’d be doing this I would have laughed out loud. But I will let you all laugh along with me asI learn: trail and error.

Now back to conversing. From my perspective on today’s zoom I felt a bit like I was in a tennis match of sorts. A Volley back and forth of information and questions. Spoken language is so very different than sign language but I never want to limit myself to one type of dialogue. In all honestly, I prefer text or written language. The backspace is awesome! Yes, I’m over here laughing at that little joke. As I more watched today’s FaceTime than participated, honestly I have to zoom in to see the faces well and the lighting doesn’t always help. So many factors when it comes to Total communication: putting what I hear and what I see together and trust me, I am missing some gaps here and there. Very thankful for a patient caring friend who knows what she’s doing and can sign as well. I am learning a lot and thankful for the journey and stretching of myself.

This afternoon was another type of conversing at a baby shower for a friends daughter. There were both deaf, hearing impaired and hearing people there so lots of different types of conversation going on. It’s interesting because deaf people can converse in a loud group from across the room. I suppose people who talk loud can too. Just an observation. I on the other hand have to be fairly close to do either; understand speech or read signs and I’m always missing something. However, written language I can understand and retain.

Just a little reflection tonight as I think back on today. Honestly all I can do is try my best and let the pieces fall where they will. My gifts are encouraging and prayer. I’m the kind of person that meets you where you are, not expecting anything but just wanting to give hope to keep moving forward. We are all different with such a variety of talents and skills. Let’s encourage each other to be the very best version of who we are and strive to keeps stretching ourselves to learn new things. One day, God willing, I will master the “art” of conversing. I do fairly well one on one, but add more people and I’m lost in the “volley” of words, signs and faces. Just being real. Hope everyone enjoys the rest of their weekend. Be blessed and better yet, Be a Blessing.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

The Fine-line of pushing

July 17, 2025Leave a Comment

I love this quote. It is actually “so me” BUT in my life there is a fine-line. Finding balance is key.

I am forever trying to figure out the fine-line of pushing. How about you? I can push myself too hard on the day to day basis and am always trying to find the right balance. When push comes to shove, it’s too far and the end result is exhaustion. (More mentally than physically). I went over and beyond this week and I was literally about to fall over last night when I got home from serving. I wanted to go right to bed and it was not even dark outside. I made myself wait until 10 then went to sleep and slept 11 hours. Feeling much better today. Once again I’m on a quest to get it done around the house.

Living with hearing and visual limitations, it takes more brain energy to deal with the normal things like conversing with people for a length of time, both spoken and sign language. (They are equally tiring but I love my people and push myself anyway) The same thing can be said about pushing past limitations. On Tuesday I overdid the zoom meetings attempt. I mean honestly, I was literally trying in vain to understand a live zoom. Someone was texting me some pointers of what they were basically talking about. I was using my iPad for the zoom meeting itself and texts coming in on the same device. I grabbed the iPhone which is synced to the iPad to answer the texts. Here’s the catcher, I can’t see the iPhone unless it’s under my video magnifier. Lord have mercy….. but I tried to keep a straight face and not show frustration. I’ve got to find the right balance in this. Life can stretch me so much at times, I wonder what it’s like for normal people. But hey….. I know normal is overrated.

Finding balance in the new business venture is something I’m going to have to do. I realize I can’t do it all so I’m going to need to learn to say no to some things. The phototherapy stem call technology is such an effective and fascinating product to learn and promote. I’m realizing I’ve got so much more of Life on my plate than others can even begin to understand, and knowing that, I’ve got to figure out a balanced approach.

Yesterday was ministry day when I help feed the homeless in Rock Hill. Since we have moved to an indoor facility we can now do a short devotion with the people before they eat. Pastor Daryl asked me to share with the people last night and that was such a privilege to share God’s Word with them. Nerve-wracking as well. While a women a couple of weeks ago told me it’s not hard, I personally feel a weight of responsibility that I don’t take lightly. Two days ago, God dropped some verses in my heart before Daryl even texted me. I knew in my heart what to share, but I still had to stand up there and do it. I wanted to mentally and spiritually prep myself right before standing in front of the people but I was busy in the kitchen washing the pots, pans and bowls we used during food prep. This is an industrial sized kitchen. God worked it all out though. I realize it’s Him working through me, and not me myself. I think it went pretty well. I’m going to ask someone for feedback later, who was out there with me, as they have asked me to do it again next week.

Looking back and at the present, I do see all this stretching might be leading up to something. What? I do not know. Over a year ago I was leading Bible study in our deaf group, when I couldn’t see the book. I sat down at my video magnifier that I use for reading a book and took detailed notes on my iPad using symbols to help me remember, memorizing great portions of it to be able to best teach. It took a lot out of me, but it was worth it to see growth. Next I began to weekly volunteer with RiceNBeans ministry. I can’t hear the people well but I didn’t let that stop me from serving. Now here I am still involved in that, in a new location helping with devotions. Also presently learning the Patching business and possibly pushing myself a bit too much in that area. It seems to all lead to something, which I’m not yet sure what that something is.

I believe my audiologist would be shocked at how much I’m putting myself out there to force myself to understand as much as possible. If I could give advice to myself, I’d say “Pray for a more balanced approach”. I can and do overdo it. I know when I’m so tired I want to go to sleep at 7:30 then I’ve pushed a bit too far. I guess my “Kenley stubbornness” comes into play quite a bit. Lord help me find that fine-line and stop there. I know other deaf people (just deaf, no vision issues) who only interact with deaf people. I’m not one of those. I love all people; hearing, deaf, disabled, foreign, black, white, type A personality, type B, outgoing, not so much, etc People are God’s workmanship and are there to love and encourage. That’s just who I am. I am so so thankful to have time with God daily to soak up strength and direction for the day. It’s my Lifeline. Do you know Jesus? He can be your Lifeline too.

I better get back to work. This is my second cleaning day. Got half of it done two days ago and finishing up today. Have a blessed day.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Multi-Tasking kind of Day

July 15, 2025Leave a Comment

We all have those days when we’re on a quest to get it done. Thank God for the ability to multi-task, or shall I say the willingness to attempt it. Just being real. I am also so thankful for a crockpot to help get dinner together. This is the second day this week I’ve used ours. Our son Joshua asked for “Pain in the butt” chicken for dinner. Well honestly I have another word for it but butt is much nicer. The recipe is actually called Marry Me Chicken but when you see like I do, it gets another name. I have a zoom meeting tonight and wanted to tweak the recipe and use the crockpot so the guys can eat when they want and it’s easy clean up. Sure hope it turns out good.

This is also my cleaning day but I’m apparently only getting half of it done. Was trying to catch an afternoon zoom meeting, challenging myself to tune in via “Bluetooth” while I cleaned but that was a bust. Couldn’t follow without actually watching. #goals One day I’ll get it but it won’t be today. Moved some things around a bit while stopping to send texts and check messages. Now that dinner is in the crockpot, I can move on to another chore and continued prayer before this evenings zoom meeting. I have no clue how I will do, but I will show up and be a “fly on the wall” while attempting to gleam a bit and stretch myself a bit further. Not to mention writing a blog and mid way through catching Joshua’s friend before he left to ask him a tech question about Google Documents and spreadsheets. Well, I did say I was multi-tasing and he helped me figure it out!! Woo Hoo!

Also so excited that Pastor Daryl asked me to do the devotion for our homeless friends tomorrow night at RiceNBeans Rock Hill. Truth be told, this morning during my quiet time a scripture dropped into my heart. I’m going to continue praying through the day for confirmation from the Lord. I don’t know what these precious people need to hear but God knows and will direct me in what to say. I’d appreciate prayers for guidance and confidence / boldness. I am not qualified to do these things; the devotion for the ministry outreach and these zooms BUT God doesn’t called those already equipped, rather He equips us despite our abilities or lack there of. So, onward I go….. I need to accomplish a bit more today so I will leave you with this….. let’s finish out today STRONG IN THE LORD and in the POWER OF HIS MIGHT! Be blessed!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Where is your heart?

July 9, 2025July 9, 2025Leave a Comment

You can tell so much about a person by observing what is important to them. Our “treasures” can be so many things from God, family, health, serving, special interests, friends, animals, vacations, careers and even money. While some of those are better treasures to pursue, finding a balance is so important. Matthew 6:21 says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”(NKJV‬‬) For me, my treasure is serving God. I’ve found that when I put God first, then everything else falls into place. That is my heart, serving God and serving others. Almost everything I do is about helping someone, encouraging them and praying for them. My treasure spills over into the choices I make each day.

Sometimes situations change though and I find myself feeling “out of sorts”. Right now I am challenging myself with a new opprtunity I am trying to embrace. What’s that you may ask. Well after three and a half months of using the phototherapy stem cell technology and experiencing first hand the benefits, I’m now sharing the technology with others by being a “Brand Partner”. I would never consider this unless I believe in the product and I can just say WOW! These patches are truly amazing. So the last few weeks I have been reading testimonies, talking to people, attending zoom meetings and watching recorded presentations to learn. It is indeed stretching me BUT I am learning. You might also wonder why I decided to get behind this product. Honestly, everyone can benefit from the technology. I want to see people experience freedom in their lives. Freedom from pain, both emotionally and physically. I also have prayed for a way to help my family for years. Over the years some people have asked Ron why I didn’t work. That goes to show how well they don’t understand my visual limitations. I’d love to work but honestly all jobs require vision or the ability to understand people. This new opprtunity is something I want to give my best try. And bottom line, it goes right along with my “servants heart” of wanting to help others.

My husband Ron has always supported me and supported things I wanted to do. He supported me through the writing of my autobiography, Rooted by the Water. He supports me in my blogging to encourage others. That is a totally out of pocket expense I have done for almost four years. I don’t make any money with it but I know God is pleased and glorified and that is all that matters. Ron is behind this journey using the X39 patches as well. When I first talked to my college friend Kellie about the patches, it was the renewal of our own dormant stem cells that intriqued me the most. Since no doctor has ever been able to help with my optic nerves, we thought it was worth trying. I’m so glad we did because I have more energy, I’m sleeping better and emotionally much more balanced. I’m taking just half of my anti depressant medicine I’ve taken for over 25 years. Thank you Jesus!

You might wonder what this has to do with my treasure and heart. This is a way to help others. If I have talked to you about this or invited you to a group to see the testimonials it is because I care and believe it could benefit you also. The patches are nontransdermal and contains no drugs. They don’t conflict with any medications. They help your body do what God designed it to do, heal itself.

As I seek to put God first and serve others I am excited to see what lies ahead. God is using this opprtunity to stretch me for the better. If you know me you know I don’t like zoom and I don’t like facetime, but here I am joining zoom meetings and giving it my best try. Tomorrow Kellie is going to FaceTime me to help me one on one and I’m so thankful. I’m getting over my insecurities and pushing forward to grow. In doing so I know God will be glorified as He knows my heart. A heart for Him and for helping others.

http://www.shannonkhinson.com

The HARDEST question

June 1, 2025Leave a Comment

To write or not to write….. no that isn’t the hardest question. I’ll certainly have to clear this with someone before publishing it (and I certainly will). (He said it was fine to publish it.)

#Iykyk…. Yep that’s the truth and half the time, no I take that back, the majority of the time people don’t know. (For my older reader, and I know there are a few. IYKYK means if you know you know).

This afternoon was the time for a deep discussion and sharing. The majority I won’t repeat and this little bit that I do share I will make sure he is ok with sharing. People can learn from these things. It was after church and our 27 year old son was annoyed due to his hearing and vision issues and not being able to understand. I totally understand. I remember years ago, a bit younger than him, being quite annoyed during church to the point that I got up and walked out crying. That was before I had learned sign language. So many similarities between us and it does truly hurt my heart to see him endure these things.

So at the end of a lengthy much needed talk today he asked me the hardest question he could ask, saying I was the only one who really understood. He asked, “If you knew you could pass along your hearing and vision problems would you have still had me?” I honestly responded, “Well, I did ask my doctor if I could pass along my limitations and he said no. But honestly, you are my greatest joy.”. He then gave me a big hug. No one and I mean absolutely no one besides God will ever understand our situation and frustrations we endure.

Yesterday my mom picked me and Joshua and his puppy Moose up. We went to Brixx to sit outside for pizza then went to mom’s so Joshua could help in her yard. Moose is a little magnet for attention being the cute puppy he is. Joshua took Moose for a little walk while we waited for the bill. A few people approached him and asked about Moose. He of course didn’t hear it all and it bothered him. He related a situation that happened at the gym when someone he knew walked by and was talking to him but he didn’t hear them nor recognize them and he felt bad. I told him today you need to say, “Look I’m hearing and visually impaired. I’m not ignoring you I just didn’t hear or see you.” I totally get it. It took me years to be able to say that. You just don’t want people to see weakness. As I talked and encouraged him today I asked him, “How do you think I live with all this with Joy and peace? It’s not in my own strength! I’ve gotten to a point where I honestly say, “Lord I can’t do this but with Your help I can.” You need to get to that point.”. I shared with him the scripture in 2 Corinthians 12:7-9, “Even though I have received such wonderful revelations from God. So to keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud. Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.” (NLT) The bold is what I emphasized to him. It’s not what we can do as a person but what God can do through us when we surrender what we want and let Him do what’s His perfect Will.

I will tell you as a mom these are the most precious conversations because God has given us such a bond that no one else understands. It’s hard to find really genuine people who stick by your side. People disappoint you but God is always there. Joshua said , “If He’s there.” I said, “ Watch me as I breathe. You see my lungs rise as they fill with air then recede?” He said , “yes”. I said,”You can’t see the air, but you can see my lungs fill with it. It’s the same with God. He is there. You can’t see Him but He fills us when we let Him.” He said,” Good analogy.”

I don’t understand God but His ways are not our ways as He is so much higher than we are. All I know is to pray and trust God through every single mountain and valley. It’s hard. People don’t understand. We can’t hold that against them. It’s hard to understand something you’ve never experienced. We have to let go and let God. There is no other way. Nothing in this world will ever satisfy our souls like knowing Jesus and walking with Him. As we sang at the end of church today, Oh it reaches to the highest mountain, and it flows to the lowest valley. The blood that gives me strength from day to day. It will never lose its power.

Sometimes these deep testimonies are needed. So many people deal with so many things and people never know. It’s my hope and prayer that in being transparent you will know you aren’t alone. You never know what someone is dealing with. The deep frustration and annoyance, so always have a kind smile and kind world. It can can make a difference.

When I asked Joshua’s permission to share a small fraction of our conversation he was okay with it. I told him a lot of people go through hard things and say nothing. When people share these life lessons, they realize they aren’t alone. It’s my prayer this encourages someone and reminds you to pray for those around you. You never know what people are dealing with. Be Blessed and better yet, be a Blessing!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

what’s stopping you?

April 28, 2025Leave a Comment

Good morning. Today starts a new week. It’s a new day to live out our purpose. I’m not exactly sure where I am going with this, so stay with me as I sort through what God has put on my heart.

Having a new puppy in the family, our daily routines have shifted a bit and lots of puppy proofing is continuously being done. Lots of refereeing between our “Old Queen” Joy and puppy Moose who constantly is exploring and playing with everything.

I “have to” maintain my morning quiet time. It is a MUST for me to function with a good attitude with whatever life throws at me I’ve been waking up a bit earlier before anyone else so I can have my quiet time with the Lord. I’m thankful for the discipline God has given me to set this morning time apart for Him. Do I always feel like it? No, but I do it anyway. During these times He ministers to my heart and points out things that I need to work out. I’m so thankful for His daily guidance. It makes all the difference in the world in my approach and perspective in life. It softens my words toward others and helps me to think before speaking or withhold something my flesh wants to say, but should not.

My question to you is, what’s stopping you from giving God first priority in your life? First fruits of your morning time so God can direct the course of your day? It is a choice. I know having a family is demanding. Families are a blessing from the Lord. God understands when your role as a parents or spouse require your time and effort. We can sacrifice and wake a bit earlier before anyone.

In todays culture our cell phones and devices attract our first moments when we wake. What’s the latest news, did anyone contact me this morning, did anyone “like” my social media post? Yes, indeed we are all quilty o that. God has dealt with me on the “device” issue.My trouble was that I read my Bible online because I can zoom in to see it better. So the temptation is there to look at other things first. I have to discipline myself to pray first then read God’s Word.

What about unforgiveness? Can having unforgiveness in your heart prevent you from seeking the Lord? As I pray I ask the Lord to forgive me of offending Him. I don’t mean to and honestly try to live a Godly live, but I am human and I do fall short. I’m so thankful that Jesus forgives me when I confess my sins. He also desires me to forgive others who offend me. People are people and I think quite often they don’t “intend” to hurt your feelings they just don’t think. Since Jesus shows us such amazing grace, we ought to do the same. Forgive and forget! Forget? Yes, forget! We shouldn’t hold a “record of wrongs” done to us. God can enable us to have a forgiving spirit.

As I was reading the Bible this morning (I chose a Chronological Bible plan for this year) I came across a story where King David asked Ornan to sell his threshing floor so that King David could raise an altar for sacrifice. Here is this scripture that caught my attention. “Then Ornan said to David, “Take it, and let my Lord the king do what seems good to him. See, I give the oxen for burnt offerings and the threshing sledges for the wood and the wheat for a grain offering; I give it all.” But King David said to Ornan, “No, but I will buy them for the full price. I will not take for the Lord what is yours, nor offer burnt offerings that cost me nothing.”” 1 Chronicles‬ ‭21‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭(ESV‬‬). Do you notice David refuses to take it for free? He is determined to pay for it, it would cost him something. This same thing can apply to us. Seeking the Lord costs us something. Let’s be eager to grow in our relationship with Jesus. It’s going to cost us something but it is so worth it. So….. what’s stopping you? Have a blessed day! You are loved!

http://www.shannonkhinson.com

Look who’s Back

April 7, 2025Leave a Comment

Never in almost four years of blogging have I missed a week of publishing at least one blog to encourage and challenge others. Well, until last week. I suppose there comes a time to rest and recover which is what we did last week. Having covid and the flu at the same time really drained my energy, but we are much better. Just about every night I’d tell my husband Ron I was going to go on to bed. I said “I’m going to get this day in the books, tomorrow is another day.” It was like checking off a day of being able to do nothing but read. He watched March Madness basketball and I read. Joshua never got it and was free to do his own thing. I did download a ebook from the library called “Land of Silence” by Tessa Afshar. It is a Biblical fiction based on the woman with the bleeding issue, who touched the hem of Jesus garment. That account in the Bible has always resounded with me because I have dealt with my issues for so many years and no doctor can help. BUT….. oh my goodness…. This book has had so many sad twists. The main character finally encounters Jesus in Chapter 30! Prior to chapter 30, there is so much heart break it is astounding. Thank God I’m almost finished. Not a light read but it has been thought provoking and has helped pass the days of being sick inside.

When I started feeling better Ron had been outside cutting the grass, coming in he said the momma Mourning Dove had nested again on our bakers rack. We were surprised since I had moved the bakers rack to the other end of the porch but “Little Momma” found her spot and made a new nest. I love nature and it amazes me that this is the fourth year the Dove has nested there. In this world full of difficulties and issues to deal with, it’s refreshing to appreciate the simple pleasures of new life. I don’t intend to watch the nest this year, but will leave her to her business of bringing baby doves into the world.

We also have been anticipating the arrival of our “grand pup”. Last Friday we took a day trip to Union Grove NC to an Amish establishment. They breed Bernadoodles and Joshua got first pick of the litter. It was my first day back in the “land of the living” and the beautiful countryside was delightful. There were ten puppies available and Joshua made his pick. How in the world do people pick just one? They are all so cute! He will be able to pick him up April 19. Joshua is so excited. We are hoping our old Queen Joy will be a good little “granny”. We shall see.

Lots of new things to look forward to: renewed health, new baby birds and a new puppy. Good times ahead. Can’t wait to get back involved with RiceNBeans too. Sometimes we face life interruptions. We just have to deal with them and move on. I’m thankful for the new mercies the Lord gives us daily. Let’s continue to grow in our love of others and mostly our love for God. Blessings to each of you.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Never Forsaken

March 24, 2025March 24, 2025Leave a Comment

Yesterday I was in awe at how God works. Waking early, I had time in prayer and tuned in to our early church service via blue tooth tech oncology so I could try to listen while getting ready for church. I usually do this to see if I can “follow” Pastor with my Advanced Bionics Marvel cochlear implant processor. I was pleasantly surprised to be able to follow the sermon. Of course I didn’t get it all but I got enough to know it was a powerful Word and we were attending the second service in person. Add a sign language interpreter, and all the pieces I missed came together.

My friend who was interpreting asked me before service how I was doing. She had read my last blog and we had texted during the week so she knew it had been a rough week. I told her I had listened to the first service and didn’t want to cry during the second one. She understood. The thing is, while I had listened to the first service I missed the fact Pastor wasn’t feeling well as he was preaching. He had been experiencing vertigo and was advised by more than one doctor not to preach. However, Pastor was determined to “deliver” the Word of God! And “Deliver it”, he surely did. Talking about an example of perseverance!

What really hit home for me is that he somewhat “echoed” what another friend had texted me earlier in the week. (I shared this in my last blog so go back and read it if you’d like.). God is with me, no matter what I’m feeling or experiencing. I am never alone! As I listened to part of the service a third time this morning, I thought I heard him mentioned 2 Corinthians 4 so I paused the message to go look up that chapter. This verse stood out to me: “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭(ESV‬‬) Ok Lord, I hear You!

I scrolled back up a few verses and Bingo, I believe he touched on the following scripture. “But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. For we who live are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you.” 2Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬-‭12‬ ‭(ESV‬‬) This passage of scripture made me cry. I feel this often. Pressed on every side but God!

This past week I’m not sure why it was so “rough” but God understands even though others can’t quite grasp it, and for the most part, not many try. I’m not complaining, just being real. Pastor also mentioned we can’t really fully understand what another is going through: miscarriage, divorce, etc.unless we ourselves go through it.

Yesterday was like a “healing balm” as the Lord showed me, He has not forsaken me. He has not left me alone. He knows every hurt, every thought and every feeling. I’m beyond thankful to the Lord and for His servant Pastor Livingston, who though he was weak with vertigo yesterday, he was determined to deliver the Word God had given him. We too can be determined to press through our momentary afflictions. God has us. He will never let us down. He will strengthen us to rise up yet again.

God gave me another beautiful reminder of His love yesterday. We had returned home from church and having lunch. I decided to go out on the deck since it was a beautiful day, even with the pollen coating everything. I had been out for maybe 20 minutes when Ron came out to let me know some friends were at our house. We had not seen them in quite a while. They stopped by because Trish had bought me a shirt and on the front of the shirt it said in sign language “Jesus Loves You”. I was so touched at her gift and God message to me again! I am loved! God is with me! He won’t let me down! Trish and her husband Billy came around 3;30 pm and went home around 8:30 pm. God also used them to minister to another friend who came by. God is so faithful!!

Thinking back on this last week I see it was God carrying me. I had shared with Ron my feelings of sadness and being overwhelmed even though I press though. I don’t “show the world” my daily struggles. I can’t control people, make others care or control situations. However, I can control my response. I can pray for discernment to know how to tread through “tricky situations”, and so I do. You can too.

Many are going through trying things but let me remind you, you are never alone. God carries you when you are too physically or emotionally tired to move forward. God will carry you! You are not forgotten. Press through this week and be a blessing regardless of your situations. Pray for each other and spread encouragement and words of life. You are loved! You are not forsaken! Be blessed.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Surely Goodness

March 2, 20252 Comments

Me and my brother Forrest many years ago on Easter.

Today four generations sat to hear my nephew Justin preach. Four generation; the youngest being my three year old great niece sitting with her Mommy to hear her Daddy preach and the oldest, her two great Grandmas (GG and Maw Maw) I won’t give their ages away My Mom who is also Grandma and GG Great grandma interpreted for me. And let me tell you for an 82 year old (oops, there her age) she did quite well. Justin began with Psalms 23 and the fact that God’s goodness and mercy pursue our family daily, did not escape my attention. He shared that before David wrote Psalms 23, King Saul had tried to kill him. David was running for his life. Yet Psalms 23 is one of the most encouraging and peace-filled scriptures.This shows us that even though David was running for his life from King Saul, he still proclaimed The LORD as his Shepherd! David wrote of God’s provision even in the valley of the shallow of death. David wrote Surely goodness and mercy follow me all the days of my life. See Psalms 23.

Yesterday we celebrated Mom’s 82 birthday. It was a fun time with all my brother Forrest family and his grandkiddos. Truth be told, in family situations, although I love being there, I only comprehend a small part of what’s said. The overlap of voices makes it hard for me to follow conversations. However, I loved watching the little ones. It reminded me how much Jesus loves children. Jesus said in Matthew 19:14, “but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”” (ESV‬‬) Also check out Jesus words in Matthew 18:3, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” ‬ ‭(ESV‬‬) These things went through my mind as I watched the little ones play. The oldest 3 and youngest almost 8 months. Their joy, laughter and innocence ~ God wants us to be like that. Not weighed down by the cares of the world, rather to trust our Heavenly Father and find joy in Him.

As we were taking Mom home last night, she mentioned Justin was preaching today and she was planning to go. My husband Ron asked me if we could take her and I agreed. I woke up early to have some time in prayer before we needed to get ready. As I prayed I told God, “Lord you know I won’t be able to hear him well. Help me get something out of the service. Help me understand something.” When we arrived Mom offered to sign for me. That’s a pretty big accomplishment for an 82 year old to sign a whole service when she doesn’t sign much. She did a get job keeping up with Justin, who did an amazing job sharing God’s Word.

As we sat on the second row, I thought of all our family has and continues to go through; my visual and hearing gradual loss, God’s faithfulness through it all, my Dad’s fight with cancer,, my brother Forrest fight with acute leukemia, God’s faithless, God allowing me to be a perfect match bone marrow donor for his transplant in August 2020, God’s faithfulness, Forrest is 4 1/2 years post transplant and doing great! He and his wife now have four grandchildren and it brings such joy to my heart watching them enjoy these precious blessings. We still have struggles. Our son Joshua voluntarily stopped driving this past year, feeling his vision wasn’t good enough. That showed tremendous maturity. We all continue to trust God with our visual and hearing issues. But you know what, God’s goodness and mercy continues to pursue us every single day of our lives. The last song of the service today rang so true ~ All my life you have been faithful. All my life You have been so so good. With every breath that I am able. I will sing of the goodness of God. Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me. Your goodness is running after,it’s running after me. With my heart laid down, I surrender now, I give you everything….. Your goodness is running after, it’s running after me

Whatever you are facing in life, you can depend on God’s faithfulness. Life doesn’t always go the way we think, but He is always faithful and always gets the last word. He’s pursuing us daily with goodness and mercy. Imagine goodness and mercy constantly following you. That’s what God does. Be encouraged! Whatever God brings you to, He will bring you through it. Hold on to Him and thank Him for His goodness and mercy.