tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71579222798523972192024-02-19T08:07:57.242-08:00 Before I go Home...As I ponder the world these days and think about what the future holds, I am amazed at the long-suffering of the Almighty God. He holds in His hand the very thread which will cause the world to unravel, yet He waits until the last has come to Him before He gives a swift pull and gathers all of His family to Himself. That day is coming but until then, there is work to be done.
So, before I go Home...C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-50220613541880501372020-04-11T15:52:00.000-07:002020-04-12T09:20:28.032-07:00Solitude<div>
How many times have we hoped for more time to spend either in prayer, in the Word or both? I know I always <i>feel</i> like I never have enough time to dedicate to real in-depth study or prayer. It is usually 20 mins here, 30 mins there. Doing BSF, I set aside an hour once or twice a week to get my lesson and children's prep done, but it isn't extra time to just pour myself into wherever God would lead. </div>
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I listen to Skip Heitzig every morning on my way to work and he is currently teaching with the COVID situation in view. His lessons have been about Biblical quarantines, abiding by the authoritative decisions of our government and the idea of time alone with God. This made me think about all the people who are currently sequestered in their homes. One of the women in my BSF group mentioned that she has divided the Bible into 21 sections (based on the number of days that our state has declared "shelter in place") and is focused on reading through the Bible in that time. She said it takes her about 2 hours every day to read each section and she is having a blessed time. Wow! What a great idea!</div>
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I am not sequestered at home. Work for me is still Monday-Friday 40 hours per week. Part of me wishes that I was one of the ones laid off so I could spend that precious time with the Lord. But <i>would</i> I? I have time that <i>could</i> be set aside for more study or prayer, but I don't. When I have a<i> free </i>day, I usually plan projects. But do I ever plan 1 or 2 hours to just be with the Lord? Rarely. <br />
Are you sequestered at home? If so, how are you spending your time? Pastor Heitzig reminded his listeners of the time that Jesus spent in the wilderness and that Paul, prior to starting his ministry went to Arabia for some time to prepare for the Lord's work. As well, Jesus broke away from the crowds on many occasions to be alone with his Father. What great examples of the need for and the importance of solitude. So, if you are faced with solitude, be thankful and seek the Lord's plan for that time. You know He has one and it is probably filled with doing more than cleaning, painting, reading a novel or watching TV. <br />
If you are like me and are blessed with the opportunity to still be working, it doesn't allow us an excuse to ignore the need for solitude. We need to MAKE that time happen. Today, I took my dogs for a long walk then went fishing in a snowstorm! It was a great day spending time alone with my heavenly Father. As the world get crazier and crazier, quiet time with the Lord is ever more so important. How will you make that time today?</div>
C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-33487203387230254062020-03-27T19:14:00.000-07:002020-03-28T19:33:58.257-07:002020 What immediately comes to mind when you hear the words "Twenty-twenty"? Is it the year we are currently living in? The idea of "hindsight"? Or "perfect" vision? The other day, I heard a pastor talking about "2020" and our relationship with God and I thought that was a profound thing to consider. The year of 2020 may just be the year to have <em>hindsight</em> that is 2020, to give us 2020 <em>vision</em>!<br />
For me, the year has been off to a rather difficult start. Nothing major, but I have been busy with work, challenged by life, and overall, a little tired in my Christian walk. (You may have noticed that in my posts since January.) Anyhow, I do truly feel that the Lord is prompting me to a deeper walk with Him and I think that is one of the things that makes me tired: The idea of going deeper. Especially now, with the COVID concerns and the havoc that it has caused in my work life, I find myself even more consumed with the daily things, therefore even more tired. What a better time for God to ask me /us to go deeper. Will it be spiritually beneficial? Of course! But NOW?<br />
It makes me think of the movie U-571. The movie is about a submarine in our Navy during WWII. The scene I recall is when there is a big galley fire and it is at this time that the captain decides to have an emergency drill. Another officer questions his timing and he responds that this is the PERFECT time to test the crew; that they need to be pushed to their limits when it<em> isn't</em> a true emergency so they will be ready for the <em>real</em> emergency. Of course, his philosophy proves true in the movie and the crew is successful in the real crisis. God is so very wise and when I am tired, He pushes me beyond my tiredness. <br />
How does this correlate to my topic? In the year 2020, I feel that we, as Christians, need to seriously depend on our <em>hindsight</em> to help us have the proper <em>sight</em> for what is coming. In the midst of chaos, more chaos will come and we need to be ready. We need to look to the past miracles God has performed in our lives (and you know He has performed them; big and little) to remind us of His power and sovereignty not only in <em>our</em> lives but in the world. In order for us to see through the chaos, we need to have a good vision and that only comes from being in a VERY close relationship with Him. That takes time and energy. So tired or not, it is what I/we should do. Go deeper and gain better vision because I believe 2020 will require it. <br />
C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-48270630725391074592020-03-15T16:48:00.000-07:002020-03-15T16:48:29.498-07:00Are You Stocking Up? I was AMAZED when I stopped at the store today after church. The empty shelves were shocking to me. No meat, eggs, frozen veggies, bread and the list goes on. We were there for a corned beef brisket, cabbage and some Brussel sprouts. Just usual stuff. Living in N. Idaho has trained us to live in a prepared state in the event of a power outage during the winter months so in the event we really were to have a crisis, we would be prepared. Between the COVID 19 panic, the current study of 1st Corinthians in BSF and the series at church the last few weeks, I started considering what makes me feel secure.<br />
Knowing that my pantry is stocked with reserves, having wood for the winter to keep the fire going, having the security of a husband who will protect me and a good job that helps to pay the bills all add up to security. These things bring me comfort. What if all of it were lost? How secure would I feel then? An aqauintance of mine lost all that she had in a house fire 3 weeks ago. The house burned to the ground and she and her husband got out with the clothes in their backs. Every time I put on makeup, or go to the fridge for a snack or look at a picture on the wall, I think about the things that I take for granted, daily. True, she will have a home and belongings again but in an instant, she lost 30 years of precious memories.<br />
The panic over COVID 19 has closed schools in our area and therefore may limit the staff I have to fill positions at work. As well, the threat may cause clients to postpone scheduling appointments. Will I <i>have</i> a job in 4 weeks from now? Most likely I will. But, the thought of these things has me looking to Jesus for the eternal comfort only He can provide. The concerns on this earth, even when overwhelming, are completely in God's control and under His power. Because I am His child, even when I die I will be raised again in a glorified body to live eternally in heaven with Jesus. WOW!! The reality of that has a new perspective for me.<br />
One thing that has most importantly been highlighted in this current world situation is the obvious fear or anxiety that people <i>are</i> feeling. Do they know the comfort of Jesus? I would suspect not. Maybe they do when things are good, but now they have allowed the fear to override their trust in the Lord. Either way, isn't it my responsibility to offer comfort where I can by sharing the truth of the Gospel? Stocking up on food and household supplies may not be a bad idea in general, for the potential of any catastrophy, but stocking up on the Word of Jesus is the only true security that we can experience. If you are worrisome, will you stock up on Jesus today? And if you are calm amidst the confusion, maybe you know someone who could use some of your Jesus "reserves". C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-88929560529163096532020-03-03T21:30:00.000-08:002020-03-03T21:30:02.138-08:00The Joy of Victory!<div>
Have you ever before experienced the joy of victory? Victory in a sport that you have participated in, or in the success of reconciliation in a relationship, or in accomplishing a very difficult task that has been set before you? The flavor of victory does taste quite good, doesn't it! It is satisfying, comforting and ultimately edifying. Victory in the right things can be very healthy for body, mind and spirit. </div>
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Last night at BSF, my co-leader asked the question, "How does obeying God bring joy?". The 11 and 12 year old students had a variety of answers, many of which were very insightful. The question prior to this one was, "Why do God's children still sin?". As the students discussed the "struggle" with sin, it made me consider that it really is a "battle" when we are tempted with sinful thoughts and behaviors. To look at the temptation to sin as an actual battle with our flesh, the world or the enemy, completely helped me to answer the first question! When we are obedient to the Lord, which includes facing those temptations and being obedient in them, we are victors! Victors in the battle that we just faced and conquered. This may be extremely obvious to some of you, but for some reason it really struck me last night. </div>
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Maybe that is because I have been feeling quite defeated over the past few months in regards to a sinful habit with which I have been struggling. Sinful because I know this habit may be allowable for others, but not for me. This bad habit has taken over my attitude and has stolen my joy. The realization hit me last night, that I have lost my joy more because of a loss of victory rather than frustration over the defeat of the sin. Maybe I am picking fly poop out of pepper here, but for whatever reason, the spin on this loss of joy has helped me to view this situation from a completely different perspective. Rather than looking at how hard it is to defeat this temptation, I am looking forward to the joy that comes from the victory of the battle. </div>
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Maybe you need a different perspective. It may make all the difference in the world! </div>
C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-4574545765228243962020-02-24T22:07:00.000-08:002020-02-24T22:07:00.621-08:00Not My Usual StyleHello Readers,<br />
This is not my usual style of post, but I thought that I should share some reality. It is good to think about illustrations and applications that we can apply to our lives, but knowing what makes sense and doing what makes sense aren't always synonymous. I am in God's Word regularly and even teach children how to apply what they are learning, but I have to be honest and admit that I don't always apply those truths to my own life. <br />
I <em>know</em> what God instructs us to do and how to behave, but the challenges of life, our flesh, the enemy and frankly our pride, regularly give us excuses for NOT doing what we <em>know </em>are not only pleasing to Him, but best for us! I am so clearly learning to appreciate the words of Paul in Romans 7: 15-20. (See the "Verses of the week") He struggled with it too, which makes me feel better but I still get so darn frustrated with myself. All of this also makes me understand more clearly why God emphasizes the need to be in prayer and in His Word regularly, to put on the Armor of God and to be aware of the enemy's tactics.<br />
Another thing that I am realizing is why David was called "A Man after God's own heart". David knew the gift of forgiveness and didn't allow sin to separate himself from the Lord. I don't know about you, but I feel dirty after I have knowingly sinned and this in itself can keep me from the feet of Jesus. I need to get some distance from my sin first, then I feel a little more "worthy" of being in the presence of Jesus. How silly is that?! Without Jesus, I am NEVER worthy of anything but death and permanent separation from God. WOW. How messed up we truly are! And most of the time we don't even see it. We just plug away at our little lives, doing our daily duties and considering Jesus a little here and a little there. Amazing.<br />
Well, I feel better. As you can probably guess, I have been feeling a little "dirty" lately and needed to come "clean". This side of heaven, we will live in a soiled condition, but praise God we are made "white as snow" through the blood of Jesus! Carry on fellow brothers and sisters in Christ and remember that you are not walking though this life alone. Jesus is there each step of the way and is oh so very willing to wash our feet when they get a little dirty. <br />
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<span class="text Rom-7-20" id="en-NIV-28112"><sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-28112F" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28112F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup></span><br />
<br />C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-13595051887843032742020-02-16T18:51:00.002-08:002020-02-16T18:51:21.190-08:00Self-Confidence, Lack of Confidence OR God-Confidence? Are you pretty enough? Handsome enough? Smart enough? Talented enough? As you ponder these questions, by whose standards are you making the determination? Your own? Your family's? Your culture's? Or, God's?<br />
Very few people are completely confident in themselves. And if they think that they are, a true test would be for them to lose any component of their lives that gives them that confidence. It may shatter their world. Most people may be confident in certain areas of their lives, but are insecure in other areas. This is normal. The sad part is that we tend to allow the areas of our lives where we are confident and insecure rule our behavior and our attitude. We judge our success by how we <em>feel</em> about that area of our lives. In most cases this is a very skewed viewpoint.<br />
I have struggled with my weight for years. Gaining, losing, gaining, losing. When I am thin, I am confident and when I am not, I am completely insecure. I watched a movie last night that was a real eye-opener for me. The lesson I learned from the movie is that when I am wallowing in self-pity over what the scale says I weigh or over how my jeans fit, I am self-focused and hurting those around me. My husband does not deserve my bad attitude because I feel fat. My employer is paying me to be a confident leader and manager and may receive less than that when I am insecure. My family appreciates spending time with me and is neglected when I become a hermit to avoid the humiliation of being in public. All of these examples are the fallout of insecurity.<br />
Confidence can be just as destructive. People who know they are "all that", know everything or can do everything perfectly can repel people. They are hard to have conversations with, can be pushy in business and frankly are just not that fun to be around. If our confidence is self-confidence, it is not offering glory to the Lord or drawing people to the Truth of the Word. In some areas of my life I am confident and can come across as snobbish. <br />
How does this relate to God? Simple. Whether I am confident or insecure, if I am not basing my determination on God's standards, I am consumed with myself. God made each of us in His image. God gave each of us abilities. When I am insecure in myself, I am neglecting to focus on who I am <em>in Christ</em>. Whether confident or insecure, spend time with God seeking a true picture of who you are in <em>Him</em>! If you are confident in Christ, praise Him!! And carry on the good works that He has prepared for you. If you find that you are confident in yourself, repent then move ahead giving God the glory for the gifts with which He has blessed you as you serve Him. If you struggle with insecurities, repent of those as well and ask God to allow you to see yourself as He sees you. He doesn't look at your failures, your wrinkles or your balding head. He looks at your heart, and so should you. Self-esteem or lack of it, is a tool of the enemy. It gets our focus on ourselves and off Jesus. We need to recognize it as such and be done with it! AMEN? C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-81407326172530980472020-02-09T11:14:00.002-08:002020-02-09T11:14:44.727-08:00Keeping the "Main Thing" the "Main Theme" How many friendships and relationships break apart over petty disagreements? In many cases, it starts out with a small conflict that really is pretty stupid, but pride, frustration and other negative components intrude and then ... BAM, a full-blown fight or argument erupts. If complete resolution never occurs, the burning embers of resentment and bitterness smolder lending to an already lit flame the for next disagreement. This modality is the way of the enemy. He loves this type of negative energy especially when it is among the body of Christ. And even more when the arguments involve Biblical concepts and/or truths. <br />
Earlier this week, I found myself in a discussion that could have led to bitterness. I was among a group of mature and experienced believers. We were discussing the "Rapture" and the Second Coming of Jesus. This wasn't an in-depth conversation, but topical in regards to 1st and 2nd Thessalonians. A comment was made that I didn't agree with and I felt my defenses go up. Thank goodness for the Holy Spirit who convicted me immediately of the pride welling up in me. "Just listen" is what I heard internally. Fortunately I obeyed and listened as it spurred a little conversation amongst the other women. <br />
My take away from this situation was a gentle reminder that I tend to be quite prideful and arrogant in my stance when I am on a certain side of a topic. Was this topic doctrinal to the Christian belief in regards to salvation? No. The "Rapture" and Jesus' Second Coming are areas in Scripture that God leaves suspenseful. They are not going to determine one's salvation nor are our questions going to be answered until these events happen. These types of unanswered topics in Scripture are mysteries for us to ponder and to discuss, but allowing these topics to cause rifts between believers, is a tool of the enemy and we need to recognize it as such. Sensitivity to the Holy Spirit and obedience are key. How do we acquire these? By being in His Word, through prayer and through <em>daily</em> submission to God's will. Will we mess up? Of course! We are human and by nature, prideful and sinful, but the goal in sanctification is to improve a little at a time.<br />
This situation has stuck with me the past few days and I have pondered the reality that I allow my pride to enter relationships daily. How many times do my feathers get ruffled over petty things? In all relationships of life I need to take my own advice and let the "Main Things" be the "Main <em>Themes</em>". Those being, peace, unity, selflessness, gentleness, compassion etc.. If I applied these things to my life more consistently, how much better would my relationships be? Food for thought ... C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-86519233709844071452020-02-02T15:34:00.001-08:002020-02-02T15:39:56.576-08:00Who Is Your Flock? If you have been a sincere and earnest follower of Jesus, you have a flock. Do you realize that? Have you considered who your flock may be? As I studied 1st Thessalonians this past week, I gained a greater appreciation for the deep and penetrating love that Paul had for <em>his</em> flock. As he walked the courses of his missionary journeys, he met numerous people, many of whom became true believers in the One True God and our Lord and Savior, Jesus. He may have not know them for much time before moving on to the next city where he preached the gospel and again, made new friends and fellow believers. His letter to the Thessalonians overwhelmed me with the care and encouragement that he desired to express to them; his longing to see them again and to know how they were doing in their faith-walk. <br />
Paul not only took the commission of sharing the gospel seriously, he also knew the importance of the follow-through. He took it as a personal privilege and responsibility to maintain a relationship with these people and to build them up in their faith; like he had a vested interest in their spiritual growth. He did! He was their shepherd and they were his flock. Paul tirelessly prayed for and encouraged his flock. He wrote letters to them and sent others to see them and to check-in on their progress and in some cases to rebuke them for bad habits or poor theology. Near or far, he played an integral role in their spiritual growth.<br />
If you have shared the gospel with just one person who heard, listened and believed, you have a flock. It may be a small one, but you now have the very same privilege and responsibility to continue assisting that person in building their relationship with Jesus. Maybe it is through prayer, phone calls, face-time or taking them to church each Sunday. Maybe the Lord would even ask you to invest time in doing a Bible study with them. Whatever He requests of you, you have a vested interest in that person. If you have been walking with the Lord for a number of years, your flock may be quite large by now. <br />
Does this mean that you need to quit your day job to become a full time shepherd? Well, if that is the Lord's leading then yes, but in most cases keeping a prayer list would be a good start. Write down as many people that you can think of that you have ministered the gospel to. This list in itself will be encouraging to you. You will be amazed as the names come into your mind, at the number of people that you have influenced! From there, as you pray each day, allow the leading of the Lord to pray for those whom He lays on your heart. You can also add to the prayer list the people that are currently in your circle of influence, but not yet believing in the Lord. I did this and was surprised by this number as well. Many of the people that I put on this list, I realized I had never prayed for them. <br />
Our flock needs our support, prayers and encouragement. Think about how <em>you</em> feel when you are encouraged. It is so important and faith-building. Lets do our part as shepherds. Set a goal this week to start your list and watch it grow. Then ask the Lord to help you set aside the time that is necessary to pray, visit and encourage those who are in your flock. Paul is such an outstanding example of this. He worked diligently as a tent-maker, but yet his priority was his job as shepherd. Can you say the same? I can't always and that needs to change! <br />
<br />C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-79752904078934578552020-01-26T17:35:00.001-08:002020-01-26T17:35:29.125-08:00"Paul-Style" Relationships As we studied Paul's second missionary journey this week in BSF, the realization of our need for community, fellowship and relationships struck me a little deeper. Additionally, I had a few opportunities in my personal life as well, to solidify this truth. As the technological word continues to advance, relationships seem to deteriorate. Paul did not have the option to text the new churches to inquire as to how they were coming along. Not only that, he and his buddies needed to <em>walk</em> there. How many of us will walk to our <em>neighbors</em> house to check on them?<br />
I work in the veterinary field. A sales rep gave a presentation this past week and he kept calling our clients "pet parents". This is just wrong! If God had wanted animals to be our equaled companions He would never have made Eve. Animals have many purposes, but to replace or fill the role of children or a spouse is not one of them. I believe that technology has been a major factor in the deterioration of human relationships and boosted the bond with animals.<br />
Stay with me here. These two seemingly different ideas do mesh together. The ability that we have to get information instantly has its benefits, but socially it will be the demise of community and fellowship without an effort to keep those two concepts alive. The desire of convenience and the tendency toward isolation add to this dilemma. I am an introvert by nature. To socialize takes effort for me and it can be draining. Texting has offered me the freedom to save myself a phone call or a visit in person. I like that. But it isn't healthy to fall into a pattern of this behavior. This week offered two separate instances where this principle played out in my life. Both my sister and my dear friend "needed" to talk in person (voice to voice) to be encouraged and comforted. The result of this "time" invested in these relationships was beneficial to them, but as it turns out, was to me as well! Go figure. Logically I know this, but it until it impacts us personally it is easy to forget that aspect of relationship.<br />
How does this relate to "pet parents"? I love my dogs and my horse. When life is hard it is nice to hang out with them. They don't talk back, my dogs love to cuddle and they are comforting. They like just being with me. It takes no effort on my part but I get a lot from them. The "pet parent" comment reminded me that we are MADE to have relationship with other people. Obviously people are longing for comfort, companionship and unconditional love that animals offer but we are not getting it from human interaction. In case you haven't learned this yet, relationships are hard! They take effort and time. They take compromise and they allow us to see the negative aspects of our character. And as technology increases the freedom to avoid relationships increases. Because human nature is lazy and takes the path of least resistance, we all have the potential to fall into this trap. <br />
The next time you reach out to a friend, family member, co-worker etc. do it "Paul style". Take the time to see them in person, go walking with them, spend time investing in their life and their need. It truly is mutually beneficial, but it is also God's design for the human race. Why do you think they call it "Face Time"? We desire and long for the benefits of relationship, we just don't want to invest the effort and time. Who can you invest in this week? Stop the texting and the social media messaging and <em>connect</em> with them personally. It will put a smile on their face and yours! C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-11084370592602784892020-01-19T15:56:00.002-08:002020-01-19T15:56:58.196-08:00Saturation Point One of my favorite subjects in college was chemistry. To examine and understand (at least a little) the intricacies of atoms and molecules and their structure, attraction and repulsion of each other intrigued me greatly. To realize the detail in which God created everything in existence is beyond words and even imagination, at least for me. <br />
Yesterday, my husband and I were discussing our desire for certain things to become second nature for us. Specifically, our thoughts and responses in daily situations to instinctively go to God, whether it be reflected through prayer or behavior. This topic lead me to the thought of the saturation point in terms of chemistry. The saturation point of salt water is when you have added so much salt to the glass of water that the water molecules are full and can no longer attach to the salt molecules. The result of this is the remaining salt settling on the bottom of the glass. <em>I</em> want to be "saturated" with <em>Jesus</em>. <br />
I think in many places throughout God's Word this idea is conveyed, but not illustrated through chemistry. When we are told to pray without ceasing. Does the writer mean that 24/7 we should be on our knees praying? No. That certainly is not a realistic interpretation, however, the idea of continual prayer is if we are "saturated" with Jesus. The result <em>would</em> be an instinctive and second nature response to our daily interactions which in turn would result in continual prayer. I did a word search for "filled" and found so many more expressions of the word than I ever expected. Such as Ephesians 3:19 "and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be <em>filled</em> with all the fullness of God." Philippians 1:9-11 "And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, <em>filled</em> with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God". And 1st Peter 1:8 "Though you have not seen Him , you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are <em>filled</em> with an inexpressible and glorious joy."<br />
The word "full" is a synonym for saturated. I find this to be quite interesting. I don't think that I am reaching, to surmise that to be "saturated" with Jesus would result in also being saturated with joy, knowledge and righteousness which by the way, lends to peace (Hebrews 12:11 "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."). It's a "win-win" situation. Filling ourselves with Jesus is promised to fill us with the wonders of the Holy Spirit. <br />
I definitely want to reach my "Jesus saturation point". Will I reach that before I reach heaven? Not if I don't try and even then maybe not. But I know I want to be more saturated tomorrow than I am today. How saturated are you? Is there room for more Jesus in your heart and your life? <br />
C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-57471964145229446812020-01-12T14:11:00.000-08:002020-01-12T14:11:40.629-08:00That Pecking Bird! I LOVE to sleep in! I mean really LOVE to sleep in. I don't get to do that very often but to sleep until 8am (or later if blessed) is such a treat! My husband is so good to keep the dogs quiet and to bring me a cup of coffee when he thinks I may be awake. (God is so GOOD!) Anyhow, last year there were a few times I had the chance to sleep in but wasn't able to on account of a bird. That's right a stinking bird. It was a Northern Flicker which likes to peck on old dead trees, usually to nest in. However when they can't find a good tree, siding of a house will suffice. These birds are really pretty but not at 7am when I am trying to enjoy a "sleep-in" day and they are pecking on the siding of my house! <br />
As I pondered this bird for a bit, I wondered if it knew something that I didn't about my home. Was there a weak spot in the siding? Maybe some sort of insect in the wall? Or was it just pecking to peck and disturbing my slumber for no good reason! Anyhow, this bird found a spot on the side of the house that happened to be the exterior wall of my bedroom. Go figure. It woke me up and I was a little bit more than irritated. I opened the window and yelled, but another trait of the Flicker is they are pretty brave. It stayed put and continued to peck away. By now, I am pretty frustrated. I pulled out the screen and got on the roof (my bedroom overlooks the roof of the garage). It was intent on the task at hand ... pecking! There was a pinecone on the roof and I threw it at the bird. I missed, but it did fly away ... for a very short time. And today's blog was born!<br />
As it turns out, the bird didn't necessarily sense anything abnormal with my home, but it still made me think of Satan and his negative nature. He senses the weaknesses (sin) that we have and he pecks away until he has a hole big enough to nest. "Google" had a few remedies for keeping this bird from pecking on my home, but I just kept throwing pinecones at it, (and missing) and filled the small hole it had started, with caulking. It eventually went somewhere else to make a nest. <br />
How do we deal with Satan when he has found a weak spot? Do we just keep shooing him away or do we shore up the "weakness" so that he can't get a foothold? If the Flicker bird is not removed from the situation, much damage can be done and such is the case with Satan. If we don't address the attacks he will continue to advance and much damage can be done to our lives as well as the lives of those around us. If you sense the presence of the enemy prowling around your door or pecking on your siding, I suggest that you investigate as to why he is prowling and put some tactics in place to keep him from causing damage. Prayer, time in God's Word, repentance of any known sin in your life and continual fellowship with mature Christians are just a few of the preventative actions we can take to help keep Satan, the pecking bird, from doing damage. I can tell you right now that throwing things at him probably won't get him to leave and even if it does, it won't be a long-tem fix!<br />
C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-39415357071651820802020-01-05T16:57:00.001-08:002020-01-05T16:57:19.570-08:00My Apologies WOW! January of 2020! I can't believe how time flies by. It feels like it was just 2016 and according to my last blog post, it was! I sincerely apologize for the lack of attention that I have given to this site. If you have an interest in knowing what has been keeping me away, read on. <br />
It really comes down to one thing: Spiritual laziness. I have allowed the acronym of BUSY (<u>B</u>eing <u>U</u>nder <u>S</u>atan's <u>Y</u>oke) to occupy my time. Work has been very stressful and time consuming and life at home while good, is similar. And what gets pushed out first? Time serving the Lord or even sitting at His feet. How sad. Can any of you relate? I suspect, yes.<br />
A New Year offers opportunity to reflect back and we all tend to do that even if is just a little bit. I don't usually dwell on a New Year but this year is different. It is 2020 for goodness sakes!! A mile-marker and a year that I would love to have go down in the record book of my life as a game-changer.<br />
Excuses. Everybody has them but the truth is, I have lost sight of my priorities. Being BUSY does that. It is a very successful way for the enemy to distract and occupy our time so that our relationship with God becomes 2nd, 3rd, 4th etc.. I have had a few wake up calls over the past couple of years and it has taken me this long to get serious about making changes. Man, we can be so DENSE! (Some day the Lord may chose to use those wake-up calls as posts!)<br />
I am still a Children's Leader in BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) and I enjoy that very much but I would be lying if I said that I was giving it 100%. I would estimate closer to 65-70%. I work about 50 hours a week as the Practice Manger of a veterinary hospital and try to engage in normal relationships and activities outside of those things. People who are good at "Time Management" would probably say: "So what's the problem?". I however, struggle in this area. So, I am prayerful and energized to make 2020 a little, no, ALOT different. I don't have a plan in place just yet, but I have been praying about it and returning to my blog is part of what I feel the Lord is recommending. I would love to have my readers help keep me accountable. If you feel led to email me and give me a nudge when I am slacking, go for it! We are all in this together. <br />
Outlandish goals just set us up for failure so I am not planning to do that, but I know that a weekly to bi-monthly post is not unreasonable. God gives me opportunities daily, that I can share, but something "Blog" worthy, at least a couple of times per month.<br />
I do pray for all of you a healthy and prosperous 2020 and if any of you can relate to my above sentiments, find someone who will hold you accountable for some changes. Then make them. I remember back to 2011 when I was going through my divorce. The divorce was not my choice, but I will tell you that I had the sweetest time ever with the Lord and would not change that for anything! I was closer to Him then, than I had ever been before and sadly, since. But that is my <em>choice.</em> He hasn't gone anywhere. He is no further or closer than He was then.<em> I</em> am the one who has moved. C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-35655967097732145282016-07-29T18:30:00.002-07:002016-07-29T18:31:10.525-07:00Haven't Forgotten!Just a quick note that I haven't forgotten about my blog duties! I am working on one this very moment!<br />
It will be posted in a few days ... or less!<br />
<br />C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-51148974405671103652016-06-27T09:23:00.002-07:002016-06-27T09:24:45.438-07:00Just a QuickieI have this posted in my office and want to share it. It helps me keep my priorities straight! (I am not sure where I got it, or who wrote/said it.)<br />
"There is only one relationship that matters and that is your personal relationship to a personal Redeemer and Lord. Let every thing else go, but maintain that at ALL costs and God will fulfill His purpose through your life.<br />
One individual may be of priceless value to God's purposes, and yours may be that life." C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-76265659862247920162016-06-25T12:48:00.001-07:002016-06-25T12:49:41.830-07:00The "Hall of Faith" Hebrews chapter 11 is most commonly known as the "Hall of Faith". In this chapter God reveals to us a number of those whom have had extraordinary faith in Him from the beginning. But the chapter in in Hebrews is not all inclusive! There are so many more who are on the list in my mind of "faithful". <br />
Currently I am reading about Hannah and her faith, in the book of 1st Samuel. She was barren and so very badly wanted a baby. She went to the Lord God and poured out her heart. When she entered His presence in prayer, she was "deeply distressed" but when she finished praying her face was "no longer sad". To me, this is evidence of her faith!<br />
1st Samuel 1:20 reads, "In due time, Hannah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Samuel, for she said, 'I have asked for him from the Lord'". (ESV) There you have it. Now we know that she asked, had faith and named him accordingly. <br />
When we go before the Lord in prayer, do we have that faith? Do we walk away from our prayer-time with a "new countenance" that reflects our faith that we know God heard us? Or, do we have to see results that meet our expectations before we have a new attitude? As I mature in the Lord, I find that I more commonly have a changed attitude pretty quickly. I have seen His faithfulness over and over again in my life and He has taught me that He ALWAYS hears me. <br />
Now, is the answer always yes? Well, NO! But even when a no comes, I trust Him to have my best interest in mind. I usually don't <em>know</em> what is best for me, I just know what I <em>want</em>. And here again, I have learned over the years that usually what I want <em>isn't</em> best for me! <br />
So Hannah received a yes. But in her prayer for a child, she also promised God that she would give the child back to God to serve Him all the days of the child's life. WOW! Is this faith or just an empty promise to get what she wanted? We see in verses 1:27-28 that Hannah remembers her vow to God and gave Samuel to the Lord. More faith! Do we bargain with God? If so, do we hold up our end? God cannot be mocked or fooled. He knows long before we make a deal with Him whether or not we will be faithful to it. This is why I tend not to make promises to God. I just don't think that I am dependable enough to keep them. I generally tell Him that whatever He chooses is good with me, because I am good with that. He has NEVER chosen badly for me.<br />
Hannah knew this truth already, it seems. She trusted Him to hear her, to answer her and she trusted Him with the outcome. What an awesome example of faith!<br />
God blessed her with a baby but her selfless vow couldn't have been easy to live with every day. I suspect that there were days that she longed to have her son at home with her, to teach him and watch him grow. Sometimes this may be the case with us. We ask for something in prayer, God answers our prayer and then we find that our flesh still isn't content. Maybe it didn't turn out like we had hoped, or it did at first, but it got harder with time; that situation or relationship. Does this mean that God really didn't answer our prayer after all? Nope. Most likely He did and we are right were we belong; growing, learning and gaining faith. Its in these times we need to be patient and steadfast in prayer. God will encourage us and confirm that we are right were we need to be. God blessed Hannah for her obedience by giving her more children. And God blesses us for ours as well.<br />
Take heart, be strong and learn from Hannah's example! C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-25945005943435573982014-01-05T21:12:00.002-08:002014-01-05T21:16:50.778-08:00Once Saved Always Saved?<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The time has come for me to hit a
topic that can be very controversial. The title of this post is a dead
giveaway. For the past decade I have believed that once a person is saved they
cannot lose their salvation. This is something that the Bible seems to promise
and can be very comforting. I have depended on this theology for some of my
loved ones who have strayed as well as for myself. The verses that lend to a
belief in "once saved always saved" talk about; Jesus seeking His
lost sheep (Matthew 18:10-14), the promise of the eternal inheritance and being
sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:11-14). There are additional verses
that comfort us with the thought that we cannot lose our salvation but as I
have done a little deeper searching recently, I have discovered verses that
more strongly imply that we CAN.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p>What stirred me with the initial thought that maybe salvation can be lost<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> is the number of people that I have seen who have claimed to be Christians and have truly turned their backs on the Lord's path for their lives. Of course the common question that comes up is: Were they ever saved in the first place?</span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As I started looking in to this, I
realized that the verses I found are speaking to Christians and warning them of
the apostasy or falling away of believers. Why would God warn believers of
falling away if they are secure from the onset of their acceptance of Jesus as
their Savior? Also, much of the New Testament tells us to live out our faith,
that faith without works is dead and that we should reflect the fruits of the
Spirit. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p>I have no doubt that if we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior and we live lives according to God's will, we will NOT lose our salvation. However, I am teetering on the fence-line and must admit leaning towards the side of belief that we CAN lose it if WE walk away from God. And that we CAN walk away from Him. God allows us free will and with that free will, we can conclude that life according to the Bible is too hard and choose to turn our backs on it. There may be a difference between back-sliding and pure rejection, but I believe that rejection is possible. And, happening all over the place!</o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Here is some of the evidence that I
have found:</span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Hebrews 6:4-12 is well known for the talk of apostasy.
The writer tells us that it is impossible for those who have been
enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift and shared in the Holy
Spirit and tasted the goodness of the Word of God and then fallen away, to
be restored again to repentance because they are crucifying Jesus all over
again. He goes on to say the he desires each of us to show the same
earnestness to have full assurance of hope until the end. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ezekiel 33:12-20 speaks of the righteous man who does injustice
shall die and that the wicked, when turning from his sins will live. The
righteous are not to depend on their righteousness to save them when they
sin. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">James 1:22 says: "But be doers of the word, and
not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Matthew 7:13-14 talks about the wide and narrow gates.
Jesus tells us that the narrow gate is hard and will be found by few.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Some of you may think that I am
taking these out of context or stretching what the main point is, but I have to
say that I am becoming more comfortable in my spirit with the idea that people
can and DO walk away from the Lord. I also think that there are many people out
there who claim Christianity but live their lives according to <i>their</i>
will not God's. This is the gray area where we cannot always determine who has
outright rejected God and who is just back-sliding or walking with a foot in
the world. Fortunately for us, WE do not have to concern ourselves with this
knowledge. It is only God's authority and judgment that will determine the true
heart of each believer. However, it is important that we as true believers hold
other professing Christians accountable to the word of God. When we see blatant
sin in the lives of others and in our nation as well, we need to stand for
God's truth and morals. Rejection of God may be as simple as rejection of His
Word. If we know that He tells us not to do something specific, yet we chose to
keep doing it are we in a sense rejecting God? Just something to ponder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Well, I guess I have said enough for
now. This has just been on my mind for awhile now and I wanted to share.
Feedback is encouraged if anyone has thoughts on the subject. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-80414314863690671612013-12-24T13:10:00.000-08:002013-12-24T13:10:16.495-08:00Happy Birthday Jesus!!!
<br />
Even though Jesus was not truly born in the winter (April is more accurate),
we still observe His birth on December 25th. What a glorious day and a glorious
gift that God gave US! We traditionally call it the season of giving, yet the
most perfect and gracious gift ever given was that of eternal life to all who
choose to accept it through the blood of Jesus. <br />
<br />
As we look around these days it is heartbreaking to see just how far we have
strayed from the true meaning of Christmas. It is so commercialized and
politically correct it actually makes me sick to my stomach. It is our job as
true followers and lovers of our Lord and Savior, to share this truth with
others and to stand up for Him. The Christian, in general, is so weak and
tolerant of the beliefs that are flooding this nation, the term Christian no
longer makes the hair on Satan's neck stand rather he probably just smiles and
goes about his business. We are not the strong backbone of this nation any longer.
BUT we can be!! Honestly, it is our duty, our responsibility and our privileged
to stand for Him. We will be hated and scorned, maybe even arrested or fired
but if we let our fear detour us from the work we have ahead of us, we have
already handed the victory to the enemy. <br />
<br />
OK, enough of my rant. All I can say is Merry Christmas to you all and may
He bless you with the peace of eternal life and remember, the "big
picture" is not life on this earth but the life to come. <br />
<br />
But I can't sign off without prompting you to think about what your goals
will be for 2014 in regards to your stand for the Lord and the immorality of
this nation. Pray about the work He has lined up for you and for the courage to
perform that work.<br />
<br />
May the Lord bless and keep you,<br />
May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you,<br />
May the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers
6:24-26<br />
C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-8779609661548107252013-12-16T16:29:00.002-08:002013-12-16T16:29:18.734-08:00Sick and Tired From time to time it strikes me; just how much I truly take for granted. I feel good and life is going along fairly smooth and even though I DO thank the Lord for these things, I forget just how much He does ALL the time. This thought came to me today because I have been sick the last two weeks. Nothing major, just a cold then a short stomach flue, but I really felt pretty crappy. As I am beginning to feel better today, I realize how much I don't think about my health when I have it!<br />
I have a couple of friends who suffer from regular debilitating conditions and I try to put myself in their shoes. Boy is that hard! I am a pretty active and type A personalitied person and being down for any length of time is hard for me. I know these women are of a similar personality as me and knowing this, I really feel for them. I think they tend to see the gifts from the Lord a little better than I. Every time I get sick and begin to feel better I have these thoughts and emotions but honestly they wane after awhile. Here I am once again!<br />
Well, this is a short post I know, but I wanted to share to send a reminder of God's graciousness to us all in ALL things. AND to encourage us to remember in prayer, those we know who suffer from poor health. As far as that goes, to help us remember others who suffer in many ways.<br />
My goal will be to keep these things closer to the front of my mind on a regular basis. I hope you will too!C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-58884901859682726812013-12-05T14:14:00.000-08:002013-12-05T14:14:02.451-08:00Fired Up
When I started this blog, my goal was to help people apply God's Word to
their life. And, that is still my goal, however, I am getting a little bit
frustrated with the many so-called Christians who claim to be just that but who
really don't reflect it in their lives ... sometimes not at all!! <br />
<br />
As I watch what is happening with the nation as a whole; things people say,
what we do with our time and how we spend our money, I realize that if this
nation really were 80% Christian as statistics say, we wouldn't embrace
same-sex marriages, abortion and so many other anti-Biblical lifestyles. This
posting may seem similar to the one titled "Don't keep hittin'
snooze", but maybe it has to be said again, and again.<br />
<br />
I never used to be "in" to politics, but as I grow older I realize
that it is important to know what is going on and to be involved to some
extent. For each person that will mean different levels of involvement. Voting
is a good first step! Many people don't even do that and if they do they may
not be all that informed when they make their choices. I used to be that person
and honestly I am just recently seeking God's direction for me to become more
involved. The revision of my blog is my first step.<br />
<br />
I went to a rally this summer that was geared towards liberty and God and
the direction this nation is headed-completely the OPPOSITE direction! They had
a number of speakers; one of our state representatives, a pastor, the leaders
of a few "liberty loving" organizations and a woman named KrisAnne
Hall. (KrisAnneHall.com) She is a constitutional lawyer, a pastor's wife, a
mother and a fired-up speaker! WOW! She was so passionate and informed. By the
time she was finished, I was on fire too! But, as the days and weeks passed, my
"fire" dwindled. I got caught up with "life" once again and
she and her passion became a distant memory, until recently.<br />
<br />
One of the reasons our Founding Fathers left the "Old World" for
the "New One" was to get out from under the hands of their current
government. They wanted the freedoms and liberties that God gives when we live
according to His Word. Living under an authority that denies those freedoms and
liberties causes an enslavement of sorts. Yes, the authorities we live under
are allowed their placement by God Almighty. However, that doesn't mean they
are always good for us. It also doesn't mean that we can just let them dictate <em>their</em>
laws <em>especially</em> when their laws conflict with God's laws. Our nation
was once a God-fearing country and we have been blessed because of that, I
believe, but God will only allow the moral decay of our nation for so long. The
Old Testament is clear that God will allow nations to live in filth and stray
until destruction or enslavement comes. Examples like Noah and the
"Flood", Lot and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the capture
of His people by both the Assyrians and the Babylonians just to name a few,
should cause us to re-evaluate our nation's direction. That needs to start with
each one of us individually.<br />
<br />
First we need to pull our heads out of the sand and look around. Truly
recognize the muck and mire in which we are currently living. Check out the
Kardashian's Christmas card and see what is desirable within our nation (have a
vomit bag ready!). Really pay attention to what is on TV and then<em> throw it
out the window</em>!! I know there are many people who are reading this and are
already aware of these things. That is great! Now take it to the next level.
Pray and seek God's will for you and get involved somehow. Tell others what you
know. We have come to a point where we need to share the Word of the Lord AND
wake others up to the crumbling of our beautiful nation! These things go
hand-in-hand. It isn't enough any longer to know God's Word and live it for
ourselves. I believe we are in a crisis that needs immediate and serious
attention. When I read Joel Rosenberg's book <u>Implosion</u> he cited
information about the first and second "Great Awakening’s” both of which I
was unfamiliar. We truly do need a third in order for our nation to survive.
AND, it may be God's will that it NOT survive. He may allow our nation to disintegrate.
But we have to try or it "curtains" for America. If you don't believe
me or think it isn't that bad, do your own research. If you do agree with me
then get busy. I can't tell you what to do at this point, although here are
some things with which you can start; pray first, vote after researching the
candidates and topics, write your congressmen when you disagree with laws and
bills and educate yourself both Biblically and constitutionally (know your
God-given and constitutional rights!!).<br />
<br />
Now, go get fired up!<br />
<br />
<br />
C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-52356382091520400402013-11-27T16:19:00.001-08:002013-11-27T16:19:56.774-08:00Saying "Goodbye"
<br />
In my opinion, one of the hardest things there is to say is
"goodbye". I suppose it depends on what we may be saying goodbye to;
if it's extra pounds or a bad habit, then maybe not! But saying it to something
or SOMEONE we love can be heartbreaking. Many of us have had to say goodbye too
many times for one lifetime, but God does allow us to experience goodbye and I
can only assume it is for our own learning and growth in our faith.<br />
<br />
Recently I have had to say goodbye to one of my dogs. She was a really cool
dog and God blessed me with twelve and one half years with her. Even though I
will miss her ... A LOT, I have many memories with which to remember her. These
are definite blessings from the Lord. However, it feels like I have said
goodbye quite a bit in the past few years. As I was talking to my sister
earlier today we discussed how God tells us not to dwell on the past but to
live for the future. Anyone of us could sit down for 20-30 mins and think about
our past, recalling hurts, losses etc. and within a little bit of time become
depressed, sad, angry or bitter. These are not emotions in which God would want
us to dwell. <br />
<br />
As we near the national day of Thanksgiving, it makes me ponder the things
to be thankful for rather than to give in to the enemy and be sorrowful over my
losses. How much more have I gained being a child of Christ? And isn't it true
that through all of our losses we gain so much; like faith, a clearer picture
of how big God is, a greater dependence on Him, opportunities to see others
being blessed as they help us through our times of sorrow and so much more!
These are the things that I appreciate as I go through the valley of
"goodbyes". These are seasons and as we know, seasons come and go.
God even reminds us that there are seasons for all sorts of things and mourning
and sorrow are some of them. But again seasons are for a time and we are not to
"dwell" in them.<br />
<br />
I have taken the time to mourn and probably will a little more over the next
few weeks or months. But on the tail of each tear, it is my goal to praise the
Lord for the blessings; past, present and future. I do not want to get lost in
my sorrow and allow the enemy to lead me down a path of negative emotion. To keep
from doing this, I know that I will need to be in God's Word, in prayer and
surround myself with those who can keep me straight and accountable.
Fortunately I have a very good family that will support me and kick me in the
butt when I need it. <br />
<br />
So, when you are in the "valley of goodbyes", know that you have
the freedom to mourn but pray for wisdom to know when you are entering enemy
territory. Spend extra time in God's Word and in prayer because you will need
it! And keep yourself surrounded by others who can give you support and courage
as well as clear thinking when you are not able to do that yourself.<br />
<br />
Goodbyes are a part of life provided by God Almighty for our benefit. We
need to see them as such and praise the Lord each step of the way! <br />
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C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-91063254073553282812013-11-13T09:18:00.001-08:002013-11-13T12:38:34.867-08:00Don't Keep Hittin' "Snooze"! I never in a million years thought that it would happen to me! Someone that I loved and I thought loved the Lord would walk away from it all. Yet that is exactly what happened in the summer of 2011. This was the beginning of a whole new outlook for me. I realize now that at that time, I was asleep myself. I went to Bible Study and church and fellow-shipped with others. I worked and did the normal "life stuff". Then all at once the rug was pulled away. I am not complaining. Actually, I have grow much closer to the Lord and have learned a TON. But along the way I realized that the body of Christ is ASLEEP!!! Or at least, a good portion of it. Maybe they are continuing to hit the snooze button and are half asleep but still they are not all that useful to the Lord in their current state. In some cases, even damaging to the Lord's name. <br />
What happened to me is not all that uncommon. In fact, there are a number of people who have shared their stories about people they would "swear" were Christians, who have "fallen" away from the faith. Can this happen? Can people who are saved really walk away? I believe: Yes. Now, this is not going to be a topic of "once saved always saved", although I do have some thoughts on that and some Scripture to share sometime, but mostly I want to talk about this to stir hearts and open minds. Do you know someone who is making conscience decisions that are against God's Word and they don't seem to care? <br />
Now, there are question that arise like, "Why" and "What can we do to help". Honestly I think that the <em>answers</em> are pretty simply put, but not so simply <em>done</em>. In regards to the "Why?", I believe that people are just not in the Word enough. I can go to church and pray over my food and maybe before I go to bed, but if that is all I do then the world has a greater hold on me than the conviction of the Holy Spirit does. Also when my flesh wants something it is much easier to give in. Some of us are living with one foot in the world and one foot in the heavenly kingdom. In some cases not even a whole foot is in the Kingdom. But they don't seem to care because life is OK. <br />
God tells us in His Word that there will be an "apostasy" or a falling away as we get closer to His coming. There are varying views on what exactly God means with this section of Scripture, and I am not a scholar so I won't get into theology here, but He IS talking to the church and warning us of this time in history. I think this time is upon us. If we continue to do our normal thing and ignore the state of our brothers and sisters in Christ, ignore the state of our nation and ignore God's commands to "eat-drink-and-sleep" His Word then we will be abruptly awakened when it is too late!<br />
So, the "What can we do to help"? answer: First of all, BE IN GOD'S WORD ... DAILY! Now I know some people who are in God's Word, but just plain don't apply it. This is a personal thing between each person and the Lord. There are limited things we can do for another persons' relationship with the Lord. Of course we can pray for them in whatever ways we are lead to pray, but ultimately each is their own and sometimes we have to just stand by and watch them sink or swim. BUT, each of us has our own relationship with the Lord and we need to be working on that every day. We need to be APPLYING God's word to our lives and setting godly examples in the things we do. We need to hold people accountable for their sinful behavior if they are "Christians" and we need to gently share Truth of God's Word with those who are not. We are too worried about "judging" others these days. And yes WE shouldn't judge others, but God's Word does and that is the plumb-line we use. If God's Word says it is wrong, then it is wrong and we need to stand up for that!<br />
So many times God tells us to be alert and be watching, that wisdom is knowing what is going on around us (I am paraphrasing here) and being prepared for anything is important. Are we? Are YOU? The more I study Scripture the more I see God telling us that as time gets closer to His return, the weeding-out will become evident. I believe I am seeing that all around me and all around our nation. There are many people out there who think they are Christians and honestly probably are not. It is our job to help educate and to lead. In order for us to do that and to be effective we need to know what God says and live it ourselves. That is how we can help. We need to be a nation of God-fearing, Jesus loving, Holy-Spirit led people. Currently we really are not. If we were, we wouldn't have to fight against same-sex marriages, abortion or rampant pornography or ... the list goes on. It is time that we stand up and do what is right. And not just do what feels good or what we have time for. I haven't blogged for almost 2 years. My excuse; no time. Well, I feel that the Lord has been prompting me to get back at it regardless of my time or lack thereof. So here I go.<br />
In summary, get in the Word, pray for His wisdom, guidance and opportunities to lead, teach and share the Truth and get involved! Somewhere, somehow, do SOMETHING to help people and this nation get back on track. If we wait much longer it will be too late. We can only hit the snooze button for so long. <br />
(I will provide some Scripture verses to back up my views in a bit, I just was anxious to get this posted and start myself, getting back on track with the work God has for me.)C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-90214848512507108272011-09-29T21:40:00.000-07:002011-09-29T21:57:18.316-07:00The Passenger<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">If you have ever been a
passenger on a motorcycle, you know how important it is to become
"one" with the driver. As the bike leans to the right to take a sharp
corner, the passenger needs to be leaning into the corner as well. Commonly the
natural reaction is to sit up straight or maybe to lean a <em><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">little</span></em> bit to the right,
but in order for the driver to have the most control, the one on the back needs
to fight the urge to fight the bike and just "go with the flow"!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">This summer I was able to
go visit my family and I always enjoy going for a ride on the back of my
brother's bike. He tends to take me on an exciting ride, to say the least and
it usually takes a little while before I get relaxed enough to become "one"
with him as he speeds down the road. The ride he took me on this summer was on
a great little road that sways and swerves through some really pretty
countryside, but the corners are sharp and numerous. As I was swaying and
swerving with the bike I was thinking about how this illustration fits life
when we are living our lives with God when He is the driver and we are
passengers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Life isn't a straight road.
At times there are straight sections, but they are mixed in with a variety of
curves, hills and bumps. As we travel this road called life the outcome really
does depend on how well we become "one" with Jesus as we allow Him to
take control and handle the less-than-straight sections! Do we fight the
corners and try to keep the bike upright because it feels funny to lean into
the curves? Do we try too hard to see over His shoulder so we know where we are
headed? Or, do we relax and just enjoy the sways and swerves of the ride? If
you are like me you probably don't enjoy the ride near as much as you should or
could. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Joy amidst the
circumstances of life is a commonly mentioned idea in the New Testament. The Apostles faced many trials and tribulations, yet through them they mention finding joy <strong>in</strong> them. James even considers it pure joy when you face trials. How could they maintain such positive outlooks? They became
"one" with the Lord Jesus in the work that God had prepared for them
to accomplish. They leaned into the direction of the curves and didn't worry
or strain to see over God's shoulder. They never cared where God was taking them
only that God would be there with them! If we can adopt this attitude God will
be able to take us so much further in the work He has planned for us! Will you
examine your "ride" with Jesus and see how well you are doing being
the passenger? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Do a word search for "joy" to help you find more joy in your ride with Jesus! </span><br />
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</span>C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-76067362850023828882011-09-06T10:05:00.000-07:002011-09-06T10:05:12.793-07:00Summer Storms<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't know about you, but I absolutely love a good summer storm. They have a certain smell and feel and they are so invigorating. If they include thunder and lightning, they are even better! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Recently, I took a trip and ended up in a big storm as I was traveling. I was by myself and was in unfamiliar territory. It was a little scary but exciting all at the same time. I knew the Lord was with me and that gave me the confidence I needed to keep going. The road I was headed down was a little two lane highway and I was climbing a nine-thousand foot mountain pass. As I drove, the thunder and lightning crashed above me and the rain came down in torrents. The road continued to climb as the storm intensified. It was amazing! I have been in some pretty good storms over the years, but this one was certainly in the top five. Just as I reached the top of the pass, the storm started to break. I pulled over for a little break myself and to take in the scenery and as I stood there a rainbow appeared. It was such a comfort as I remembered God's promise of His Covenant.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This summer has presented me with an opportunity to lean on the Lord in a way that I have never done before. The mountain storm I encountered was such an illustration of how God is with us through it all. The storm of my life has left me feeling alone and scared at times when I allow my flesh to overcome me. But as I drove this little mountain road, I realized that just as He was with me in this real storm, He is always with me in the storms of my life. The emotions I was experiencing as I traveled up that mountain were quite mixed but the overriding ones were excitement and joy. When I truly seek the Lord in prayer and through His Word, I experience those same emotions even in the midst of my "storm". What a comfort He is! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The apex of the mountain also brought a reminder that there will be a cresting of my storm as well and that He will see me through. As I stood on the mountain top watching the storm move away from me and the "bow" in the sky appearing, I was filled with an amazing amount of peace and awe at the mighty faithfulness of the Lord. Again, He comforted me with that thought knowing that He will do the same as I walk out of the valley of my life's current trial. God is the "All Knowing" and "Ever Present" God of Lights and He will carry us through day by day and moment by moment. In Him, we can trust.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">This summer I have been reading through the Psalms and there are so many that comfort and exhort. Take time this fall to browse through them and to see God in a new way. Pray that He will reveal a new aspect of His character to you and believe that He will!</span> </div>
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C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-57559605272601881842011-05-24T14:19:00.000-07:002011-05-28T08:13:28.427-07:00Are We Havin' Fun Yet? Part Two<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Last week I mentioned a couple of reasons that JOY can be lost or missing in our lives and today I will share one more. Hopefully you have had some time to look deep within to see if you are filled with the JOY of the Lord and if not, that you have allowed the Lord to show you where it can be found in your life.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As we grow closer to the Lord, we want to become the holy person that He designed us to be. At least that is what my goal was and is, however, I have realized that the pendulum has swung a little too far on the side of legalism. I am not a bubbly and light-hearted person by nature. I actually tend to be serious and even skeptical at times. This, compounded with the very serious topic of eternal judgment, I have become even more serious and almost pious. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">It is important to stand for the Truth and to live a clean life so that God can use us and be glorified through us, but we can't be all doom and gloom or goody-goody while we are serving the Lord. We need to be real, which should include, laughing and having fun. God did ask us to live in a certain manner, but He didn't tell us to do it with a sour or negative attitude. We should be filled with JOY as we live on this earth. If others see Christianity as gloomy and serious ALL of the time lacking any fun and light-heartedness, it probably won't attract too many people. Don't get me wrong here, we DO need to take things seriously when it comes to sin and rejection of or disobedience to the Lord, but there are times for laughter. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">A friend of mine pointed out that the sin in the world <em>does</em> make it difficult to have fun because the world laughs at sin. When we laugh at the things of the world, it may give the impression that we approve of the sin and that is a line that I have been avoiding. It is much easier to just not laugh than to risk having people think that I am laughing with the world. I intentionally don't watch sit-coms anymore because the funny parts are usually directed at sin; a disobedient child, a lazy husband, a sexual encounter that is immoral and the list goes on. It is my preference to just not go there. However, I have gone too far in that I have been shutting out the world as much as I can. There are parts of it that we can still enjoy. That will vary for each of us, but I am realizing that for the sake of my relationships, my emotional health and for the picture that I paint of Christianity, I need to seek out opportunities to laugh and have fun. I suggest that you do the same if you find that you are taking life just a little too seriously these days!! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I bought a few Christian comedian DVDs recently and am taking time to laugh on a more regular basis. If you haven't seen or heard of Tim Hawkins, I suggest you check him out. He really is funny! </span>C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7157922279852397219.post-28537873925184689812011-05-16T12:20:00.000-07:002011-05-24T13:47:28.274-07:00Are We Havin' Fun Yet? Part One<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Can you remember the last time that you really had fun? I mean REALLY! The kind of fun that you will remember forever, think of often and share with others? I can't. I do remember having fun in my past, but to really recall a time where I was rolling on the floor laughing or giggling like a schoolgirl, is difficult. Recently God has been showing me that I have become a little bit of a "stick in the mud". And to be sure that I got the message, He allowed that truth to come from someone I dearly love! Have you fallen into the mud as well? I think that it can be very difficult to find enjoyment and laughter these days. Times are financially difficult for many, relationships are strained everywhere you look and overall the outlook is grim nationally. Sin abounds and we live right in the middle of it! Should these things kill our ability to have joy? Not according to God's Word! Recently I have spent some time seeking God's plan for joy in our lives and this is what I have discovered.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">As I was doing my BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) study this past week I came across the verse in Isaiah, 61:10a that states: "I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God." Over the years I have read a number of verses that tell us that our joy comes from the Lord, but I have never really taken that to heart. I know that happiness is fleeting but joy lasts forever and that J.O.Y. is when we put <u>J</u>esus first, <u>O</u>thers second and <u>Y</u>ourself last. Sure it all sounds good, but how do you apply it to your life? I thought that I was in good shape. I pray, study His Word, go to church and try to be obedient to His calling and to His will. So why would I be told that I am not too much fun? Well, after much prayer and searching His Word for answers I have come to a conclusion. The answer is multi-faceted so I will take one issue at a time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Over the years I have began understanding the true freedom that comes from a relationship with Jesus. It changes our lives and transforms us into godly people and the blessings that come from this transformation are abundant and truly indescribable. As I see people ache from the choices of a worldly life, also known as sin, I have become overwhelmed with grief and sorrow for those who don't know the Lord. It even frustrates me at times, to know those who outright reject Him. I have taken the situation so seriously that I have forgotten the joy in rejoicing over the fact that I am no longer one of the "lost"! Yes, this is a serious matter, but I can't carry the weight of those who are choosing to build up their treasures on earth. Obedience to share the truth with them is part of my job for God, but at the end of the day, I need to leave the "work stuff" at work and enjoy the freedom that I have in Christ.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Joy can also be lost in the daily grind of our own lives; the bills stacked high, the relationship that is strained or even broken that we can't get off our minds, dreams that seem to be dashed, health problems that touch everybody on some level and the list goes on. If this sounds familiar is it even possible to find joy in each day? Sure we have salvation but what about the here and now? This is a tough thing but if we really trust God to be in control of ALL things and we trust Him to have our best at heart then we should be able to find joy in those things alone. Easier said than done! I have recently realized that I have been saying those things to myself for years, but I wasn't <em><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">living</span></em> like I believed them! There was a disconnect between the <em><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">knowing</span></em> and <em><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">applying.</span></em> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">As I continued to pray about my lost joy and continued to search His Word, I found that the same theme permeated from the Scriptures: Delight in the Lord and His Law. I asked myself over and over, "Aren't I doing that? I serve Him and love Him." But graciously the Lord revealed to me the missing link. I had an idol in my life and God was not my first love! Therefore I was not delighting in the Lord and His Law because His Law states to love Him with all my heart, strength, mind and soul. It also says that He is a jealous God and will not tolerate affection to another god AND He says that we cannot serve two masters. I was in offense for all three of these! I am sure that there are more, but I had to stop looking! I just couldn't take any more evidence against me! </span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">If joy is found when we delight in Him and His Law, but we are not abiding in Him or His Law, then ... ta-da, there is no joy! It is simple math! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">There are more causes for the absence of joy, but I'll save that discussion for another time. I do suggest that if you find yourself to be "joyless", do a word study for yourself and as you seek God's wisdom, He will reveal your missing link. Some of the verses that speak of joy are; Deuteronomy 12:7, Psalm 1:2, Psalm 5:11, Psalm 119:24, 35 and Proverbs 8:30b-31, just to name a few! </span>C. Sheltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06615191342580102651noreply@blogger.com0