#reallife – Page 3 – rootedbythewater.blog

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!

Www.shannonkhinson.com

It’s ok to “slip away”

April 21, 2026Leave a Comment

Sometimes in life we get pressed from every side and need some “down time’. Years ago there was a chewing gum commercial jingle that said “When you need a little lift but you just can’t take a break, chew Wringleys spearmint gum”. Oh…. the things I remember back when I could hear well. But seriously, sometime we do need a “little lift” in life.

For me, I feel the tension through my shoulders throughout the day as I deal with ‘life” with vision and hearing issues. The attempts to see what I can, to see where I’m going in unfamiliar places, not missing steps, crossing steers and so on, and the constant need to understand speech with my cochlear implant processor. It can be a lot. What can I do when I need that ‘little lift” but “can’t take a break from life”? Honestly, I will go to my bedroom and lay down with a good book to unwind. Speaking of which, I recently started a new book that I borrowed from the library app. The thing is, the largest font on the app was not quite large enough to comfortably read it. I checked Apple Books app and saw the book there with adjustable font so I could actually enjoy the book. Oh the things I have to do. Sometimes I sip out on the back porch to pray and mediate on God’s Word. I have to be conscious to relax my shoulders and breathe. I’ve told the Lord I’d like to go far away by myself and sit on a beach: just me, myself and I. To soak in the warmth of the sunshine and ocean breeze. But alas, I’m stuck. Just have to learn to “let it roll”. Let the tension go.

As I was praying this morning I just poured out “life struggles” to the Lord What amazed me is when I finished praying I opened my Bible app and a new seven day reading plan was on the screen. I thought, “Okay, let’s take a look at this.” It was about the widow and Elisha in 2 Kings 4:1-7. The widow had a lot of problems coming at her and she asked Elisha for his help. He asked her what she had inside. He gave her practical instructions to use the oil she had to pour into empty vessels. This made me think, what do I have? How can I use what God has already given me to pour into “vessels”. What about you? What do you have that could possibly be multiplied to pour into others? For me, it could possibly be my writing, encouraging others and serving my family. One thing about serving others, whether it’s through writing blogs, sending encouraging text or commenting on posts, it takes the focus off yourself and seeks to uplift another. In so doing, you end up uplifted yourself.

In seasons of trials, because sometimes it is a SEASON. We have to be mindful to “bloom” in that hard places. Smile anyway! Serve anyway! Write anyway! Use what you have to the best of your ability then release it to God and allow Him to use it for His glory. At the end of the day, that is a day well lived, even in the midst of struggles. God is with us. 2 Timothy 1;7 says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love and of a sound mind (NKJV) Let’s be mindful to grasp on to the power, love and sound mind that God gives us. We are equipped for every good work. Press forward! It’s a new day with new mercies. Be blessed.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Finding Hope

April 16, 2026Leave a Comment

Let’s be honest, life’s “waves” of trials, difficulties, despair… you name it… often crash and we are left “storm weary”. Where do you find hope that thrives? Where do you find hope that anchors you despite circumstances? Personally, I find my hope in God’s unchanging character. Our emotions and circumstances are like the wind, always changing but God’s steadfast faithfulness is an unwavering fact. We can trust God. He has proven Himself throughout the Bible and in my own life, to be a firm foundation that anchors me.

A healthy change in perspective is so helpful. We must learn to take our focus off the present trials and instead focus on the God of Hope, who is trustworthy and so faithful. He has a “bird eye view” while we just have “tunnel vision”. What I mean is, He sees the BIG picture of our life, while we just see a little bit of it.

There is much wisdom in looking beyond our circumstances and trusting God with the future. What would it take to look through the “lens” of eternity, rather than the here and now? Romans 8:18 says, “Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later.” (NLT‬‬) To live with eternity in view is to live with hope.

Let’s face it, often times life just doesn’t make sense. We need to see our trials from a positive point of view. Trials refine us and help us to grow. They have a tendency to smooth out the rough patches in our character so that we are more Christ – like.

We all can occasionally get worked up about our trials and situations. I sure do get a chuckle out of Ecclesiastes 1:2 that says ““Everything is meaningless,” says the Teacher, “completely meaningless! (NLT‬‬) If I look at life in hindsight I’d agree. Like the grass of the fields, we are here today and gone tomorrow. Our momentary trials are but a vapor, here for a little while then they vanish. We see this in James 1:14 which says, “whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” (NKJV‬‬)

Choosing to live with hope is not ignoring the present painful situations, but rather choosing to look beyond the trials to see what’s coming. Just like the sun that rises every morning, sometimes there are clouds and fog hiding the sun, but it’s still there, just temporarily out of view. Look beyond the trials (clouds) to see God’s promises. Lamentations 3;21-23 is so encouraging to me. “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭21‬-‭23‬ (ESV‬‬)

In true Shannon fashion, a worship song comes to mind. Still by Hillsong Worship (2003) would illustrate this blog well. I will try to find the music video to attach below. Part of the song says, “when the oceans rise and thunders roar, I will soar with You above the storm. Father you are King over the flood. I will be still and know that You are God”. That is what I call hope: being still and trusting God is with us. The eternal God is walking with us through our temporary trials. Let’s trust Him. He is our anchor of Hope. He is faithful. Be blessed.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

https://youtu.be/_n6dfB2Z-Ko?si=ltgyl1qFfnmj0E0r

57 things I’ve learned in 57 years

April 13, 20262 Comments

Since this is my birthday week, here are 57 nuggets of truth I’ve learned in 57 years.

1 ~ Live in the present. It’s a gift.
2 ~ Laugh at your shortcomings.
3 ~ Never stop learning.
4 ~ God is good always, despite the hard things.
5 ~ Don’t go to bed angry. Work it out before you go to sleep.
6 ~ problem solving is an essential life skill. It might be tough but it’s worth the effort.
7 ~ Invest time in your family. They are a treasure.
8 ~ Bloom where you’re planted.
9~ Any beach is my favorite. Just give me sand, waves, and the ocean breeze and I’m a happy girl.
10~ Nothing compares to a Mother’s heart for her children.
11~ Don’t take things for granted. They won’t last forever.
12~ Girls, start a skin care routine early in life. It makes a huge difference (You’ll see.)
13 ~ Forgive freely because God forgives us when we ask.
14 ~ It never hurts to ask, as long as it’s done nicely.
15 ~ The Heavens declare the glory of the Lord!
16 ~ It’s ok to cry. Tears cleanse you of built up emotions.
17~ First impressions last. Make it count.
18~ Words build up or tear down. Choose them carefully.
19 ~ Don’t take life too seriously. It’s a vapor, here today and gone tomorrow.
20 ~ You’re never too old to swing.
21 ~ Smile! It brightens a room!
22 ~ Music is delightful!
23 ~ Kind people make the world more beautiful!
24 ~ Ladies, don’t be afraid of gray hair. Going natural is liberating.
25 ~ A relationship with Jesus is the most important thing.
26 ~ Helping others helps take the focus off yourself.
27 ~ Friends come and friends go. Be thankful for them.
28 ~ Learning to control your tongue is vital.
29 ~ Drop your pride and apologize.
30 ~ Don’t hold a grudge.
31 ~ The Bible is our roadmap for life. Read and mediate on it.
32 ~ Make time for fun, the chores will still be there tomorrow.
33~ Motion is lotion. (I read that line in an awesome book Theo of Golden) So true!
34 ~ It’s more blessed to give than to receive.
35 ~ Marriage is worth fighting for. Roll up your sleeves and work out the hard things. So worth it.
36 ~ Never be afraid to ask for help.
37 ~ Starting your day in prayer and reading the Bible sets the course for a better day.
38 ~ Money does not make people happy.
39 ~ There is much joy found in watching things grow.
40 ~ Your child is always your child no matter what age they are.
41 ~ self examination is important. What do I need to improve?
42 ~ The past is over. Leave it there. Learn from it and move forward.
43 ~ God is the BEST artist. Just look at all He created. It’s a Marvel!!!
44 ~ You are never too old to start a new hobby.
45 ~ Don’t worry about what people think. Trust me, it doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of life.
46 ~ You are one of a kind. Embrace your uniqueness.
47 ~ Common sense is wonderful! Use it!
48 ~ You have to take care of Yourself before you can take care of others.
49 ~ Humility is a beautiful thing.
50 ~ A listening ear is a rare find.
51 ~ “Labels” might be a diagnostic tool but don’t let them define you.
52 ~ You can do hard things.
53 ~ Something may be hard but TRY ANYWAY. You might just surprise yourself.
54 ~ Always be prepared. Backup plans are wise.
55 ~ Don’t sweat the small things.
56 ~ This too shall pass.
57 ~ Let it roll! Sometimes people are just having a bad day. Let it go. No reason to ruffle your feathers.

Here’s to the next “trip around the sun”

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Don’t despise small beginnings.

March 25, 2026Leave a Comment

Right now I’m sitting on our back porch for my quiet time with the Lord. I had thought about not blogging this week, taking a break but this dropped in my heart. I aim to be obedient when the Holy Spirit drops something in my heart. My thoughts are a swirl of Spring, regrowth, rising up “yet again” , resilience and persevering for the glory of God.

The worship song Goodness of God (I don’t see how to underline that) was just playing in my head. I decided to find it on my iPad. As I started to sign the song in ASL (American Sign Language) our silly gran-pup thought my hands were a moving target game for him and He was trying to nibble my fingers. Nothing like the joy of a dog. That was off topic but a fun little addition so you can envision me blogging.

Now back to the topic —— In every season of life, we have to start somewhere. It’s a very rare moment when it’s not a small beginning. Just like seeds that are planted, we go through those small insignificant moments of isolated darkness as we grow up for the glory of God. For me, I just try to be obedient in whatever situation I’m in. Quite often it feels insignificant and unseen, but God sees me. That’s all that’s important.

So many things can seem like a “planting”. Sort of like a new start, a replant or even transplant. Last week I had to have a new “mapping” for my cochlear implant processor. That is sort of like reprogramming the processor that attaches magnetically to my head to the internal implanted device. For some reason that we don’t understand.some of the electrodes (there are 15) that are implanted in my brain were giving me some issues. Sounds were more “sharp” and bothered me like “fingernails going down a chalk board” kind of effect. My audiologist is amazing. She made adjustments so once again I’m having to transition and it makes me very tired. My husband Ron is really the only one that sees how this affects me. It can take a couple of months for my brain to adjust but I’m working on it and trying to balance out social life so I don’t get too drained. It’s a “replant” of sorts. My audiologist makes the changes (kind of like a replant) and I try in vain to bloom with it. 😂 (an emoji is suitable here)

Last night I was drained again. As I studied my notes for tonight’s devotion, I prayed, “Lord will I always be invisible?” My problems are unseen. My low vision can be somewhat hidden, mostly because of stubbornness to push through. My hearing impairment can also be hidden. My speech is pretty good so it doesn’t “give away” the hint of hearing loss. Combined the two issues together and it can really be a doozy, especially with a new cochlear implant processor”Map”.

Yesterday my 83 year old Mom and I went to hear my brother speak at the Novant Cancer Center. He is five and a half years post bone marrow transplant. Praise God he is doing so well. He spoke on his journey, his amazing wife’s strength, God’s provision and healing through the wonders of medicine. He spoke over the staff there, telling them they were like God’s angels as they cared for the patients. It was a beautiful thing. Mom signed a little bit of it so I could basically follow. The thing was, we had to find my brother and hie wife before it started. My Mom was driving (I can’t see well enough to drive) and she put the address in her gps then decided to go another way. So the entire time the gps was telling us to go in a different direction. 🤪 (another suitable occasion for an emoji) We get to the parking deck and didn’t know where to go. Seeing a flight of stairs we went that way. Up several flights, I turned to Mom and said, “Wait here, I’m going to see what’s up there”. So glad I did because it just led to the upper parking deck. Now the thing is, I detest flights of concrete stairs Low vision and flights of stairs don’t go hand in hand. I can’t tell you how many times I have missed a stair while going down. Going up in fine, down, not so much. But I was not going to let my elderly Mom go up all those stairs. We walked across the parking deck towards the “light” (outside). I’m like, “Lord help me not to fall in this parking deck”. We made it (I never mentioned any of this to Mom) went in and supported my brother. When I got home I was so tired. I made dinner, studied for tonight and went to bed. Moral of the story, everyone you see might be struggling with an “unseen” issue. Be mindful of that. Always be open to hearing others situations and needs in a loving way. Always bloom in whatever situation you are in. It’s not about us as individuals but about giving God glory in whatever situation we find ourselves in. In order to bloom we have to watch our attitudes, face expressions, cover whatever it is in prayer and step forward in faith that God is with us every step of the way.

One last thing: last night as I was checking e mails and also the junk email file I saw an intriguing email from a professor. He had found my book Rooted by the water by looking for stories of resilience. Interesting thing is he wanted to know what I have done for exposure for my book. He said it has a 4.6 rating on Goodreads but only 11 reviews. I’m not on Goodreads so I have no clue. I haven’t responded to his e mail. If you knew how many scam emails come through weekly regarding my book, it would blow your mind. That was what I was actually doing last night, deleting potential scammers. This morning a trusted family friend (actually my aunts sister) told me to try a certain app, saying that perhaps it would help with exposure. She said my words needed to be exposed. I’ll take her word for it. I just write what God gives me and “hit publish”. The small beginning started with social media posts, then my autobiography Rooted by the Water , then on to blogging. The audience has been interesting with blogging. It evidently trickles around the world with a few views here and there world wide. It is very interesting to see the map and the country names. So often as I look at it you could hear me say, “This is so weird”. Just being honest. I’m just a hearing and visually impaired woman speaking life into others, advocating for those who might need it and spreading God’s truth. It’s a small beginning but the rewards come in Heaven. If you have read my book, please consider writing a review. It could be on Amazon or Goodreads. (I wasn’t’ aware I was on that.) I would love to somehow get into the library system but have no clue how to go about doing that. I personally read ebooks off Hoopla library app because it’s a way I can see them, zooming the font on my iPad. If you know how to go about entering a recommended book, please reach out.

Wherever you are, whatever the situation don’t despise the small beginnings. God sees you! That’s all that matters. Pray for one another. Be mindful of others issues. Speak LIFE! I say it again… speak LIFE over people and others situations. God bless you all! Now let’s spring into this Spring day. I’ve got to study some more for tonight’s devotion. This teaching never gets easy. Lord take the wheel!! Stepping forward in Faith, knowing God is with us all! Be blessed.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Matters of the Heart

March 18, 2026Leave a Comment

Once again I’m prepping for tonight’s devotion. It’s my hearts desire that the “Word” takes root in such a way that when I stand in front of the homeless people that God’s Word flows. Tonight I am going to share about Jesus’ parable of the Farmer sowing seed. As I have meditated on this it seems such a matter of the heart.

What’s in our heart is so important. For example, whatever is in your heart, your mouth speaks. (Matthew12:34) The Bible also tells us to guard our hearts above all else, because it determines the course of our lives. (See Proverbs 4:23). As I’ve thought deeply on matters of the heart, I realize that over time our hearts can become incrusted with hardness due to hurts, un-forgiveness, bitterness and struggles. I know someone who as a child and youth had such a tender heart. However hurt after hurt, accident after accident, witnessing a tragic accident, health issues, and relationship issues…. You get the “Picture” ….has developed a hardness over that once tender heart. I’ve witness that “wall” being torn down as well. Glory to God! This is a real life illustration. This “matter of the heart” sets the stage for how I see this parable of the sower found in Mark 4:1-20. (Tonight I plan to summarize it because with low vision I’m not going to read 20 verses in front of a group of people.)

Here is my summary –

Jesus is once again teaching a large crowd of people on the lake shore. He got into a boat, sat down and began to teach them by telling stories called parables.

A farmer went out to plant some seed. As he scattered it in his field some fell along the footpath and birds came and ate it. Other seeds fell on shallow soil that had underlying rock, It sprouted quickly because of the shallow soil but the plants wilted and died under the sun because the plants lacked deep roots due to the underlying rock. Other seed fell among the thorns that grew up and choked the plants so that it didn’t produce any grain. Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, that sprouted and grew and produced a harvest, 30,60 and even 100 times as much as was planted. Anyone with ears, let him hear and understand.

Later Jesus explained the story to his disciples. The seed is the “Word of God” shared with people. The seed that fell on the footpath, as soon as the people hear the Word of God, satan snatches it away. The seed that fell on the rocky soil, represent those that hear the Word, receive it immediately with joy, but since they lack deep roots they fall away when problems come in life and they are persecuted. The seed that fell among the thorns represents people who hear God’s Word but all too quickly the cares of this life, desire for wealth, and other things crowd it out so it doesn’t produce fruit. Cares of this life can be many thing: over concern about what people think about you and your situation. The cares could be getting ahead and doing more, living for yourself etc. Cares of life are just that, things that burden you and distract you from what’s really important. The seed that fell on good soil are the people who receive God’s Word accepting it and it produces a harvest 30, 60, and 100 times more than what was planted.

Let’s make some connections. Do you understand what spiritual fruit is? Galatians 5:22-23 tells us, “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!” (NLT‬‬)

Let’s make a couple more connections here. Our hearts are like the soil. Our hearts need to be ready to accept and apply God’s message to our lives. Sometimes when we are listening to a message or reading God’s Word (the Bible), our minds are on other things or problems and we don’t really gleam from the message. We need to ask God to help us prepare our hearts so we can receive His Word and produce a harvest for His Glory. I have thought about this illustration in the past of checking in your “baggage” at the door before you come in to church, your bible study or fellowship time. What I mean is, when we come in with a heart uncluttered and weighed down with life “baggage” struggles, worries, problems then we are more likely to receive the life transforming Word of God. So let’s check in our “life baggage”, leaving it at the Lord’s feet so we can truly receive.

I often pray “create in me a clean heart, O God and renew a right spirit within me”. David wrote and prayed that in Psalms 51:10. Let us learn from this mighty man after God’s own heart, and ask God to cleanse us and prepare the “soil” of our hearts to receive His Word so we will produce fruit for His Glory!

Be blessed today and pray as I share this with the people tonight.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

We need more Trail Blazers

March 16, 2026Leave a Comment

For some reason the word “Trail Blazer” popped in my head this afternoon. I can just hear a friend of mine saying, “Girl, you’re thinking too deeply”. Maybe so, but sometimes deep thinking is needed. A trail blazer is a pioneer who sets the way to guide others, possibly in uncharted territory. I’m not talking about physical land, rather I’m talking about being a light for others experiencing darkness. Whether that darkness is social barriers, communication barriers or spiritual barriers. We need people willing to go the “extra mile” to serve others. People who are willing to get out of their comfort zone to help others around them. I do this on Wednesday nights when I share a devotion with people from the homeless shelter. Is it comfortable for me? No but I know God works in our weaknesses if we will surrender. I’ll tell you the truth, it’s a very rewarding experience and it’s never easy doing it.

I heard recently that only 2% of deaf people know Jesus. That is astounding!!! Of all the churches I know of only one has a program for the hearing impaired where they provide sign language interpreters. That same church also provides translations into other languages. It is truly amazing. I’d say, they are Trail Blazers in sharing the Gospel among various languages. It would be nice to see other churches do the same. I have a friend whose family has been attending a church in South Carolina for years. There are no services for her at her church. She has to see it on social media closed captioned in order to receive the message. Church is not only for worship and teaching of the Word of God. It is also for fellowship. Social media is not fellowship. If you are a Pastor or in church leadership and you have someone in your congregation needing special help, go the “extra mile” to provide what is needed for them to participate in the worship service. Some might say, “it’s never been done”. Perhaps so, but perhaps the need is something that is new. Many people won’t speak up and advocate for their needs. It is completely fine to say, “Hey is there anything you can do to help?” Sometimes you have to push a bit but remember only 2% of deaf people are Christians. That is a HUGE population that can be and needs to be reached for the Glory of God!!!

Now on to a different need. There are many people in our communities that need encouragement, prayer, a helping hand etc. It could be the elderly, widows, single mom’s struggling to raise their kids, the homeless. So many people could benefit from someone going out of their way, getting out of their own comfort zone to be a blessing. There is an amazing organization that helps us on Wednesday nights. I’m not sure of the exact name but it’s young men and their moms that show up to help serve the food at the homeless shelter. They are such a blessing. I’m not sure where all they serve but it could be in many places.

In our present culture people are so “sucked in” to their phones, tablets and computers. We need to encourage each other to put those devices aside and interact with people around us. Many young people need mentors that help them to learn social skills. Our children are a valuable blessing to us and they should be protected from worldly ideologies and mentored to serve others and solve problems.

We need people who actually want to get involved and not just sit on the “side lines” as a spectator of the Gospel. The mission field is huge and just needs people who are willing to be the “hands and feet of Jesus”.

Do you see why “Trail Blazers” popped in my head today? There are so many areas of need. Sometimes we need to speak up in a nice respectful way, to “plant some ideas” of things that would be worth the hassle of doing them. It never hurts to ask nicely. It never hurts to try something new that’s maybe never been done in your organization, that would benefit others. It never hurts to serve , as a matter of fact it will bless you beyond your imagination. So… what will you do with this? I know this blog is read in countries around the world. This applies to anyone, anywhere. What will you do with this? Who will you serve? Who will you help? Who will you share the Gospel with? I think you get the idea. Now go and be a blessing and I guarantee you will be so blessed in return.

Www.shannonkhinson.com

Dual Birthday

March 12, 2026Leave a Comment

My husband Ron (top) and my Dad (sitting) about 12 years ago.

March 12 changed forever five years ago. Ever since then, it’s been a “dual” birthday: Ron’s earthly birthday and Dad’s Heavenly birthday. It’s a bittersweet celebration ever since Dad passed away. We did go out for an early lunch with my Mom today to celebrate Ron’s birthday, before our son Joshua had to be at work. Ron’s reached an age where he would like to stop counting the years, which is fine, but I told him we were going to celebrate. And so we did and will likely again for a late late birthday dinner. The man needs a slice of cake!

I text my brother this morning as I knew he’d be thinking about Dad too. We had an amazing Dad who was always there for us. I wish he could see us now. Five years later, Forrest is thriving after a successful bone marrow transplant. ( Dad passed a little over six months after the transplant) Dad would be so proud of Mom and how strong she is. Wow! She is a remarkable lady and living life the best way she can, leaning on the Lord. Dad would be in awe of the great grandchildren that have arrived since his passing. I hope Heaven has a “window” where he can take a look and smile. I think he’d be in awe that Forrest is now a Pastor on staff at his church and I’m teaching the weekly devotion at the homeless shelter each Wednesday. He would also be so proud of his grandchildren: Justin, Lauren and Joshua, each living the life God has for them. He’d be so happy to know Joshua chose to be baptized last month and is reading his Bible. God is good and so so faithful. He’d also be happy the Kenley Christmas gathering continues at Jefrey’s each year. Dad always enjoyed time with family. We sure do miss him. The tulip tree we planted in his honor five years ago is in full bloom. It blooms each year around his “home going”.

Ron told me not to mention his birthday on social media and I honored his wishes but he didn’t say I couldn’t mention it in my blog. He’s not one who seeks attention but we celebrate him today~ Happy 60 “something” birthday Ron! We love you and Happy Heavenly birthday Dad! We miss you! Hug your loved ones and celebrate them well. Family is priceless!