by Christian International | Jun 30, 2025 | Articles
On May 23, I was blessed to welcome my eighth grandchild, Sylas. The miracle of birth is truly amazing and a beautiful reminder of God’s creative power.
In the womb, a baby is protected, surrounded by fluid, receiving continual nourishment, and everything it needs from the mother. All the while, the baby is growing into the likeness and image of its parents, maturing and preparing for the next stage of life. In many ways, this is how our Christian journey unfolds—we are growing daily into the image of Christ as we prepare for eternity.
Then, in just a few short hours, everything changes. The baby is thrust from that safe, familiar environment into a new world—breathing air, no longer protected by fluid, now needing to cry for nourishment, completely dependent on others to care for and protect them. This mirrors the believer’s transition from this earthly life into the glory of heaven.
My mother once had a revelation that this is what it may be like to die and go to heaven. While we are on earth, we are maturing and growing into the likeness and image of Christ Jesus. One day, just like a baby leaving the womb, we will leave this world and be thrust into an entirely new and glorious heavenly realm.
The difference between the womb and the world is immense, but so is the difference between this world and heaven. Just as a baby cannot comprehend what life outside the womb will be like, we cannot fully comprehend what heaven will be like.
“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” – Isaiah 55:9
“And just as we have borne the image of the earthly man, so shall we bear the image of the heavenly man.” – 1 Corinthians 15:49
Trying to understand God and the spiritual realm with our natural minds is like an ant trying to understand a satellite. Imagine handing an ant a manual to an airplane or a spaceship and expecting it to comprehend it. Likewise, we often argue over theology, but God has told us that many things are beyond our understanding. Just take a second and think about God never beginning and never ending. Mind Blown! God gave us a manual to live by—the Bible—but we cannot grasp all its meaning without the help of the Holy Spirit.
“For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” – 1 Corinthians 13:12
That’s why God says, “Without faith it is impossible to please Him.” – Hebrews 11:6. Walking with God is a walk of faith and trust—not asking why?, but learning to lean into His faithfulness and trusting He is directing your steps.
Instead of endless debates about theology, God calls us to love. “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” – Mark 12:30 “The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” – Mark 12:31
We are to love our neighbors as ourselves—which means we must also learn to love ourselves. He tells us not to worry, that He will work all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). Just as the birds do not worry, we are to trust Him. (Matthew 6:26)
With God, nothing is impossible (Luke 1:37). Just as a baby learns to walk and talk over time, we too are learning and growing in our faith. Babies place their complete trust in their parents—and we must place our trust in our Heavenly Father.
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 18:3
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
In the Gospels, Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for debating and trying to trap Him in theological arguments. Instead, He emphasized love, faith, humility, and obedience.
We are instructed to “study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” – 2 Timothy 2:15
Our God is a great God. He knows the end from the beginning. He is the Alpha and Omega, all-knowing.
“Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; His greatness no one can fathom.” – Psalm 145:3
Yet He loves us each individually. He knows the number of hairs on our head (Luke 12:7). His love is so vast we cannot even begin to imagine it (John 3:16). His grace, forgiveness, and heart for us are beyond our comprehension.
There is much we may never understand on this side of heaven. But one thing we do know: God is a good Father, and He has prepared something far greater than we can imagine for those who love Him.
by Christian International | May 7, 2025 | Articles
You may feel stuck… but what if this is actually growth?
When I was a child, I struggled in school. My two older brothers made straight A’s, but I had a hard time. Reading and comprehension didn’t come easily. It wasn’t until my sophomore year of high school that I was diagnosed with dyslexia. By then, I had already figured out how to get by—and with God’s grace, I graduated.
Because academics didn’t come naturally, I leaned into relationships and social skills. I remember a vivid moment in Bible college. My brother Tom, his girlfriend Jane (now wife), and I all studied hard for a test. We knew the material. But when the grades came back, they both received A’s—I got a D. I was devastated. I cried. I knew the answers—I just couldn’t process the written test the same way.
Even now, I still wrestle with fear when reading Scripture aloud during a sermon. That fear has tried to hold me back more than once.
But I take comfort in Moses’ story. When God called him, Moses responded, “I am not eloquent… I am slow of speech and of tongue” (Exodus 4:10, NKJV). God didn’t rebuke him—He reassured him. If God could use Moses with his limitations, He can use us too.
Over the years, I discovered that I’m more comfortable writing than speaking. I even wrote a book, Stewarding Your Best Life, and now I write articles to strengthen others in their walk with God. His strength truly is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Everyone Grows at a Different Pace
Not everyone learns the same way. Some things come easily to others, but that doesn’t mean you’re behind. We’re all growing—but we’re growing differently. That’s why Scripture tells us:
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up…” —1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Judge not, that you be not judged.” —Matthew 7:1
Dyslexia taught me this personally. I don’t catch subtle hints. I take things literally. When people say, “You knew what I meant,” I often didn’t. I only knew what they said. It’s not rudeness—it’s wiring. God made me this way. And He equips each of us uniquely for the call on our life (Hebrews 13:21).
The Stages of Spiritual Growth
The rhythm of the Kingdom is this: bottom to top… and then back to the bottom again. But each time, at a higher level.
My mom wrote a book, God’s Tests Are Positive, that outlines the stages of growth in life—and it mirrors our spiritual journey so well.
- Baby Stage – You cry, and someone comes. No one expects maturity. Everything is done for you.
- Toddler Stage – Now you’re being trained. Throwing tantrums and making messes are no longer excused. Not rejection—it’s preparation.
- Kindergarten – You start learning how to sit still, listen, and pay attention.
- Elementary School – Tests are introduced. You take them, pass them, and advance. You’re taught the basics—like math. Then math gets harder. Same subject, different depth.
By 5th grade, you’re the top of the class. You feel confident, capable. But then comes…
- Middle School – And you’re back at the bottom. The rhythm resets. You learn to navigate more complexity—new social dynamics, new academic demands. Same subjects, but deeper content.
Then you rise again—until you’re the leader of the school—an 8th grader. Top dog.
- High School – But guess what? Freshman again. Bottom rung. New environment. New pressure. But also, new opportunity. Each level requires more of you, even if you’re covering familiar ground. Algebra becomes calculus. Reading becomes critical thinking. What used to stretch you now feels basic.
And when you graduate?
- College or Career – You start again. Freshman. Entry-level. Bottom of a new system. But this isn’t failure—it’s growth. It’s the rhythm of development. Bottom to top, over and over again. But every time, you’re going higher.
This is why the same lessons will revisit you in new ways. Because you’re not just repeating—you’re being refined. Trained. Elevated.
“Study to show yourself approved unto God…” —2 Timothy 2:15
“When I was a child, I spoke as a child… but when I became a man, I put away childish things.” —1 Corinthians 13:11
Be Encouraged—You’re Still Growing
No matter where you are—just starting, in transition, or leading—you’re still being transformed into the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). And that process often looks like being humbled… again.
If you’re struggling, you’re not disqualified. God provides help. He sends people. He uses tools. I rely on my team and technology to help me communicate. And there’s no shame in that. Iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17).
Don’t let fear, shame, or comparison keep you from stepping into what God has called you to do. You may feel like you’re at the bottom—but you’re not stuck. You’re growing. You’re advancing to the next level.
“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord,
are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory…” —2 Corinthians 3:18
This is the rhythm of Kingdom growth. From bottom to top… and higher every time.
by Christian International | Apr 2, 2025 | Articles
Finding Our True Identity in Christ
In today’s world, identity is a major topic of discussion. People often ask, “What do you identify as?” or “Where do you find your identity?” The concept of identity shapes how we see ourselves and how we interact with the world around us.
What is Identity?
The dictionary defines identity as “the distinguishing character or personality of an individual.” But as Christians, our identity is not rooted in worldly definitions—it is found in Christ. We are continually transitioning into His likeness and image (2 Corinthians 3:18).
Where Do We Find Our Worth?
It’s natural to find comfort and security in the roles we hold. Personally, I have found great joy and purpose in being a mother and grandmother. My family, my parents, brothers, children, and grandchildren—has been a source of stability and strength for me.
However, Jesus gives us a sobering reminder in Matthew 10:37:
“He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.”
This does not mean we should love our families any less, but rather, that our ultimate worth, security, and trust must be found in Christ alone.
Identity Built on the Fruit of the Spirit
Our character and identity as believers are shaped by the fruit of the Spirit:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” — Galatians 5:22-23
Some people find their identity in wealth, success, or recognition. Others build their worth on titles and positions—whether in ministry or the corporate world. But being a pastor, evangelist, teacher, prophet, or apostle is not an identity; it is a calling. These roles are responsibilities given by God for the purpose of perfecting and equipping the saints for the work of the ministry. (Ephesians 4:11-12).
Likewise, positions such as CEO, manager, supervisor, or leader in any field can be blessings. However, if our security is found in promotions, financial success, or public acknowledgment, we will always be left wanting. Instead, we are called to do everything unto the Lord:
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” — Colossians 3:23
A Testimony of True Identity
My father, Bishop Bill Hamon, gave his life to Jesus at a small brush arbor meeting with just a few teenagers in an open field in Oklahoma. The woman who ministered that night may never have known the impact of her obedience. If her identity had been based on large crowds, financial support, or public recognition, she might have felt like a failure.
But because her identity was in Christ, her worth was found in His grace and mercy. And in the end, her reward in heaven will be just as great as my father’s—because she was faithful to her calling. This is the essence of finding our fulfillment in God rather than in earthly success.
You never know if that one person you are talking to and helping will change thousands of lives. God has called us to be obedient in the seemingly small things as much as the seemingly large more noticeable things. Obedience will help to form our character and our identity.
The Danger of Misplaced Identity
When we place our identity in people, fame, fortune, or material possessions—even in our families and mentors—we will inevitably face disappointment. These things are temporary, but our identity in Christ is eternal.
My True Identity
At the end of the day, I identify as a Christian—someone who is being transformed into the likeness and image of Christ. From glory to glory, I seek to reflect His character through the fruit of the Spirit in my life.
May we all find our true identity, worth, security, and purpose in Him alone.
by admin | Feb 1, 2025 | Articles
A message from the CEO of Christian International Sherilyn Hamon Miller:
In every season of life, God has placed a unique calling on each of us. To fulfill it, we must remain focused and obedient, refusing to be distracted by comparison or discouraged by the opinions of others. Stay on task. Do what God has called you to do, trusting that His plan is purposeful, even when it doesn’t make sense or seems insignificant.
The Loneliness of Obedience
There are times when obedience to God feels isolating. Like Adam in the garden, walking and talking with God daily, you may still feel alone in your assignment. Adam’s task of naming animals and tending the garden might have seemed mundane, but it was part of God’s divine plan.
Scripture reminds us of God’s concern for our need for companionship:
“And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a help meet for him.” (Genesis 2:18)
We were created to need one another. Godly relationships provide accountability, encouragement, and correction—helping us see blind spots we cannot recognize on our own. This mirrors how a car’s side mirror reveals what’s hidden in our blind spots, preventing collisions and accidents in life. Similarly, God often uses others to keep us aligned with His will.
Preparation in Obscurity
Throughout the Bible, God used seasons of obscurity and loneliness to prepare His people for greater assignments:
- Noah: Faithful in Obedience
Noah’s story is a powerful example of staying on task even when the world doesn’t understand. God called Noah to do something extraordinary—build an ark to save humanity and the animal kingdom from a flood, even though no one had ever seen rain. Imagine the loneliness Noah must have felt as he followed God’s instructions.
Noah’s obedience was met with ridicule. People mocked him as he built the massive ark. Imagine how he felt as his wife and children were made fun of and bullied because of his obedience. Yet, Noah remained faithful. Day by day, he followed God’s blueprint, trusting in His plan. His faith and perseverance led to the preservation of the human race and a new covenant with God.
“By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house.” (Hebrews 11:7)
- Daniel and the Lions’ Den, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and the Fiery Furnace: Courage in Faith
Daniel’s unwavering obedience led him to a den of lions, where his life hung in the balance. Likewise, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego faced the fiery furnace for refusing to bow to an idol. Alone and surrounded by threats, they trusted God completely. What seemed like their destruction became a divine testimony of God’s power. Their faith not only saved them but also turned the hearts of kings and nations toward the one true God.
- Paul: Perseverance in Suffering
Paul endured imprisonment, beatings, and betrayal while carrying out God’s mission. Despite the isolation of a prison cell, Paul worshiped God, stayed on task, and shared the gospel. His faithfulness planted seeds for the church that continue to grow today.
- Mary, Mother of Jesus: Obedience Amid Doubt
Mary carried the Son of God, but she likely faced judgment and doubt from those around her. Even Joseph, her fiancé, initially struggled to believe her miraculous story. Imagine how he must have felt hearing his betrothed was pregnant. Yet Mary and Joseph trusted God’s calling, knowing their obedience was part of His eternal plan.
- Jesus: The Ultimate Example of Faithfulness
Jesus Himself exemplified staying on task, even in the face of betrayal, rejection, and unimaginable suffering. Though abandoned by His disciples and mocked by His own people, He carried out the will of the Father. Through the cross, He brought salvation to all humanity. His example reminds us to remain faithful, no matter the cost.
Avoid Comparison and Stay Faithful
It’s easy to look at others and feel inadequate or insignificant, especially in a culture obsessed with followers, likes, subscribers and accolades. But as followers of Christ, our goal is not fame or recognition. Not to have the biggest church, largest podcast or worldwide ministry. It is to serve faithfully and be conformed to the image of Christ.
“His Lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” (Matthew 25:23)
God does not measure success as the world does. He values faithfulness in the small things. Whether your calling is in the spotlight or in quiet obedience, trust that it is significant in His Kingdom.
Encouragement for the Journey
When you feel alone or insignificant, remember:
- God is with you. He has promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)
- Your obedience matters. God sees your faithfulness and will reward it in His time.
- You need others. Allow godly relationships to encourage and sharpen you.
- Trust God’s plan. He is preparing you for something greater, even in seasons of obscurity.
In closing, do not let discouragement or comparison derail you from fulfilling your divine calling. Stay on task. Keep your motives pure. Serve with humility, knowing that God’s approval is far greater than the applause of men. When we walk faithfully in our calling, we glorify God and fulfill His purpose for our lives.
One day, we will stand before Him and hear the words we all long for:
“Well done, good and faithful servant.
by admin | Nov 13, 2024 | Articles
Recently, I attended a celebration of my dad, Bishop Hamon’s 70 years of ministry and 90 years of life. During that time, I had a rare moment alone with Gordon Robertson, something unusual as I’m not usually the one hosting guest speakers. As we talked, Gordon remarked, “Oh, you’re the missing child.” This statement lingered with me, and as I prayed about its meaning, I sensed God giving me deeper insight.
Throughout the Bible, there are numerous accounts of children who seemed to be forgotten or overlooked, yet later emerged as central figures in God’s plan. These stories reveal that even when someone is left out, rejected, or underestimated, their destiny is often far greater than what others perceive. Two of the most notable examples are David, the shepherd boy who would become king, and Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers, but destined to save them. These narratives follow a divine pattern where God brings forth greatness from obscurity. Let’s delve into these and other biblical stories of “missing” children who later fulfilled their God-given destinies.
David: The Overlooked Shepherd Who Became King
David’s story is a classic example of someone initially dismissed. When the prophet Samuel arrived to anoint one of Jesse’s sons as Israel’s next king, David wasn’t even invited to the gathering. His father paraded his seven older sons before Samuel, assuming one of them would be chosen. But none were God’s choice.
Samuel then asked, “Are these all the sons you have?” Only then did Jesse mention David, the youngest, who was out tending sheep (1 Samuel 16:11). Brought in from the fields, David was unexpectedly anointed as Israel’s future king. Though overlooked by his family, he was not forgotten by God.
David’s anointing speaks a profound truth: God sees potential where others do not. Though he was the youngest and least likely candidate, David went on to defeat Goliath, unify Israel, and establish a royal lineage that would lead to Jesus. His story is a powerful reminder that God’s plans often defy human expectations.
Joseph: The Forgotten Brother Who Became a Savior
Another powerful example is Joseph, the favored son of Jacob. His brothers, jealous of their father’s affection for him, sold Joseph into slavery and led Jacob to believe he was dead. For years, Joseph was “missing” from his family’s life, enduring hardship as a slave and later as a prisoner in Egypt.
Yet, as Joseph later told his brothers, “What you meant for evil, God meant for good” (Genesis 50:20). In time, Joseph rose to become second in command of Egypt, overseeing the nation’s resources during a severe famine. When his brothers came to Egypt seeking food, they did not recognize the brother they had once betrayed. But Joseph, filled with mercy, chose forgiveness over revenge, ultimately saving his family and being restored to them.
Joseph’s story is one of divine providence. Though forsaken by his family, God had a greater purpose for him. His journey shows us that, even in the darkest times, God’s plan is still unfolding, often hidden until the appointed time.
Moses: The Hidden Child Who Became a Deliverer
Moses was also a child who was “missing,” though in a different way. Born during Pharaoh’s decree that all Hebrew male babies be killed, Moses’ mother hid him for as long as she could. Eventually, she placed him in a basket and set him adrift on the Nile, where he was found and raised by Pharaoh’s daughter.
Though Moses grew up away from his people, God would later call him back to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. From the burning bush, God commissioned Moses to confront Pharaoh and lead His people to freedom. Like David and Joseph, Moses’ early removal from his family did not hinder him from playing a critical role in God’s redemptive plan.
Jephthah: The Rejected Son Who Became a Leader
The story of Jephthah, found in Judges 11, is another example of a child rejected by family, only to be called back for a greater purpose. Born to a prostitute, Jephthah was driven out by his half-brothers, who refused to share their inheritance with him. In exile, Jephthah became a leader of a band of outlaws.
When Israel faced oppression by the Ammonites, the elders sought Jephthah’s help. Despite his earlier rejection, Jephthah returned and led Israel to victory, becoming one of the judges who governed the nation during that time.
Samuel: The Child Dedicated and Called by God
Samuel’s story is unique in that he wasn’t physically “missing,” but his destiny was overlooked by others. Dedicated to the Lord by his mother, Hannah, Samuel grew up under the care of Eli the priest. Though he lived in the temple, Samuel’s prophetic calling was not immediately recognized.
One night, God called to Samuel as he slept. After several failed attempts to understand the source of the voice, Eli realized it was the Lord. From that point on, Samuel became a key prophet, eventually anointing both Saul and David as kings. Samuel’s life illustrates that even when others don’t see our potential, God’s calling remains true.
Conclusion: The Divine Pattern of Restoration
These biblical stories reveal a recurring theme of children who were overlooked, rejected, or forgotten, only to be restored and called to a higher purpose. David was left in the fields, Joseph was sold into slavery, Moses was hidden away, Jephthah was cast out, and Samuel was initially unrecognized. Yet, in each case, God orchestrated their return to the forefront to fulfill their destinies.
These stories remind us that God’s timing and plans often transcend our understanding. Even when we feel overlooked or insignificant, we can trust that God sees us and has a purpose for our lives. The “missing” child may be out of sight for a time, but in God’s eyes, they are never truly forgotten. When the time comes, they will be called forth to fulfill their destiny.
