How many times have you felt stuck in the middle of an argument by two people that you love? You can see both sides of things, but there’s an impasse and the relationship appears to be falling apart, or the opportunity will be lost and at no small cost to those involved. In the case Read More
Posts by Shannon
The Hidden Lies Behind “Being Saved”
Ever notice how people react these days, to the question of “Are you saved?” The meaning and ‘punch’ of what that question meant has become blurred through time and one horrific life event after another. Whether watched over the news or experienced in your personal life, if you have been “saved” you may wonder why Read More
Communication Assumptions are Deadly!
Are you being challenged in your relationships? Whether that relationship is with your spouse, your friend or a congregational member, making assumptions about what they “really” mean – can be deadly. The death of many a relationship has been caused solely by blind assumptions regarding motives and intentions. As a leader in a church, or Read More
Is it Racial or Behavioral?
Yesterday I received, along with a host of other people, a string of Tweets from someone we all know and love dearly. This sweet man was visiting a city that he was not completely familiar with. While there, he decided to take a walk and, as is his nature, became deeply engrossed in his thoughts Read More
Fireworks When The World Has Stopped
Today is the 4th of July. I almost forgot what day it was because I’ve been focused on some projects. Realizing this, I was reminded of another day in 1984 … My Mom and I were driving home after spending yet another day sitting at my Father’s bedside. He was dying of cancer and had Read More
What’s in Your Toolbox?
Here’s some of my favorite resources: Dr. Carolyn Leaf Anthony Robbins John Maxwell Byron Katie TED Bob Proctor Dr. Phil Resources like this is what I call my “Tool Box.” And for those who have just gasped that I dared mention resources that are not considered to be “Christian” or scriptural, may I remind you Read More
Dreams, Illusions, Perceptions and Realities
As long as I can remember, I’ve been acutely aware of my very colorful and realistic dreams. I suppose it comes with the territory of being an artist … or maybe I just decided to pay closer attention to them. There have been times that I have had a dream and it actually came to Read More
Sheep Eating Plants On The Prowl
Recently a friend sent me an article about this unusual and deadly plant. Everything about this living organism shouts METAPHOR! How well I know a wide range of individuals within churches of all denominations who patiently wait their time to feed on unsuspecting ‘sheep’ or fellow Christians. At first appearance, they seem harmless enough, with Read More
Wait a Minute … Have We Been Praying Wrong?
The other day while praying, I believe I began to receive an epiphany … I say began, because I’m still chewing on this … When we pray, we are asking God for favor (when He’s already given it) and supply (when He has already given it) and … well… you get the picture. So … Read More
How to Forgive When Forgiving Once – Just Doesn’t Cut It
Forgiveness is layered. The events that occur to cause bitterness are rarely one time events. Even if they are, they still take time to un layer them because of all the meanings that are instantly applied to the wretched event. Why do you think that Jesus said we should forgive 7×70 (Matthew 18:22)? Because it’s Read More
Is It REALLY What You Think It Is?
Several years ago, I stood at the back of the church after service as my husband finished preaching. The presence of the Lord was sweet and tangible. Many families had already left, but a few people lingered. One of the benefits of being a pastor is that you know the behind-the-scenes stories of the members Read More
How To Be Relevant in Your Communications
It seems obvious enough, but somehow, this issue of relevant and effective communication gets lost when it comes to communicating spiritual matters. When you are in a computer store, shopping for a new computer, your salesperson will assess where you are in your knowledge of electronics and speak to you accordingly so that you can Read More