Saturday, July 7, 2012

"Treading Deep Water"



Have you ever felt as if you were treading deep water? Afraid to stop treading and take the plunge for fear of drowning? I would say for most people this is a good sign of wisdom. Treading water is harder than swimming, but if you can’t swim, then tread. In other words stay afloat. By some unknown magic you will soon be back on dry land. I guess I am an optimist. “All is well when we are miserable.” Just keep looking and expecting a more favorable outcome. One has to admit they have made a few mistakes that put them into deep water in the first place, but life without mistakes is like believing in the tooth fairy. Its good for awhile, but soon there is no more teeth to exchange. The tooth fairy starts waiving good-bye. Just today I saw two young birds lying dead on the ground under a pecan tree in my yard. Evidently they had decided to take the plunge. Maybe their mother forced them out of the nest, they did look well past the first step stage, and maybe they finally decided to fly on their own. Either way a wrong decision was made at that time. They should have treaded water awhile longer. Then there is the possibility they might have starved if the mother had said enough is enough.

When its time to get out of the water, with a sink or swim attitude, we will have made a choice that only God can attest to. Do you believe He will certify your decision? No matter what you determine is best for you, most likely God will agree and support you all the way. My advise is, just don’t make the plunge without asking Him for guidance. I have a premonition that someone who will read this article is now ready for the plunge. May you have the best of sailing with a smooth surface to land on.

God bless

Myrtle Jean Sharp

 




















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Tuesday, July 3, 2012

"Never Too Busy To Share"

The past two weeks have been extremely busy for me. First we had all four

of our children, and a son-in-law and a daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren here with us for two days and nights. We had a great time, but got little rest. Too much excitement was going on. Mostly eating lots of good food. Everyone found a job that needed to be done and pitched in and got a lot accomplished. How nice it was having someone else doing our work for us. We hope they come again soon. The following week we spent four nights in Oklahoma City and one night in Weatherford, Oklahoma. Charles had Dr. appointments in the City and I managed to attend my school reunion at Weatherford on the fifth night. My loving husband was tired, but he would not let me miss the reunion, although he stayed in the motel room. I thoroughly enjoyed the evening visiting with old friends and feasting on a scrumptious meal. By the time I got to the room I was barely coasting. I slept well and after having an early breakfast at the Mart we headed for home. The best part of the trip was getting back home.

I had just received an order of my latest novel the day before we left. I sold several at the school event. It is now on the market and can be purchased at
www.xlibris.com www.amazon.com www.barnesandnobel.com The price is set by the publishers at $19.95 plus taxes and shipping. I will mail the books for $24.00 with tax and shipping included. My address is Jean Sharp 1114 Michigan St. Perryton, TX 79070. Phone 806 648 1900. I will sign all books that I mail out. The name of the book is ABOVE OR BELOW. It is a science fiction novel and is sure to keep your attention from the start to the finish. Learn how a young married couple survived for nearly two years of aliens threats in the rugged mountains of Colorado. They held on to their dream which came true.

Be back in a few days. Until then God bless.

M. Jean Sharp





 

Saturday, June 16, 2012

"America The Sleeping Giant"

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The number one question today is how did the most powerful nation in the world get into the mess its in today? First of all, it came about by being dishonest. The best way for politicians to get elected was to deny themselves their true beliefs and settle for the things that would help them get elected. Unfortunately, the candidate with the most exciting promises, for those of less privileges, were most likely to be voted in. The list is long and varied of laws that were made to benefit the foreigners, as well as the illegal ones who were already here in the U.S. In other words its like we turned our country gradually into a ‘holy hell’ of unwelcome foreigners and some who were welcomed, but should not have been. “We the people” have had to conform to other languages, accept unwanted laws, because of some of these new citizens, and risk our own lives every day to bombs and other destructive devices by enemies swarming like flies. The politicians had to keep their word even when they knew they had denied their true conscience to rightly act in order to get elected. If and when a president stands up to the principles that got him elected, an army of rebels, (U S citizens,) are trying with all force possible to get him out of office. The point I’m trying to make is because of dishonesty, and comprise, even at its lowest level, is by all means, the paved road to trouble and eventually defeat. The U S has by far too many citizens and non-citizens from other countries who want to take our freedom away. It is coming down to a civil war in my opinion.

The reason for me to write this kind of article is because of disagreement I have with those who make remarks like this; “We all got ourselves into this mess so let us all work together and get ourselves out of it.” Maybe a good thought, but one that will never happen. I believe our country will always remain the best and the most powerful, but not without much bloodshed and sweat from every brow. We have already seen much of that, but much is yet to come. Our most reliable source is the Almighty Power of God. Until America gets back to the foundation for which this nation was built upon it cannot stand firm much longer. To all of those who are looking for an easy way out, don’t kid yourself; Its up hill all the way from now on out.

God bless America

Myrtle Jean Sharp
















                                                        





Wednesday, June 13, 2012

"ABOVE OR BELOW OR WHAT"

                                                     

I received a telephone call today from a friend telling me how much she was enjoying reading my new book, “Above or Below.” I was pleased, but absolutely shocked that she was so deeply drawn into this book. It would be nice to get a lot more of those kind of calls. The book is ready for printing and should be available to order right away. Xlibris.com or 888-795-4274 ext. 7879. Arthur Myrtle Jean Sharp. The book is partly true and partly fiction. Its everyone’s guess which is and which is not. I personally don’t want to go close to the setting of this novel for fear I might become a victim of it. You will just have to read to know what I am talking about. This book is a mystery within a mystery. The fact that it took 32 years to complete is a mystery. The plot or storyline is full of mystery, some of which is left to the reader’s own imagination. I painted the picture on the book cover to depict the story. It makes the story seem more real. Of course it would have taken another book to hold all the paintings of every scene, but the reader’s mind is a good snapshot flash its self. I am hoping that the mind of everyone who reads this book will hold those mental pictures for a very long time. In time everything they read may come true.

Here’s hoping that many will order this book and enjoy it as much as the caller today did.

God Bless

Myrtle Jean Sharp

Monday, June 11, 2012

"Landry's Seafood and Steakhouse Perryton Texas"



Today at First Christian Church was the ‘once-a-month’ pot luck dinner. The church board meeting always follows the good meal. The group serving the meal today decided to serve it Landry style from Branson Missouri. It was a perfect model of the real Landry’s Food served the Landry’s style. What a great job the cooks and waiters did! After going through a line to select your own food, a table with attractive cloth and centerpiece was inviting you to sit down. Soon after being seated a tall slender guy with a very loud voice started yelling, “hot roll anyone?” When he saw a hand go up he immediately threw a hot roll at them before they had time to prepare for the catch; however everyone seemed to catch it just in time. Charles saw our pastor walking to a table with a plate in one hand and a drink in the other. The waiter yelled out, “ hot roll pastor?‘ Then the roll was tossed several yards to land in the pastor’s plate with him juggling it to keep it from falling out. How exciting it was! At first a few hearts started pounding, but everyone quickly got adjusted to it. The laughs never stopped. A waitress was walking the isles constantly with bowls of side dishes, offering more delicious food. This group did a great job in feeding the flock, and we hope they will do it again; however it won’t be as exciting the next time because everyone will know what to expect.

What a blessed people we are to have such wonderful food and fellowship in a time such as we are living now with so much uncertainty. The love of God will no doubt take us through every dark trial we may be faced with. It certainly is a time when we must stick together forgetting all past hurts and disappointments, vowing to be all that God wants us to be. The old saying, “we can kill our enemies with love,” just may be true, that is if they don’t have a gun pointed at us.

God bless

Myrtle Jean Sharp

 

 

 

 

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Sunday, June 10, 2012

"Will You Dare Stand Up For Jesus"

                                                  

 

Am I, yes I am tough enough to take the sharp darts that Satan throws at me almost every day. Healing comes quickly when we tell God we need His spirit to kiss our wounds. He never fails to kiss the pain away.



Satan’s arrows are tossed by real live persons whom want to exalt their importance as they imagine it. Both Satan and the shooters are then elevated to a place where more darts can be thrown with much greater force. It would be wrong for me to say these followers of Satan know that they are his helpers. Like the scribes and Pharisees, they are trying to help Jesus out by telling him what Moses would have done when a woman was found in the act of adultery. “Stone her to death,” they informed Jesus. At least the scribes and Pharisees were not relying upon their own judgment. They did ask Jesus what He would do. Jesus didn’t throw a dart at them. He simply said, “he that is without sin, let him cast the first stone”. The accusers disappeared quickly.

The scribes and Pharisees kept only the part of the law that they liked. How true it is today when people justify their acts by their own desires and not by God’s word. It should be a shame for people to represent the church of God with worldly suggestions appearing from head to toe. Where is the reverence that was so divinely instructed by the early church? Where is the reverence and respect that I was taught as a child growing up a few years ago? Where is the respect we used to have for our own bodies, never a tattoo, or a relaxed dress code, that moved the mind away from the presence of God?

In keeping with the teaching of the Holy Bible, we are going to get pierced by the fiery darts of Satan. It will not make us popular in this world but, it will merit us a great reward in the world to come. Are we going to save our neck or serve our God?

God bless

Myrtle Jean Sharp

 

Thursday, May 31, 2012

"My Incredible Memory Garden"

                                             

Today is not mothers day, but since we were celebrating memorial day at church, I was also reminded of my wonderful mother. She was so special to me, but I failed to tell her that. I did a lot of nice things for my mother, but if she was still here, I would do more. She has been gone for nineteen years, but it seems like only yesterday. I can still see her standing before the mirror making her beautiful face look more beautiful with the Cody and Max Factor make-up she used so often. She taught me to make her delicious yeast rolls and loafs of bread, but most of all she taught me to love everyone even when they were unlovable. I have lost many loved ones, and I have wonderful memories of them all.

Today was the day to especially remember all of those who fought for our freedom, and those who died for that cause. I can never thank them enough. My daily prayer is, “Lord help me to do more for all who are involved in keeping my country free. Bless them to the fullest.” I can’t do a lot with finances, but I can, and do give some. I help in several other ways, even if it is just a yard sign, or a telephone call to support those whom I believe in. I do a lot of writing, even if it may not be reaching a lot of people, and even though I am not a choice writer, I believe God’s word when He said, “My word shall not return to me void.” Among my incredible memory garden I have planted many words of everlasting truth. I believe that some day my memory garden will spring up and blossom from all the seeds I have planted, and my many loved ones and friends will be there to help me celebrate.

I want to share one of my favorite quotes from an American editor and critic. He taught at Yale for twenty years. Henry Seidel Canby.

“Good writing is always a breaking of the soil, clearing away prejudices, pulling up of sour weeds of crooked thinking, stripping the turf so as to get at what is fertile beneath. It would be amusing to carry the simile further. Those bulbs that flower in the sand and wither! The gay fiction annual that has to be planted again every year! Those experimental plants from Russia, France, and Greenwich Village that are always getting winter killed-----confound ‘em!----is it worth while planting them again? The stocky perennial that keeps coming up---so easy to grow and so ugly. Scarlet sage that gives a touch of fiery sin to the edge of the suburbanite’s concrete walk! And then the good flowers---as honest as they are beautiful! The well-ordered gar den! The climbing rose that escapes and is the most beautiful of all!

Henry Seidel Canby

Mr. Canby recognizes the mixture of God’s beautiful and ugly flowers. He also admits that all must be cared for in their own way. Some require much work, while others require little. Do we get to pick and choose which of God’s flowers we want in our flower garden? “God help us to love them all.”

“Every life is a flower in God’s bouquet.”

Myrtle Jean Sharp

 

 

 

 

Thursday, May 24, 2012

"Love With The Love of God"


Charles and I were sitting out on our front porch enjoying the cool evening breeze. We were watching the sprinklers across the street shooting out long streams of water on the high school playing field. Graduation is Saturday night and as soon as the grass greens up on the practice field, the young boys will start playing flag football. This has been a habit of ours for forty- four years. That is how long we have lived in this house. All four of our children graduated from Perryton High School just a few steps from our house. Our roses and flowers have done exceptionally well this summer and we are so blessed to sit out and enjoy their beauty and sweet smell.

I know that some day this home will belong to someone else, but I thank God for all the years we have lived here. I thank Him for every child and grandchild He has blessed us with. If I keep my eyes upon Jesus I will not be dragged through the pits of hell that I believe is near to our nation. I am ready to trade this home for a better home on high.

It saddens me to know that many families have parted ways because of twisted thoughts that God could have straightened out if only the halo could have been removed. Blind eyes could not be opened because of an undiscerning spirit that the victim would not let go. First and foremost false pride had captured the, would-be lovely creature, God had chosen to bless. Sickness and death came too soon for that person of folly. I have personally known such persons I just spoke of, and I feel like I failed when trying to help them. Their hearts seemed made of stone, and nothing was going to change them. Some hate victims I have dealt with were healed after much exposure to the Word of God, but never doubt that it was a miracle of God.

A smile is part of the attire we should wear every day, but be informed that some smiles have a secret to them. Let us be true to our smile and bring a smile to others.



God bless all the lovers of humbleness.

Myrtle Jean Sharp

 

Sunday, May 20, 2012

"Searching For Answers"

“Searching For Answers”

We just returned from Oklahoma City after laying another family member to rest. Delbert Lee Trammell was my youngest sister’s husband. He passed away May the 13 after a long battle with cancer. He was 67. His funeral service was attended by a large number of family and friends. Several beautiful floral arrangements adorned his casket. He was a man that words have not been found to properly describe him. A man of several personalities. He leaves a wife of 47 years, Shirley Ann Cope Trammell, five sons, 2 daughters, and several grandchildren and great grandchildren to grieve. Rev. Ronnie Cope, nephew of Shirley Trammell, conducted the service. Like he has done with several previous family funerals, he touched the grieving hearts with a special love that only God can give.

Many of us who are left to wait our turn to depart from this life should think seriously about how we have judged others. When God created man He had a plan and a purpose for each and every one. I don’t believe I am ready to tell God that any one of His created beings didn’t fulfill His plan for them. Life in this earthly body is short at best, but it holds many deeds of both good and bad which have to be acknowledged by God on that great and final day. At every funeral I have attended where Rev. Ronnie Cope has ministered he has emphasized the need to love and forgive. I saw an uniformed law officer standing at the back of the funeral chapel where my brother-in-law was entered for his final good-byes. I had never seen this before, but was aware that things have changed a lot in the past few years. Some good friends whom I have great respect was telling me about a family member of theirs where the funeral had to be conducted twice. A split family would not all attend the same service. It is so hard for me to imagine such a terrible strife among a family. I know there has been hate in this world ever since its beginning, but you and I don’t have to let it enter into our hearts; but if it does, work and pray very hard to get it out. Hate is death almost ready to strike.

I believe that an evil spirit dwells among us now more than ever. That spirit is growing stronger only because the Christians are growing weaker. Its much easier to turn our backs on acts of sin than to make it known to people. No one wants to hurt or insult anyone, but is that the way Jesus was? Absolutely not. He let people know when they were sinning. Does that mean Christians are the same as Jesus? Absolutely not, but it means Christians must quote God’s word day in and day out, even if it makes someone mad. We should never try to enforce God’s word, but always make it available. That is all God asks of us.

God bless

Sunday, May 13, 2012

"A Place For Mom"



A man stopped at a flower shop to order some flowers to be wired to his mother who lived two hundred miles away. As he got out of his car he noticed a young girl sitting on the curb sobbing. He asked her what was wrong and she replied, “I wanted to buy a red rose for my mother, but I only have seventy-five cents, and a rose costs two dollars.” The man smiled and said, “Come on in with me. I’ll buy you a rose. He bought the little girl her rose and ordered his own mom’s flowers. As they were leaving he offered the girl a ride home. She said, “ Yes, please! You can take me to my mother.” She directed him to a cemetery, where she placed the rose on a freshly dug grave. The man returned to the flower shop, canceled the wire order, picked up a bouquet and drove the two hundred miles to his mothers house.

This is just one of the several things I heard today, Mother’s Day, that brought tears to my eyes. Our young pastor, in his prayer to God, was sure to let Him know that all of the wonderful things He had given a mother to raise her children by, was greatly appreciated by her children. For a few minutes I felt like a queen who had just been crowned. I believe every mother there felt the same way. Each mother as she entered the sanctuary was given a long stem chrysanthemum. Several bouquets were presented to mothers for children driving the farthest to see her, the mother with the oldest child, the mother with the youngest child, and several other honorable mentions. How good it feels to be a mother who is loved by her children, but I could not keep from thinking about all the little children who never had the love of a mother. For various reasons this is the case many times. Then I think of the little children who loved their mother even when she was taking their life. One little seven year old boy in particular, who watched his mother drown his four younger brothers and sisters in the bathtub. He tried desperately to escape, but all doors were locked with a key. When it was his turn to die he pleaded, “mother please forgive me. What have I done?” I would especially ask that all loving mothers remember to pray for the unloved children who love their mothers as much as yours love you.

Blessings to all mothers’

Myrtle Jean Sharp

Monday, May 7, 2012

"One Human Step is Like a Million Miles With God"


Tonight I called God to come and visit with me. He made one step and was here. That is how big God’s feet are. If you think God is too far away to invite Him to your home, just call Him and find out. When people quit putting limits on God’s ability to do anything they ask, then they shall have whatsoever they ask in Jesus’ name.

I knew God was with me within moments after I asked him to come. I told Him about my worries and how low I was feeling. He didn’t scold me for feeling sorry for myself, or tell me about all of His troubles. He just lifted me up and said, “ whenever you fall again, just give me a call.” How great and how wonderful it is to have God on my side. Oh! How I long so much to see many of my friends and loved ones come to the knowledge and understanding of how big God’s feet are, and how much He wants to come and visit them. The human imagination is just not clever enough to believe God’s word. There is a quote made by an unknown person that states, “The simple believe everything, but the clever consider their steps.” What does that mean to you? To me it means, I am simple enough to believe every word in the bible, while clever enough to ask God to explain it to me. I am dedicated enough to Him to accept His instructions no matter what they may be.

Family and friends are wonderful lean-posts, but God’s beam-post is the one and only that will not give in. It stands through out the ages for support to the weak eaglets we are. I think the famed Italian journalist, Italo Calvino, explains it correctly with his quote. “The unconscious is the ocean of the unsayable, of what has been expelled from the land of language, removed as a result of ancient prohibitions.” Do we really have to explain our problems to God? Certainly not. God already knows about our concerns, but we do have to ask him for help when we feel like we have forgotten the first letter of the alphabet.

I cannot close this comment without giving you a comment from Jesus. Luke 6: 35

“But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.”

God bless

Myrtle Jean Sharp

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

"God Bless Our Patio"

Today marked the completion of two weeks hard work remodeling our screened-in patio. My husband and I did all the work except for a few holes that had to be drilled into the cement. When I asked our wonderful neighbor, Doug, why we couldn’t get the bit to drill into the cement, he just said, “ because you are not using a hammer drill.” He quickly got out his big hammer drill and within minutes the screws were in the concrete. My 85 year old husband, Charles, and myself, 79, did all the rest, but not without nearly killing each other. It seemed as though his way of patching and repairing didn’t agree with my way of doing it. He was sure he knew and I was sure I knew. Like two kids neither wanted to give in to the other. Remember this was a patch up and piece together all kinds of different gadgets to put the large screened patio back together and in place, after 20 years of Panhandle wild blowing winds. My good neighbor walked up on us just about the time I was fixing to lower the boom on Charles. I said, “excuse me Dough, I’m sure glad I saw you in time. I’m sure you have never heard me yell at Charles.” Since there is just a 6’ fence between his yard and ours, he sheepishly grinned at me and answered, “huh, aye oh no.” I have to admit we both used strong words against each other, but every word had, “with all my love written on it.” This was the best scream match we have ever had. We loved every minute of fixing this patio. I only fell off the ladder once, and Charles really screamed then. I had to yell at him before he would let me go back up. Of course he was bared from the ladder. All of the wood has been painted white and there was a lot of trim since the whole patio is screened in. Even the cement floor has a new coat of grey paint. We will be painting the patio furniture tomorrow and I will be putting some pictures on my face book wall.

With a roof overhead, fly and mosquito proof screened walls, and a large charcoal grill setting by, we hope to feed many friends and family at our newly remodeled steakhouse. Come any time one and all. Not only will we feed you meat from the feet, but meat from the word of God.

God bless

Myrtle

Monday, April 30, 2012

“A Prayer For Happiness”

In our church services this morning our pastor included in his prayer a plea to God that I have recently been trying to explain in my own words. The plea was this. “God help us to live a happy life and not be ashamed about our past sins.” I have always believed that God forgives all sins when people sincerely repent, but no matter how hard we may try to live the perfect life, the scares of our sins remain. No one who has truly repented and is trying to live an exemplary life can keep a regrettable past hidden. Some may believe that all sin is equal. I have to disagree with that. I would rather face a judge with a misdeanure charge than a felony charge. I would rather be a person of lawful sin than one of unlawful sin. In my way of thinking there are many terrible things that one can do without breaking the law of the land, but those terrible things breaks God’s law. God also judges from the degree of sin. Anyone who has had a shameful past will always be tormented by it in some way. That is why I plead with younger people especially, not to indulge in making tattoos on their bodies or having sex before marriage. Both can cause one to regret and be ashamed for life. Just because this is the year of 2012 is no sign that God has changed. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. These two sins along with several others can put scars on people that will follow them to the grave. That is why myself and pastor Dan ask God to help us live a happy life and not be ashamed of our past. I am not or have never been a seeker of popularity. My messages have caused me to be very unpopular, but I am determined to get God’s word out to those who honesty don’t know right from wrong. I do have scars of sin in my life, but I thank God that they are covered by Jesus’ blood. I thank God also that I was taught at a young age the principles of good morals.

God bless

Myrtle Jean Sharp

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

"You Tube Next Best To Being There"

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I was honored to be invited to a Kay and Britt Rice lecture featuring James Carville and Mary Matalin on February 24, 2012. The event was held at the Annenberg Presidential Conference Center at the George Bush Presidential Library Center. The program was sponsored by the George Bush Presidential Library Foundation. I was not able to attend this special event, but I did watch it on You Tube. I was impressed when James Carville and wife, Mary Matalin entered the stage. They both presented a personal savvy that was untouchable. I had seen this couple on TV many times, but not to compare with this explicit style. They both pleased my happy spot and I am still energized by their rare courage. Mary is a republican strategist and political commentator and James is a democratic strategist and political commentator. This couple have been married for several years, and I suppose have never had a disagreement. Is there a lesson to be learned by most of us? “Love covers a multitude of political differences.” If James can just keep both of his legs from going to sleep and if Mary can keep her behind bouncing there is no telling what this couple can accomplish.

Hats off to Mary Matalin and James Carville.

Myrtle Jean Sharp

Sunday, April 22, 2012

"Never Enter a Race Without Certainty of Winning"



A bold statement to make, but certainly a requirement. Winning is achieved by never giving into despair. If a contest is open to any who may wish to enter, and if seemingly you have no qualifications, except a burning desire to defeat the challenger, “go giant go.” If you are headstrong, obstinate and dangerously self-opinionated, you are qualified. If your reason for winning is worth fighting for, go with a mind-set to win. A courageous attitude with gather a lot of fuel needed to win a race.

I am writing this article with a past experience of my own in winning a race. It was not one that I want to boast about, but I can truly say I made the valiant effort to lead a group of people to the victory line. I had a good reason for winning and was chosen to take a leading part. I felt confident before I accepted the challenge. Not everyone felt that way about me, but I was the one to decide if I was capable or not. The choice is mine and yours. Do we want to make a difference in this world? There is always something we can do to fulfill that desire. The most important thing is perseverance. If we set a goal for ourselves it’s a lot easier to accomplish our mission. We will stay focused on the right picture we want to paint. A picture perfect of our minds faithful expressions.

I challenge you today to pick a mission you want to travel on. Keep in mind rewards come with , “mission accomplished.” While you are helping someone else to achieve, you are receiving an honorary award. Every good person deserves a good taste of flattery once and awhile, so be ready to accept with gratefulness.

Respectfully

Myrtle Jean Sharp

Sunday, April 8, 2012

"Easter At First Christian Church Perryton Texas"

Today a beautiful Easter Service at The First Christian Church, Perryton, Texas was presented. A large cart of multiple colored, live flowers was overflowing waiting to be passed out to every one attending the Special Easter Service. Every person would take their flowers to the front of the church and place them in a wire cross which represented  the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Even the little children were taking the time to place their flower in the right place they had chosen. The music was emotional as long lines of people waited to place their flowers in the cross. When all had finished with the offering of lovely flowers, the cross was lifted to the stage and remained through out the service. Rev. Dan Anderson concluded the service with a message that seemed to touch everyone in a personal way. The church was filled to capacity.Every person was wearing a glittering smile. Even a little eight month old baby boy was wanting to give everybody a, "high-five." How precious it was to be in the Easter Service this morning. My thoughts wondered about how much longer will we be privileged to enjoy such wonderful, uplifting services. I do beleive the hand of evil is at work today trying to take our most holy God and Savior away from us. My advice to all is, stand firm against every foe that tries to take away your faith in Jesus Christ. He lived, died and was resurrected for our sins, and that is the truth now and forever. Let us praise Him daily for His great love.
God bless
 Jean Sharp

Thursday, April 5, 2012

"How Far is Far Enough"

How many times has many of us said, "that's it, I'm not going any farther, enough is enough?" A lot of people who have made this statement, unfortunately, have kept their word. Others don't seem to believe that they have a choice to quit forgiving. Jesus told the man who was questioning him about how many times must one forgive, " seven times seventy," was the answer. In other words, there is no place in your life that you can stop forgiving. "Then what about me," you may ask? "If no one is ever going to listen to me, then I'm through with them." I believe God gives us peace over our heavy burdens when we feel sure that we're being treated unfairly. We may not get it our way, but never doubt, God is the winner in the end. Those who wouldn't consider others feelings, maybe because they thought they were superior over others, just be sure they will suffer the consequences. A Godly hurt is better than a Satanic punishment. I personally know a few people who left this world being unforgiven by their loved ones. I also know some who left this world with unforgiving hearts. Some were parents who disowned their children because the child didn't live up to their standards. I can truly say that everyone who did not forgive has paid dearly.
     I suppose God gave me this message for all who may be suffering now because of unfair consideration by some, while still others are trying to control the whole army and need to realize that God is real, and will really do what he says he will do. If any of you think that you are mightier than God, and know how to handle things better, woe! be unto you. Much sorrow will come to those who do not love and respect their brothers and sisters. God asks the question, "how can you say you love God when you love not your brothers and sisters?"  I pray all who are reading this will stop and think about eternity. It is real and it is for everyone, both good and bad.
God bless
Jean Sharp

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

"If You Don't Use It You Lose It"

Many times I am reminded of this phrase. "If you don't use it you lose it." This morning I was awakend at 5:00 with these words coming to mind. What did it mean, I asked myself. Then I began to get an answer. Most everyone thinks of this phrase as being related to the physical body. If the body does not get the proper exercise it starts to lose muscle tone. In other words if one doesn't use their body energetically it becomes stiff and harder to manipulate. The brain requires the same kind of treatment. One must use the brain daily in a passionate manner or it becomes enslaved to the body. The body is totally useless without the brain. Both body and brain need to be exercised energetically every day. If not, it loses a lot of value to our society. As long as we keep trying we will be of some value to ourselves as well as to others. I believe everyone has talent. If we will just be ourselves, we will bring forth some good in this world. Let us never say, "if I can't be the best, I will quit trying." Louisa Alcott said it best. "Talent isn't genius, and no amount of energy can make it so. I want to be great, or nothing. I won't be a commonplace dauber, so I don't intend to try any more. The phrase is surely true, "if you don't use it you lose it." Let us all keep using what God has given us even if some think He hasn't given us anything.
God bless
Jean Sharp

Sunday, March 18, 2012

"Paul Did The Right Thing"

Paul’s Girdle

by Mike Verdicchio on September 8, 2011 Print this article
From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”
[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.” As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.
In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn't mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]
There is a very interesting event that is recorded in Acts 21. The Apostle Paul was staying in Caesarea at the home of Philip the Evangelist. Paul was on a journey to Jerusalem.
A prophet from Judea, named Agabus, came to the house with a message for Paul. However, the message he had for Paul was given to him in a rather dramatic fashion. Agabus took Paul’s girdle, bound his own hands and feet, and then told Paul, “Thus says the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owns this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.”
What was Paul’s “girdle?” We would call it a belt, or a sash or a cord. In many cases in Bible times, it was hollow, so the girdle served not only to secure flowing garments but also to carry money in.
There are other records in the Bible that show prophets delivering a message in a very dramatic way adding to their words something very visual. Isaiah, Ezekiel and others used this form of communication to call attention, to give a distinct and impressive idea of the subject, and, by engaging the imagination, to fix it in the memory.

What Was The Will Of God

So was Paul not supposed to go to Jerusalem? Was he wrong in going? Did he disobey God’s specific instructions?
Just a few days before arriving at Philip’s house, Paul was in the city of Tyre. While he was there, some disciples told Paul, through or by way of the Spirit, that he should not go to Jerusalem.
In the previous chapter, you can read of Paul getting information from God that if he went to Jerusalem, bonds and afflictions were waiting for him. God had warned him. Yet, Paul was determined to go to Jerusalem.
It is also very clear in Chapter 20 that it was Paul who decided to go to Jerusalem. It says that he determined to not go to Ephesus so that he could be in Jerusalem at the day of Pentecost. He was the one who decided to go to Jerusalem.
While in Miletus, he told them that he was going to Jerusalem, but that he was bound in the sprit. He was not free in the spirit, but rather he was bound. He even told them that God was revealing to him every day the consequences that would happen if he indeed went to Jerusalem.
So he proceeded on his journey. In Tyre, disciples told him by way of the Spirit not to go to Jerusalem. Then, the prophet Agabus gives Paul a message from God in a very dramatic fashion. The will of God for Paul is very clear.

The Conflict Over The Commas

Most Christians do not want to admit that Paul made a mistake by going to Jerusalem. So they ignore all the clear verses that show how God is trying to keep Paul out of Jerusalem, and instead focus on one verse, and let a punctuation mark settle the argument.
After all the daily warnings from God to Paul, as well warnings from others by way the spirit telling him not to go, then comes the dramatic warning from Agabus. Those who saw and heard what Agabus did began to cry and beg Paul not to go.
Paul’s reaction was very courageous. He asked them why they were crying and breaking his heart. He then told them he was not only ready to be bound at Jerusalem, but also to die.
Paul was very committed. His response to them at Phillip’s house sounds very courageous, but what good could Paul do for God if he were dead? How hindered would his ministry be if indeed he were bound as Agabus had foretold?
But alas, the next verse has a comma or two that many people use to “prove” that Paul going to Jerusalem was really the will of God. The verse, in the King James Version, says, “And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.” I don’t want to argue about commas, especially because in the original texts, there were no commas.
Adjusting the commas in that verse, or, even ignoring them, it could very easily read, “And when he would not be persuaded we ceased saying the will of the Lord be done.” In other words, Paul was not to be persuaded, so we stopped saying what the will of the Lord was.
Ignoring the many verses that clearly show what the will of the Lord was, and then using a comma or two to try and prove a point is a dishonest handling of the Scriptures.

Foretelling The Future

What Agabus foretold did indeed come to pass. That is the measure of a true prophet: what they declare will happen, does indeed happen. If it doesn’t come to pass, the Scriptures say to pay no attention to that prophet.
Today there are many voices coming from many places that are predicting and foretelling the future. Especially in reference to the worldwide economic crisis, you hear people making their predictions every day. Who are you listening to?
I do not claim to be a prophet; I am not predicting the future. But, like many, many people, I do believe there are some very serious days ahead before things can ever begin to turn around. And, I also know that our God is a very personal God.
Look at how God tried to get through to the Apostle Paul to save him from serious trouble. God did so much to keep him from going to Jerusalem. But, God did not overstep Paul’s free will.
God can give you guidance for your life, especially in these treacherous days that we live in. God’s love for you, just like His love for Paul, is unconditional and nothing can ever separate you from His love. But remember, God will not overstep your free will.
Put your confidence in God. Pay attention to His still small voice. Never be afraid to shift your direction for His direction.
Dueteronomy 18:22
When a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD has not spoken, but the prophet has spoken it presumptuously: you shall not be afraid [have reverence or regard] of him.
Acts 20:15 and 16
And we sailed there, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus.
For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.
Acts 20:22-24
And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:
Save that the Holy Ghost witnesses in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me [if I go there].
But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
Acts 21:3 and 4
Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden.
And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.
Acts 21:8-15
And the next day we that were of Paul’s company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.
And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.
And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.
And when he was come unto us, he took Paul’s girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus says the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owns this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.
And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him [Paul] not to go up to Jerusalem.
Then Paul answered, What mean you to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.
And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.
And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.
Mike Verdicchio
2011
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Resources There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written. The best I know of were written by Bishop K. C. Pillai. I have had the pleasure of listening to many recorded teaching by him.
He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced. But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window
Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon. The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics)
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{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Jean Sharp March 18, 2012 at 7:29 pm
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I am not a bible scholar, nor am I declaring that my divine wisdom is always correct, but here is my belief about Pauls journey to Jerusalem.The word plainly tells us that all sin has to be reaped. In other words even after we repent of our sins, and no matter how much good we do for God, we still have to bear the consequences of our past mistakes. Paul was a murder and killed many Christians before his converson. Even though God called him to be a special servant of His, and conditioned him for the new role, Paul still had acts of murder he had to pay for. I believe that is the case of every Christian today. Our past sins have been forgiven, but we still have the consequences to bear. The conscience is always ready to remind us of what we have already done, even though we never do those bad things again. That is why I make so many young boys and girls mad at me today. I want to impress upon them that the scriptures are one hundred percent true, and when it tells us,”that what-so-ever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. No one is exempt. Life for eveyone is, “bitter-sweet,” because all have sinned and come short of the Glory of God. God bless Jean Sharp
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Wednesday, March 14, 2012

"All Must Be Judged"

1 Peter 4:17-18. For the time is come that judgement must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?

One year ago I lost a very close friend. She had been a friend for 54 years. She was saved and filled with the baptism of the holy spirit many years ago. It was for many years she never missed a church service except for an impossibility. Back during those years three church services was always held every week. Real often revivals were held and sometimes would last for two weeks with services every night. People were always ready for church when the doors opened. They were hungry to hear the word of God. Each night after hearing the evangelist preach, people would leave the church feeling like they could go out and conquer the world. It seemed like nothing could sap their victory, and it seemed like people could never get enough of church.

My friend and I used to recall those good old days, comparing then to the church services of today. I heard this friend quote the scripture many times which asks the question. v. 18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? We went to church so much, worked, prayed, and helped in any way possible, yet we felt like we might barley make it to heaven. This friend was 86 years old when she just suddenly got sick and died. Before her death, she went like a house on fire every day. She loved life and she loved the Lord. She wanted to live forever. I'm not saying this friend was perfect, but I miss her so much. There are few old time Christians left who have lived the full gospel life to the fullest and I need to reunite with some so much. There is no doubt in my mind that the church which the Apostle Paul talked about is gone forever. I also believe that in a short time we modern Christians will not be allowed to have our own church as we know it now. For the time is come that judgement must begin at the house of God. Are we ready for that day?

God bless
M.Jean Sharp