Heaven Sent Sentiments

- Mom’s Homecoming with Jesus
  
  Posted at 3:39 PM by Shanon Crenshaw, on November 7, 2023
  Some seasons and events in our lives are so deeply ingrained into every part of our being that they often cross our minds, challenge us to grow in a more profound faith in God, and allow us to be used by God to comfort others in their suffering. The apostle Paul states in 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4 (ESV), “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”
  
  God continues to use my testimony to comfort others and to share the love and hope that only Jesus can provide. I am so thankful and blessed that He does because it keeps my mother’s memory alive and allows me to share the gospel with all the people God brings into my life. Soli Deo gloria!
  
  ***
  
  My mom, Sue, was the first to introduce me to Jesus. She did this in two ways: by living her life with a personal relationship with Jesus and having several conversations with me about Jesus, sitting Indian style on her king-size bed. During one of those conversations, just my mommy and me, I made a decision that changed my life and heart forever.
  
  I can still picture the bedroom – all browns, beiges, and avocado green circa the late 1970s! My mom and dad’s bed was near their bedroom door with nightstands on each side. Brownish-bronze lamps with beige lampshades graced each side table. A long, wooden mirrored dresser stood opposite the large window in their bedroom. I can picture it so clearly–like a Polaroid snapshot in time–because that moment changed my life forever. I made a personal dedication to Jesus that day, and I wanted Him to live in my heart forever. I was eight years old.
  
  God used my mother’s relationship with Jesus to change my life many years ago–and ten years later, He would do the same thing again–although this defining moment brought me to my knees in a desperate way.
  
  November 7, 1990, twenty-eight years ago today, (now 33 years ago when I first published this piece) my mother went Home to Jesus. She died three months after she was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 39. I was only 18 years old, and my heart felt literally broken, like it could never be the same again.
  
  If you know me and have read my blog, you know that I have touched on this several times. It is because this is the most significant life-changing moment in my life. God has used all of what I experienced through my mother’s death for His glory. He has taken every tear, heartache, and hurt and transformed them through His grace to joy, understanding, and love.
  
  This journey since the loss of my mom has not been easy, but Jesus has never left my side, and He has shown me that He was with me then, and He is with me now! I have testimony after testimony of God’s guidance, provision, and presence during those difficult days and our journey together thus far. It has been my experience that:
  
  “After the dust of a trial settles, we can see more clearly the footprints and fingerprints of God’s guidance, provision, and presence” (Crenshaw, Shanon 2015).
  
  I cannot begin to tell you the number of times God has placed people in my life to share my testimony on this, and I love it because my light shines bright because of Him! All the glory to God! Don’t you love it when He transforms a hardship in your life in such a powerful way, and then He gives you the privilege of sharing His light and love with others? It’s incredible!! 🙂
  
  I want to close with this. Time and time again, the scripture the Lord used the most in healing me was Psalm 139. He spoke life and peace to my heart by using the whole chapter at different times over the years. My favorite verse is: “…All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” Psalm 139:16. This particular verse has brought me so much peace. I love it. He is the God of all of my days.
  
  **This post two of my mom’s favorite things. At the time of her death, her favorite song was “Friends” by Michael W. Smith. It continues to be one of mine and I think of her whenever I hear it. Also, my parents had a print of this picture of Jesus hugging someone coming Home hanging in our house when I was growing up. It now hangs in my bedroom, by the door, and I see it every time I go there.
  
  Until we meet again, Mommy, with Jesus, your love and memory are in my heart daily!!
  
  All the glory to God,
  
  Shanon
  
  Image of Coming Home to Jesus! Giant Hug! by Pinterest.
  
  Image of Heaven in my Heart: A hug from Jesus by Heaven in my Heart blogstop.com
  
  Image of Friends by Michael W. Smith by likesuccess.com
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  Posted in Healing, Testimonies of Hope | 4 Comments | Tagged Christian blogger, Christianity, heaven, Jesus Saves
- God Empowered Dream
  
  Posted at 4:30 PM by Shanon Crenshaw, on November 2, 2023
  Dr. Carrie Wood, my thesis chair and I. Regent University graduation, May 2023.
  
  Good afternoon, and happy November! Here in the Pacific Northwest, where I live, we are deep amid fall, and I love it! From the comfort of my porch, I witnessed a few rain showers. A “V” of ducks squawking loudly with each other as they migrate to warmer climates. The wind swirling the colorful leaves around in magnificent ways causes me to pause and reflect on the beauty of God’s creation.
  
  It is great to be back. It has been quite a long time since I have posted a blog. Over the last few years, God had me going through one of the most spiritually and academically challenging seasons of my life. In fact, it was beyond my natural abilities that it required my complete dependence on Him. Most days consisted of prayer, study, research, and writing. Did I mention prayer? Yes, I did. But I need to repeat it because the copious amount of prayer and spending time in His presence IS what gave me everything I needed, through the power of the Holy Spirit, to graduate on May 6, 2023, from Regent University with a Master’s in Theological Studies. Soli Deo gloria!!
  
  Before I get ahead of myself and explain more about that season, let me be completely transparent about some of my educational background. I was that kid in elementary school who was pulled aside to the corner of the classroom for extra help with reading. I remember spending hours with my mom after school while we worked on my reading skills. My extreme shyness and low confidence further hindered my learning capabilities because I feared taking chances and failing. However, over time, I progressed to average grades through high school, with—thanks to my mom and Mrs. Tanner, my teacher—an insatiable appetite for reading. And I was great at it! Praise God!
  
  As I stated before, my grades were average in high school, but something changed in college. I realized that if I worked really, really hard, I could have honors-level grades. Wow, that is rocket science, right?! Work really hard and get excellent results…except that the hours I put in were looong. There were lengthy sessions of reading, studying, memorizing, using flashcards, visiting with my professors, analyzing lectures, and many, many hours of being “quizzed” by my family members so that I could finish well. If the course syllabus said the class required 10 hours of out-of-classroom work, I needed 20. For every class. In every subject. It did not take me long to realize that all those marathon study sessions—beginning with that little girl sitting on the couch with her mom with a strong desire to read—were powered by the Holy Spirit.
  
  That explanation was much more involved than I thought. Still, I want you to realize that I would not have completed graduate school without surrendering all to God and allowing Him to orchestrate every step and detail. My only job? Complete obedience to Him.
  
  But what God-inspired moment—detail—led me to graduate school? Well, let me fill you in.
  
  ***
  
  January 31, 2017, was a day filled with exercise, good friends, and a divine moment with Jesus. Here’s an excerpt from my unedited journal entry:
  
  It was a great day that started with gentle yoga. After that, I met [two ladies from church] for tea at Starbucks. God is awesome, and we had an amazing conversation.
  
  The thought even came to my mind that maybe I will get my master’s degree in theology of some sort. God’s plan and timing.
  
  Did you catch the very profound and highly accurate wording of that last sentence? God’s plan and timing. Surprisingly, I don’t remember giving much thought to the “seed” God planted that day. I just had a feeling that it was important enough to write down.
  
  Fast forward a few years. Yes, years to 2020. Not the beginning of the year but to November 30, 2020. Here is an excerpt of my unedited journal entry on that day:
  
  So on Sunday, after I finished listening to the Sunday morning message [because everything was online because of Covid], I had it on my heart to look at Christian Masters in Theology Universities….
  
  Once you get beyond all my grammatical errors, you realize that almost four years have passed since God planted that seed of going to graduate school for this degree into my mind! And let me tell you once He told me to investigate it, things moved fast. I was obedient in all that he called me to do in this process; less than a week went by, I was accepted to Regent University, pursuing the degree that He called me to, and enrolled in my first term. Praise God!!
  
  However, I began graduate school in June 2021 due to prior commitments. I knew I had to commit everything to my full-time, year-round class schedule. I attended Regent University from June 21, 2021, through May 6, 2023, until I graduated with my Master’s in Theological Studies, just like God whispered to my heart several years ago. He fulfilled a dream I didn’t know I had, especially when I reflect on how much God has transformed and developed all my God-given gifts, talents, and abilities for His Kingdom and Glory.
  
  Regarding this degree, God has only given me a glimpse into how He may use it in the future. And I am perfectly fine with that because I have learned over the years through many lessons, prayers, tears, and hard work that only God can take my “little” and turn it into so much more for His Glory! Ephesians 3:20 states, “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us…”
  
  All the glory to God,
  
  Shanon
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  Posted in A-Ha Moments | 0 Comments | Tagged Christian blogger, God's will
- “Spiritual GPS”
  
  Posted at 12:36 PM by Shanon Crenshaw, on March 30, 2021
  This morning I was reading ahead in my devotional, as I sometimes do, and April 2021 is focusing on trusting God. While I was meditating on the message, God reminded me of Proverbs 3: 5-6 (NIV). Which, by the way, was not the focus of that day’s lesson.
  
  “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
  
  in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
  
  Two words, from that scripture, were highlighted in my mind, “paths straight.” Suddenly, God gave me this image of myself, driving in my car, with a GPS mounted to my dashboard.
  
  While waiting for God to work in my life and answer my prayer, He asked me to “program in” Proverbs 3: 5-6 into my “spiritual” GPS.
  
  At the beginning of this journey, the path was mostly smooth, and I felt peace even with the few bumps that came along the road. It is easy to stay in my lane and remain focused straight ahead.
  
  After a while, I feel too restful in the quiet, so I turn the radio onto a popular country station. What follows are songs about loneliness, drinking, and love gone wrong, and slowly the problems of the world start enveloping my mind and soul.
  
  And yet, a gentle voice is calling me back to Him saying, “There is worship music plugged into three other channels on your radio. Come back to my rest through this, and I will bless your weary soul.”
  
  Not heeding the wise counsel, I continue listening to this music and notice my once smooth road contains potholes and debris. Now, my anxiety and worry are increasing, causing me to become distracted by all the things occurring off the freeway.
  
  Billboards soon begin coming into my view featuring promises for a better life if I just exit now.
  
  “Oh, the next exit has a bar. Is that where I can chase the feelings of fear away, if only for a moment?”
  
  Again, the gentle voice comes back to me. A little louder this time.
  
  “Stay in your lane. Do not stray from this path. I can give you more–so much more than you can imagine–if you let Me direct you to more than you ever thought possible.”
  
  Slowly, my heartbeat begins to settle and I allow myself to rest.
  
  As the miles tick by, I notice the path becomes a little bit easier.
  
  Mile 5 becomes mile 10. Oh, now 15 miles…
  
  “Did God leave me? Is He still directing my path?”
  
  The peace that surrounded me at the beginning of this journey has now been replaced with fear. This path feels endless and I feel my patience rising. Too much time has gone by. I need to get off this freeway and make my own way.
  
  Seeing an exit up ahead, I turn towards it, while ignoring the bells and whistles of danger going off in my heart and mind.
  
  Moving forward, in this lane I created, I encounter more potholes, curves, and danger than I have experienced this whole time.
  
  And yet, I still continue my own way, never once stopping to consider what I had programmed in my “spiritual GPS” when this journey started.
  
  Feeling weary, heartbroken, and so very tired, I spy something just ahead on the horizon.
  
  “Wait? Could it be?”
  
  “Yes, it is!!”
  
  I caught myself saying, “Praise God!” My answered prayer was up ahead. “God came through. He did hear me!”
  
  As I pulled up, I felt that same, small voice speak to my heart. “This was the destination I had for you from the beginning. My plans are to always prosper you and not to harm you. Trust in Me. Always.”
  
  At that moment, I felt a check in my heart.
  
  “Did I create those obstacles on my own? Was the fear, doubt, and insecurity intensified because of listening to the distractions around me?”
  
  I knew in my heart and soul that I could learn from my broken path by seeking forgiveness and redemption from the One that loves me forever and always–my Lord and Savior Jesus.
  
  With forgiveness in my heart, the Lord reminded me of two scriptures.
  
  “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NIV)
  
  “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning. Great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3: 22-23 (NIV)
  
  So, as I begin a new day with Jesus, I am going to program my Spiritual GPS with His Truth and the Word of God. However, today I am going to remember His Faithfulness from yesterday and apply it to today. And tomorrow.
  
  What about you? Who is directing your path today?
  
  All the glory to God,
  
  Shanon Crenshaw
  
  Works Cited:
  
  Image of Psalm 37: 23-24 by Heartlight.org. “God directs and restores Godly People.”
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  Posted in A-Ha Moments, Answered Prayers | 0 Comments | Tagged Gods will, Jesus Saves, Proverbs 3: 5-6, Stay in your Lane
- Praying For Our Brother
  
  Posted at 5:56 PM by Shanon Crenshaw, on May 29, 2020
  Words. That is the title of one of my favorite songs by Hawk Nelson. It can be found on their sixth studio album, “Made” and the first one to feature Jonathan “Jon” Steingard as the frontman.
  
  Jon Steingard made the news this week for more than just the amazing worship music he, and Hawk Nelson, create in their Christian band.
  
  He made a public declaration that he no longer believes in God.
  
  My heart was devastated when I heard this and I immediately began praying for him. He needs the most love, prayers, and support that we can give him.
  
  So much is being said about this right now on several news stations, but I was incredibly inspired by the words shared on Facebook by his brothers/fellow band members:
  
  “One of our best friends, one with whom we have walked, worked and lived alongside for 20+ years revealed some of his innermost feelings on his faith journey this past week. Our mission as Hawk Nelson has always been to inspire and encourage all people with the truth that God is FOR them and not against them. In that message’s most simple and purest form, that THEY matter. So now we turn that truth towards one of our own. That God is still FOR Jon & he still matters. Why? Because that truth doesn’t change just because we question it.”
  
  How we treat one another when they are at a different stage in their journey based on their life experiences is part of a bigger conversation. We are called to love one another unconditionally, as God loves us. We should also encourage and challenge one another in our Faith, seeking the truth” (newreleasetoday editorial).
  
  No judgment in those words, just pure, unconditional love and support when their (our) brother, Jon, needs it the most.
  
  More than anything, we need to be praying for him and his family. Apostle Paul, in 1 Timothy 2:1 reminds us about praying for others:
  
  “I urge, then, first of all that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—”
  
  Please join me in praying for him, and all the other people that the Lord may be bringing to your mind to pray and intercede for. I believe it is not only a responsibility to pray for others, but it is a gift as well. The love and prayer we have and share with others can affect them for eternity!! Amen!! So, keep praying, seeking, loving, and believing because God is ALWAYS at work!!
  
  On a personal note, several songs by Hawk Nelson have truly inspired me. I mentioned Words earlier, but I also love He Still Does (Miracles). If you have not listened to it before or it has been a while check it out. Those are the words we need to inspire us right now. God is ALWAYS at work and miracles are all around us and happening all the time!!
  
  Something to keep in mind as you continue to listen to their music. The message through their lyrics and their voices is from God, make no mistake where it came from. God gives the message, man is the vessel through which it is given. Keep listening to the worship music and let God minister to you through their gift and Him.
  
  Remember….
  
  A broken heart can be restored
  
  A broken soul can be reborn
  
  And greater things are still in store
  
  For us, for us [Hawk Nelson, He Still Does (Miracles)]
  
  All the Glory to God,
  
  Shanon
  
  Works Cited:
  
  McNeese, Kevin. “I No Longer Believe In God”-A Conversation About Jon Steingard. New Release Today Website. 27 May 2020. https://www.newreleasetoday.com/article.php?article_id=2862
  
  Image of “There is Power in Prayer” by http://www.AHealthyWebsite.com 29 May 2020. Web.
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  Posted in Community of Shared Hope, Healing | 0 Comments | Tagged Hope in Jesus, Jesus Saves, power in prayer
- Words Can Bring Death
  
  Posted at 4:20 PM by Shanon Crenshaw, on May 16, 2020
  “When led of the Spirit, the child of God must be as ready to wait as to go, as prepared to be silent as to speak.” ~Lewis Sperry Chafer
  
  Several days ago, I came across this quote in my “Walking with God” daily devotional by David Jeremiah. As usual, I was flipping into the months ahead and found these words to be such a revelation as to what God is working in and through my life. An answered prayer by God in so many ways.
  
  I mentioned in one of my last blog posts that I am doing a new 90-day bible study that requires praying in the Spirit for a minimum of an hour a day. In all honesty, I believe I will maintain this new way of praying even after this bible study is over. Every aspect of my relationship with God has changed.
  
  One of the biggest things that has changed is in relation to words—what I hear, what I say, what I read, and how God wants me to respond.
  
  Occasionally, I look at Facebook. I am rarely on it because there is so much negativity, but I do want to see what my family and friends have been up to.
  
  But lately, so much of what I see are conspiracy theories, negative thoughts about the government from both sides, sad commentary about people who are ultimately trying to do their best, etc.
  
  I came close to sharing my thoughts, but the Spirit put a check in my heart to stop. So, I did.
  
  The next day, during my prayer time, I was sharing all my concerns with God. My heart is so unsettled with all the dissension that is going on around me. God is the only one that I knew would give me the peace and the wisdom to move forward with this.
  
  That is when God answered my prayer with this quote. I immediately put it on Facebook because that is initially where all my anguish started. But God did not stop there, He revealed even more to my heart through the Spirit.
  
  In reality, my thoughts and opinions do not matter. Not really. Especially when they are born from hurt, a need to make my own voice heard, jealousy, and any other emotion that my self creates in the flash of one moment.
  
  But guess what? In that one moment, ALL of what God had been working in and through the hearts of all who read my words can be changed for a lifetime. That is why, “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” Proverbs 18:21.
  
  I do not want my words to tear down what God has been doing or working through in someone else’s heart or life.
  
  What if there is a new Christian reading my post or reply and God is bringing that person into revelation and a deeper relationship with Him. But because I only see on the outside what God is doing, I say something without thinking that damages and hurts them.
  
  I could completely undo all the fruit and goodness that God is trying to reveal in that person’s life. How tragic that would be! And all because I failed to heed the Words God has given us to speak life to others and to love everyone.
  
  I am so thankful to God for not only revealing this Truth once again to me but allowing the Holy Spirit to put that check in my heart to rest and wait on Him when speaking, especially with all matters closest to my heart.
  
  All the glory to God,
  
  Shanon
  
  Jeremiah, David. “Lewis Sperry Chafer quote.” 365 Daily Devotions Walking with God. Page 260. Christian Art Gifts. 2019. Print.
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  Posted in Conviction, God at Work | 0 Comments | Tagged Jesus Saves, Proverbs 18:21, speak life not death
- Mother’s Day, May 13, 1990
  
  Posted at 5:19 PM by Shanon Crenshaw, on May 9, 2020
  My sisters and I, late 1970’s
  
  Sunday, May 13, 1990. It was on this day, 30 years ago, that I spent my last Mother’s Day with you, Mom.
  
  Earlier this week, while I was thinking about the upcoming weekend, it suddenly dawned on me that all these years add up to three decades without you—physically—in front of me. However, I feel your presence around me in so many ways, especially in a spiritual sense.
  
  Mother’s Day 1990, as much as I can remember, was spent with a good meal, flowers, cards, and lots of love and laughter. Since I was only 18 years old at the time, I thought we would have years and years of Mother’s Days together. Yet, it was not to be. Oh, what my heart would share with you if I could go back to that moment in time and spend the day with you again.
  
  Because I cannot share it in person with you, I will share it with the world.
  
  ***
  
  There are many, many amazing memories I have with my mom in the eighteen years I spent with her. Going through them in my mind, I can honestly place the best of them in two categories and according to two scriptures:
  
  Matthew 22:37-40 ³⁷Jesus replied: “‘Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ ³⁸This is the first and greatest commandment. ³⁹And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ ⁴⁰All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
  
  In words and actions, my mom loved God first. I do not know who initially introduced my mom to Jesus because she was raised by alcoholic parents who in no way cared for any part of their children’s needs—physically, mentally, or spiritually. In fact, I believe many different family members took them in and cared for them.
  
  My mom Sue and I
  
  My mother was determined that her children would have a different upbringing than she did, and God was at the head of it. She read the Word, prayed, worshipped, and spoke about the Glory of God daily. I honestly do not remember a time in her life when Jesus was not a part of it.
  
  She was the first person that told me about Jesus, and that conversation never stopped. Over the years, we spent many hours talking about the Lord and all the good things He had done and will do. In fact, one of the last conversations we had before she died was about Jesus. And you know what is so amazing about ALL of that!?
  
  I feel the closest to my mom when I am at church, worshipping the Lord, reading the Word etc., because we bonded together the most over the relationship she and I had (have) with Jesus.
  
  I am so grateful that my mom allowed God to work so mightily in her and through her. That is the legacy she most wanted to leave- and when I think of her, I think of Jesus. I try extremely hard to live my life in the same way and want to daily put God first and live a life that honors Him—with my family, friends, and all those He brings into my life.
  
  ***
  
  “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love. One of the most important attributes that we can share with those we encounter throughout our lives. It is a choice we make.
  
  As a baby, I grew up not only knowing but feeling so much love from my mom and dad. In the way they cared for me, protected me, and told me very often. I never knew how bad my mom’s childhood was until she told me when I was older. That made me love her so much more. She could have chosen to hold on to all the hurt and pain of her past, but she did not.
  
  The deep capacity my mom had to love was a direct correlation to her relationship with Jesus and her surrender to His will in her life. Over time and throughout the years, I saw her express joy, hope, and love to so many people in her life–in day-to-day contacts and family relationships.
  
  It would take a long time to list all the ways my mom loved fiercely, from my dad and my sisters all the way down to the people my mom met in the grocery store—literally. I am going to share only two of the many I treasure!
  
  My mother was born and raised in Southern California, so when we moved back to this area in 1984, she resumed close relationships with two of her sisters living in the area we were in: my Aunt Ann and Aunt Irene. Years with both families gave me such good times and great memories with my Aunts, Uncles, and cousins. Oh, how I miss all of these get-togethers.
  
  Naturally, my mom shared her relationship with Jesus as often as she felt led because she loved everyone and wanted especially those closest to her to know her Savior and be saved.
  
  My mom was awfully close to my Aunt Irene. They shared a great love of Roger’s and Hammerstein musicals and great conversations. And, I was lucky enough to participate in both (and I still think of both when I watch Oklahoma! Or State Fair)!!
  
  One conversation stands out between my mom and my Aunt, it was about Jesus, and this conversation was quite different and so blessed by God. I do not know how to explain it, but I never forgot it and seeds were planted that day in my Aunt’s heart I have no doubt!!
  
  Fast forward several years and my mom passed away from cancer. This devastates my Aunt Irene, but we stay close. I love her so very much, as I do all my mom’s sisters and brother.
  
  A few years later my Aunt Irene was diagnosed with terminal cancer. It was during this time, and one of my last visits with her, that I had the most amazing conversation that I ever had with her. God was very present and very much a part of our conversation, I have NO doubt.
  
  Aunt Irene: Do you go to church? Are you a part of a church?
  
  Me: No, not really, not right now. We moved not that long ago—
  
  Aunt Irene: You need to get back in church, find a home church.
  
  Me: Okay, we will try, I promise.
  
  Aunt Irene: You need to. It is important that you do.
  
  She was incredibly insistent that my family and I get back in church. My Aunt and I have never had a conversation about church before. This conversation gave me so much hope in a changed heart in my Aunt, that the many conversations my mom had with her helped her see her need for Jesus.
  
  I have NO DOUBT that my Aunt is with Jesus in heaven and this conversation with her was my first glimpse into her changed heart. Amen!
  
  The other memory I would like to share happened at the grocery store. My mom had just finished her nursing classes, and we were at the store to pick up a few things for dinner. She had just expressed to me how exhausted she was, as we got in line to pay for a few things and placed them on the counter.
  
  There was an “old lady” in front of us, and she struck up a long conversation with my mom. My mom put on her best smile and spoke with her as though she had all the time in the world and that older lady was the most important person to her.
  
  After we paid and were leaving, I brought up their conversation and how sweet it was that she spoke to her. She said, “Shanon, she was so lonely and just needed someone to share her life with.” Such a simple act that I have never forgotten.
  
  That is my mom, even the simplest gestures are filled with love and Jesus—just like her life and legacy.
  
  My dad and his girls
  
  My dad, sisters, and I miss her like crazy and talk of her often because that is the way we keep her memory alive to her grandkids and great-grandkids that she has not had the pleasure to meet—yet!!
  
  All the Glory to God,
  
  Shanon
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  Posted in God's Blessings | 0 Comments | Tagged Christian blogging, Jesus Saves, Matthew 22: 37-40, mothers day
- Seasons of Change
  
  Posted at 6:27 PM by Shanon Crenshaw, on May 1, 2020
  Hello everyone! It has been weeks and weeks since I’ve posted. I apologize for that. I wish I had a really great, big “reason” to share with you, but I don’t. All I can say is this, God is at work in my life and is taking me into a different season.
  
  Season. My first response to that word is leaves changing in the Fall or how the Summer sunshine can initiate vacation plans or beach trips. After all, there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens…(Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV).
  
  But, Spiritual changes are what I am talking about, and going through—lessons on perseverance, faith, trust, prayer, and knowledge.
  
  Sixty days ago today–yes, I said sixty–I began a life and Spirit changing bible study by Jennifer LeClaire titled, “Transform: A 90-Day Spirit Prayer Challenge”. Here is a peak at the study from her website:
  
  “The 90-Day Spirit Prayer Challenge is a series of teachings, insights on praying in the Spirit and pray-along sessions that will encourage you to stay on track with what God said He wants to do in this prophetic word” (LeClaire, Jennifer).
  
  Daily, during the last sixty days, I have been watching each video, journaling and writing down scripture, and most importantly, praying in the Spirit for an hour each day. I can not put into words how much this Spiritual Prayer Challenge has transformed my life. Physically, mentally, spiritually….in ALL ways.
  
  I’ll admit, that it has been very challenging, but that fact has made me even more determined to keep my eye on the prize and to persevere with each prayer and scripture I learn.
  
  This morning, during my prayer time, the Holy Spirit reminded me of where I was this time last year. In Peace with where God was taking me during that season. I was getting ready to speak in front of a hundred people, two days in a row, for my church’s annual Divine Design Mother’s Day Celebration. There is no doubt in my mind that, that whole experience and season was God-ordained.
  
  Just in the same way, this one is.
  
  God carried me through that season with His Wisdom, as I placed my faith in what He was bringing me through during that time. And that is what I am doing today. Right now, I am not writing as much on my blog, but I know Who is bringing me through this chapter and this season. And, oh, what a season it is!!
  
  On day eleven, week two, of this bible study, the Holy Spirit revealed to me what one of my “next steps” will be in the future. A confirmation of what was revealed to my husband the very weekend I spoke at Divine Design last year. Stay tuned…I can’t wait to share what God is doing in my life, in His timing….:)
  
  All the Glory to God,
  
  Shanon Crenshaw
  
  Works Cited:
  
  Image of Ecclesiastes 3:1 by kingjamesbibleonline.org.
  
  Leclaire, Jennifer. Transform: A 90-Day Spirit Prayer Challenge. Web. January 2020. https://schoolofthespirit.tv/courses/transform/.
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  Posted in God at Work | 2 Comments | Tagged Christian blogger, Ecclesiastes 3:1, Jesus, Prayer
- Girl, Stay in your Lane
  
  Posted at 12:09 PM by Shanon Crenshaw, on February 27, 2020
  This morning, after I read my devotional, I was reflecting on what my biggest takeaway was from the bible study we just wrapped up during my Wednesday night ladies’ small group at church.
  
  Our study, “Trustworthy: A Study of 1 & 2 Kings” by Lysa Terkeurst definitely provided me with a deeper understanding of several of the Kings I’ve read about in these books of the Bible. However, I was looking for that A-ha God moment, you know the one where God personally ties up the season you are walking through RIGHT NOW with His Word and clear direction?!
  
  I realized the most important thing that was missing: I hadn’t asked for the Holy Spirit’s Guidance. “You do not have, because you do not ask.” James 4:2b
  
  So, during my morning prayers, I asked God to reveal, through the Holy Spirit, what He would have me learn and take away from this Bible Study, to help me move forward in the season He has me walking through right now.
  
  He didn’t disappoint. He never does when I ask for wisdom and guidance through His Word and Instruction. Now, it may not come in MY timing, but it ALWAYS comes.
  
  The first words of Wisdom were discovered on page 36:
  
  “His ways? They aren’t our ways. And that’s actually something we should be thankful for, even when He asks us to do things that don’t make sense to us” (Terkeurst, Lysa).
  
  Now, that spoke to me. But the part that REALLY got my attention was the back story to the quote I just mentioned.
  
  This chapter focuses on King Solomon, and how God wanted him to rebuild his temple. However, there was somebody else who really wanted to honor God with this monumental task: Solomon’s father, King David.
  
  We’ll pick this part up, back in the study, on page 36:
  
  “For all of King David’s tremendous achievements and accomplishments, the one thing he was not able to accomplish was the construction of the temple. God didn’t allow David to build the temple because David was a man of war and bloodshed (1 Chron. 22:8, 28:3). Building the temple was David’s request (2 Sam. 7:2), a request God denied” (Terkeurst, Lysa).
  
  In my mind, I can see King David trying to reason with God. “God, I’ve fought all of these battles in obedience to You, and now, I’m asking You to give me my heart’s desire. Let me build Your temple. Yet, God denied it.
  
  Ouch. It hurts when God denies the very things that bring us joy in relation to Him. Here is what Lysa Terkeurst says about that on page 37:
  
  “David’s desire to build the temple was a good thing, which can make it feel like a good idea. But not all good ideas are God ideas. When we find ourselves in similar situations, we have yet another opportunity to make the choice to trust God (Terkeurst, Lysa).
  
  Over the last couple of months, I have seen the progression of a new season in my life. Incredibly different than any I have been in before. I have been experiencing debilitating migraines that are atypical and sometimes require me to convalesce for days and weeks at a time.
  
  Based on my symptoms, I believe I am suffering from vestibular migraines, which affect the nervous system. In addition to the migraine, I have extreme dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues that make it difficult to read, write, drive, etc. My last episode lasted two weeks. In April, I have an MRI and Neurological appointment set up to help figure out all of the details behind these migraines.
  
  As a result of these health changes, I have been struggling with despair and questioning whether or not I am still on the path that God had whispered to my heart many years ago.
  
  But, what I do know is this: I need to trust God right where I’m at. He knows all that I am going through, after all, He allowed it, so if I keep putting Him first, and I’m obedient to all He calls me to do, I need to rest in where I am and learn to find Joy in this season.
  
  So, right now I’m not writing nearly as much as I would like. However, God really has me focusing on relationships. Several people that I haven’t spoken to in quite a while, I’m getting reacquainted with.
  
  Also, I take my dad to all of his medical appointments and they have needed to increase lately. I really enjoy these times with my dad; we are making memories. Isn’t that one of the most important things? Memories, relationships–all brought together by Our Lord, the One that Knows all.
  
  One other quick thing: did you know Our God has a sense of humor? While I was beginning to write this a new personal mantra popped into my head:
  
  “Girl, stay in your lane!!”
  
  What?! I had to laugh when I thought that. I love it!!
  
  I’ve realized, especially lately as I have been discouraged, that I keep comparing myself to the “races” that others are running in the lanes next to me.
  
  “Wow, she’s got it all together and she has three kids under the age of ten?” “What’s wrong with me that I can’t….”
  
  I can’t…because that is not my lane. God is working with me, in my lane, and looking to my left and my right will NEVER equip me to run the race that God can only equip me for.
  
  I need to only look up to Him and ahead.
  
  Not behind me, or to the lane on my left or right. I need to stay in my lane and finish the race God has set before me. After all, He is the only One who knows my talents, abilities, strengths, weaknesses, desires, and heart, and He is the only One who can work all of those details out for His perfect plan for my life. And yours.
  
  “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28
  
  I encourage you to stay in your lane. Let God be the only One to lead your life, through whatever season you are in. May God bless you!
  
  All the Glory to God,
  
  Shanon
  
  Image of: “Let us run with endurance…” by Looking to Jesus–Bible teaching lectures. bibleteaching.co.uk. https://bibleteaching.co.uk/looking-to-jesus/
  
  Teurkeurst, Lysa. “Trustworthy: A Study of 1 & 2 Kings.” Published by Lifeway Press. 2019. Print.
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  Posted in A-Ha Moments, God at Work | 4 Comments | Tagged Christian blogger, Hope in Jesus, migraines
- Held in His Hand
  
  Posted at 3:41 PM by Shanon Crenshaw, on January 2, 2020
  　Over the last few years, my new year has begun the same way: God gives me a new scripture to focus on and on the first of January, I answer the same set of questions in my journal. I look forward to these questions in the same way that I greet a dear friend; ready to ponder not only the newness of a fresh start but the bold anticipation of what my dear friend and Savior Jesus, have in store for me this year.
  
  Here is an example of the questions and the first one I answer:
  
  What is my one prayer for this year that seems impossible, knowing that “nothing is impossible with God”?
  
  Last year, on January 1st, 2019, I stepped out boldly in my prayer to God, and you know what?! He answered my prayer in His timing, towards the end of the year, AND it is continuing to unfold!! I am so excited to see all that He has in store through this answered prayer as I continue to rest and wait on Him. Praise God!!
  
  I honestly believe that stepping out boldly and completely giving this “impossible” prayer to Him, allowed me to surrender ALL to His will and allowed me to rest and wait.
  
  The more I do this, as hard as it is for my flesh, the more joy and peace I have in the midst of each difficulty. The Bible says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13. Amen!
  
  Maybe one day I will share the prayer that I spoke about above, but for now, I’m going to change gears and share the details of the scripture the LORD chose for me to focus on for 2020 and a little bit about why it is so profound to me.
  
  ***
  
  On December 31, 2019, I was reading my bible and spending time in my writing room with God, focusing on His Word. I was reading a chapter in the book of Psalms when this scripture jumped out at me:
  
  If the LORD delights in a man’s way,
  
  He makes his steps firm;
  
  though he stumble, he will not fall,
  
  for the LORD upholds him with His hand. (Psalm 37:23-24)
  
  I KNEW, without a doubt, that THIS was my scripture for 2020. I immediately wrote it down on a card and put it in the same spot on my desk where last year’s scripture was placed. I will meditate on it all year.
  
  Next, I asked the Holy Spirit to share with me the significance of God’s Word and to share what He would have me learn from it.
  
  Immediately, my mind went back to the difficulties and bedrest the Lord had me on– off and on–over the last several weeks of this year. These “stumbles and bumps in the road” caused by migraines and sinus infections, caused me to miss out on opportunities in writing and church activities because of severe vertigo, blurred vision, and headaches that only medication and bedrest could relieve.
  
  BUT through it ALL, I knew God was holding me by my right hand AND I trust Him through all of it!!
  
  Was it easy?! NO! My flesh kept reminding me what I was missing out on and how I was missing deadlines in writing and not keeping up with what I set out to do etc….
  
  But, I was sleeping and resting in God and that is where He wanted me to be or I wouldn’t have been there, right?!
  
  So, during my convalescence, I prayed, worshipped, and rested joyfully in the LORD knowing that He is still at work and everything I go through He can use for His Glory!!!
  
  This brings me to the next revelation that the Holy Spirit revealed to me in regard to Psalm 37: 23-24.
  
  Last March, at our annual ladies’ retreat, God revealed, through a prayer I received over me from our Pastor’s wife, that “If I get weary or out of step, get back in line.”
  
  During the weeks I was dealing with these migraines and sinus infections, I was especially weary about my writing. I felt like I had to keep on my writing schedule or I would be failing at what I believe is the call God has placed in my life. I don’t want to let HIM down, but how can you write when you can’t read?! My eyes were so bad!
  
  So I turned back to this journal entry and the prayer dated March 23rd, 2019. These were the words that Kim Price, our Pastor’s wife, spoke to me:
  
  I have a call on my life. Be obedient. Keep my eyes on God. Trust Him. If I get weary or get out of step, get right back in line.
  
  These words were so strong in my heart and in prayer for me, that I immediately wrote them down when I returned to my seat. There was more to the prayer, but the other details are resting between me and God.
  
  During the last few days, when the Holy Spirit revealed this scripture to me and some of the details behind it, it gave me a completely different perspective of what I had been going through with my illness.
  
  It reminded me that: I need to keep obedient to God and let Him direct my steps. I need not worry about anyone else’s standards of failure if I am being true to what He is calling me to do each day.
  
  I need to begin my day with Him and ask Him, what to focus on. He will never steer me wrong when I place Him first!
  
  In conclusion, I know we live in a Fallen world. Bumps in the road will happen and I may stumble. But, I will continue to hold THE steady hand of the One Who holds my calling, my days, and my life–the LORD my God. Amen!
  
  All the Glory to God,
  
  Shanon
  
  Image of Psalm 37: 23-24 by Heartlight. “God directs and restores Godly people.” Heartlight Gallery.
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  Posted in A-Ha Moments, God at Work | 1 Comment | Tagged Christian blogger, Christian Testimony, Faith, Jesus, New Year New Hope
- Least of These
  
  Posted at 11:23 AM by Shanon Crenshaw, on December 7, 2019
  That scripture came to my mind this week when I was reading an encouraging story about Mother Teresa. “In Mother Teresa, the Wino, and Me” Robert F. Baldwin recounts his story of meeting Mother Teresa and hearing her speak in an auditorium several years ago:
  
  “During her talk, she told us how she and the members of her order, the Missionaries of Charity, seek to recognize Christ in the poorest of the poor.
  
  She told a story of how one of the sisters had spent an entire day bathing the wounds of a dying beggar who was brought to them from the streets of Calcutta. Mother Teresa’s voice dropped to a whisper as she told the hushed auditorium that, in reality, the nun had been bathing the wounds of Jesus” (Baldwin, Robert F.).
  
  In the bible, in Matthew 25: 34-40, Jesus speaks more in-depth to how we are to treat those we come in contact with:
  
  “Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’
  
  Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’
  
  “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these, my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!'”
  
  The story that Robert Baldwin wrote brought tears to my eyes and deep emotion to my heart. I do try very hard to do what I can for others; whether it is kind words, a warm hug, sympathetic ear, monetary help, food, etc.
  
  But the big a-ha moment I had was the visualization of the nun and how I imagined her lovingly, with a tender touch, cleansing the wounds of this dying beggar as though she was actually bathing the flesh of our Savior!
  
  In all honesty, I have never “seen” helping others through that lens–perspective or viewpoint– before.
  
  It makes perfect sense though, doesn’t it?! Because God is omniscient (knows everything), omnipresent (present everywhere), and omnipotent (has unlimited power). God sees everything, is a part of everything, with unlimited power.
  
  My mind and spirit, through this incredible revelation, reflected back to some of the ways I had helped in the past and I saw it differently–through the Words of Jesus in Matthew 25:40.
  
  When I gave warm clothes to the shelter, He was the recipient of a slightly used coat with a brown scarf.
  
  When I had the chance to serve and feed the hungry in the park? Yeah, He was there, in line, between the young family and an older lady.
  
  I pray that I never forget the story of Mother Teresa and the nun. I want to approach each day in a way that whomever the Lord brings my way, I’ll do my best to help them as though it was My Lord.
  
  To do this I am:
  
  *Committing to pray daily for the Lord to comfort those in need and to give me the eyes to see how I can serve those all around me and whomever He directs me to.
  
  *Next, I am committing to ACT and BE OBEDIENT to what the Lord calls me to do. Set my feet in motion and love, share, serve, spread the Gospel of Jesus, etc. to the lost and hurting world.
  
  Help me to become more like You every day, Lord. May I be Your hands and feet on this earth, spreading the Gospel and the love of Jesus to everyone! Amen!
  
  All the Glory to God,
  
  Shanon
  
  Works Cited:
  
  Baldwin, Robert F. “Mother Teresa, the Wino, and Me.” Chicken Soup for the Soul: Stories of Faith. Published by Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing, LLC. Print. 2008.
  
  Matthew 25:40 “Every life is worth the same to God, PRICELESS!” crosscards. Web. 6 December 2019. https://www.crosscards.com/cards/facebook-ecards/12072015-matthew-25-40-social.html
  
  The Beauty of truth: faith, Hope, & Love. “Christ has no body but yours…” perfectthewayyouarerightnow.com. Pinterest. 7 December 2019. Web. https://www.pinterest.com/pin/161848180332707038/
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  Posted in A-Ha Moments | 0 Comments | Tagged bible, Christian, God, Jesus, Least of these, Matthew 25:40
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Shanon Crenshaw

God is first and foremost in my life. I LOVE: my husband Steve, daughters Suzanne and Savannah, my AMAZING family and friends, the majestic beauty of the Pacific Northwest, traveling and camping, a GREAT cup of coffee with my morning devotionals, and my Sumner Family Church family. :)

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