Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 October 2008 Proverbs 2:6-7‏

11 Oct 2008 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Proverbs 2:6-7    For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous; he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.
 
Of a truth Friends, the Lord is a giver of wisdom, to those who seek it! And no one knows that better than Solomon. The first thing he did on ascending the throne of his father, Bruh David, was to ask for divine help. ‘I am but a little child; I know not how to go out or come in.’ (1Kin.3:7) Realizing his limitations, his inexperience in governing, Sol humbled himself before the Lord. ‘Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?’ (1 Kin.3:9) The Most High was so ecstatic that he’d asked for wisdom and understanding rather than riches and vengeance that He poured out innumerable blessings on Sol. ‘Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise.’ (1 Kin.3:12) Oh people, what a wonderful, magnanimous God we serve! When we come to Him in faith, asking for heartfelt mercy, He will grant it; and even more too, as He did with Sol. For though Sol didn’t ask for riches and honour, God gave him anyway, and in such profusion, ‘so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.’ (1 Kin.3:13) Wow! Yuh see that Friends? All Sol asked for was wisdom and understanding, but the Lord lauded him with everything, made him the wisest and wealthiest ever. That’s the Lord’s reaction to unselfish wishes. Once you have wisdom; the art of living sensibly, and it is an art, for there are no hard and fast scientific rules, you’ll know how to handle your affairs properly, that will help you to acquire wealth and honour in a godly manner. As Sol says: ‘Wisdom is the principal thing: therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting, get understanding. Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: She shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver thee.’ (Prov.4:7-9)  Yes Friends, that’s the advice of the wisest man ever! Wisdom should be our foremost goal, for from it flows everything else. But how do we acquire this elusive intangible called wisdom? Simple: by going to the fountain head; the Lord our God, the Creator of everything. What better source is there eh?  ‘For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous.’ Yes Friends, He’s still as generous with His wisdom as when Sol asked. He stores it up for the righteous, the faithful, who ask for it. So to live this crazy life with some semblance of sense, we’ve got to ask the Most High for wisdom. But we don’t, cause we’re too full of foolish pride and vain self-confidence. We figure we know what’s best for us and the world around us. Hn! But if that was so, would the world be in such a sorry state now? I doubt it. But the leaders, the rulers, the power-brokers, all felt that they knew what was best and refused to consult the Creator, in fact, are trying to completely eradicate Him from our society. Now look at the mess we’re in. And sadly, we still haven’t learned, for in all the ensuing confusion, we’re still trying to find man made solutions to problems most likely initiated by a higher power. That’s definitely not wisdom. Especially when there’s a holy, generous God, who’s only too willing to show us the right way. That’s all wisdom is Friends; the right way of doing things. At least our forefathers were smart enough to realize that when great misfortune befell them, it probably had to do with their disobedience to God, and they repented and turned back to Him. But no, we’re too proud and arrogant to think any such thing. Oh Friends, I implore us, for the sake of future generations, let’s look to the Lord to guide us in treading the rough, uneven path we face. For ‘he’s a buckler to them that walk uprightly.’ Yes, He’s a shield to those who do His will. ‘For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.’ (Ps.84:11) And none knew it better than those two stalwarts of the Lord; Bruh David and his son Solomon? Their lives tell it all. So let’s learn from them. Much LOVE!…seek the Lord…seek His face…continually…

Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 October 2008 Zechariah 9:12‏

10 Oct 2008 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Zechariah 9:12   Turn you to the stronghold, ye prisoners of hope: even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee.
 
Oh Friends, do you belong to that august company; the prisoners of hope? I certainly hope so, for without hope, life is meaningless, we might as well be dead. Life’s only worthwhile when we have something to look forward to, to hope for. In Chap.9. Zechariah’s talking about the judgement that will befall the nations around Jerusalem at the Messiah’s coming.  ‘And Tyrus did build herself a stronghold, and heaped silver as the dust, and fine gold as the mire of the streets. Behold the Lord will cast her out, and he will smite her power in the sea. and she shall be devoured by fire. Ashkelon shall see it, and fear; Gaza also shall see it, and be very sorrowful, and Ekron; for her expectation shall be ashamed; and the king will perish from Gaza, and Ashkelon will not be inhabited.’ (vs.3-5) Strong words indeed people! But having emanated from the Lord, they’re also true. Zechariah is attempting to boost his people’s spirit, by telling them of the good things the Lord has in store for them: Jerusalem will be restored, and there will be peace and prosperity in the land. So he then declares: ‘Rejoice greatly O daughter of Zion; shout O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy king cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt, the foal of an ass.’ (vs.9) What an insightful prophecy people! That’s Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. ‘And he shall speak peace unto the heathen, and his domain shall be from sea even to sea, and from river even to the ends of the earth.’ (vs.10) Yes Friends, Zechariah was a man on a mission; to bolster his people’s faith. He did that by sowing seeds of hope, with good news in the offing: peace, rest and salvation when the Saviour came. Therefore, ‘Turn you to the stronghold, ye prisoners of hope;’ Zechariah knew that in rough times the best thing we have going for us is hope, hope that things will get better. He also knew that that hope had to be upgraded to faith, and then that faith, used to find fortitude and courage. And that could only be achieved through the God of their fathers. It’s the same today Friends. The prophets prophesied of Jesus’ coming to give their people hope. And it all came true. Now Jesus said He’s coming back, this time as a mighty conqueror, and there’s no reason to doubt Him. But because of our fallen nature and the evil ploys of the enemy, we occasionally become faint and discouraged, especially in troubled times. But as Dr.Robert Schuller enthusiastically points out, ‘Tough times never last, But tough people do!’ That was Zechariah’s message; Times are bad, but there’s something better on the horizon, and if you’ll only hold your heads up, lift your spirits, stand strong in the hope and promises of our God, who can do anything, then we’ll soon see a better day. That’s what Jesus promised us too; a new and better day if we follow Him. ‘..even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee.’ Oh Friends, what a generous God! ‘For your shame ye shall have double; and for confusion they shall rejoice in their portion: therefore in their land they shall possess the double: everlasting joy shall be unto them.’ (Is.61:7) Oh Friends, nothing has changed. The Lord’s still going to show goodness and mercy to those who hope in Him, who show themselves faithful. Just like those Israelites of old, we’re living in some really troubled times, but Jesus promised that it would get better when He returned, and in the meanwhile His Holy Spirit will guide and protect us. So there’s no need to fret and worry. Become a prisoner of hope, and surround yourselves with people of faith so you can encourage each other. And if you can’t find anybody, then, like Bruh David, you’ve got to encourage yourself in the Lord. But Friends, whatever it takes, we must not, never ever, lose hope, faith and belief in our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. It would be disastrous. Much LOVE!…from a trusting heart…hope springs eternal…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 October 2008 1 Samuel 30:6‏

09 Oct 2008 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

1 Samuel 30:6    And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God.
 
Yes Friends, that’s Bruh David for you! Though he was at a low point in his life, having lost his wives and children, and his followers wanting to stone him too, yet he ‘encouraged himself in the Lord his God.’ Oh people, do we have that kind of resourcefulness, that overwhelming trust and faith in the Lord, that even when things seem hopeless, we’re able to say, yes, things are pretty bad, but I’ll yet trust in the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, to save me, to pull me out of the mire? He’s done it before, and will do it again! That’s the kind of faithfulness, the level of trust we need to achieve in our spiritual lives, so that we can overcome the many temptations and ungodly things that come against us. After passing up a chance to kill his nemesis, Saul, who then promised to stop trying to kill him, Bruh David took six hundred men, and with their families went to live amongst the Philistines in Gath, under king Achish, who gave them the city of Ziklag to dwell in. But while pretending allegiance to Achish, Bruh David terrorized the Philistine cities round about, leaving no mortal souls alive to recount his treachery. One day though, when he’d gathered with the Philistines to fight against Judah, the other Philistine princes, who rightly didn’t trust him, told Achish to send him away. But on his return home, he found that the Amalekites, whom Saul should have destroyed long before, had invaded Ziklag, burned it to the ground, and taken all the inhabitants captives. That’s why the people were so bitter and wanted to stone Bruh David, notwithstanding that he’d lost his wives and children too. But Friends, eternal hope, unswerving trust and monumental faith in the Lord are the greatest assets we can ever possess in this mortal coil. And Bruh David possessed those attributes as much as we possibly can. In spite of the disastrous circumstances, he called to Abiathar the priest, and they prayed to God for guidance. ‘And he answered him. Pursue: for thou shalt surely overtake them, and without fail recover all.’ (vs.8) Wow! And we know how he pursued the Amalekites with only four hundred men, leaving two hundred tired ones by the brook Besor, found a starving Egyptian slave they’d left behind, who, after they’d fed and promised not to return him to his master, led them to the invaders camp. They found them dancing and singing, celebrating their wartime victories. ‘And David smote them from the twilight even unto the evening of the next day.’ (vs.17) Only four hundred men who rode camels escaped. And the Word says: ‘David recovered all.’ (vs.19) Plus what the enemy had taken from the other cities. But as usual, our selfish human nature raised it’s ugly head when they got back to the  other men at the brook. Those who’d fought didn’t want to share with those who’d stayed behind; felt they were only entitled to what they’d lost originally. ‘Then said David, Ye shall not do so, my brethren, with that which the Lord hath given us, who hath preserved us, and delivered the company that came against us into our hand.’ (vs.23) And he decreed that all would share in the spoils equally. He also sent presents to his friends and people all over Judah who had helped him when he was running from Saul. Though his generosity was no doubt sincere, it was also a clever strategy to convince his friends and allies of his loyalty, despite his living under Achish.  Oh Friends, how I hope and pray, that all of us can summon up the resources of our soul, every day of our mortal life, and regardless of what tribulation comes against us, like Bruh David, encourage ourselves in the Lord our God. It’s not always easy, but that’s where our hope of glory and eternal salvation lies. Much LOVE!…with Jesus leading…we can overcome…anything and everything…

Today’s Scrip-Bit 8 October 2008 Habakkuk 2:3‏

08 Oct 2008 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Habakkuk 2:3    For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.
 
Oh Friends, that’s the gospel truth! Our God’s pronouncements always come to pass. It might take awhile, because He likes to give us plenty warning; sufficient time to change our ways or do His work. During Habakkuk’s time, Israel was so evil, it led him to cry out in anguish to the Lord. ‘Oh Lord, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! even cry out unto thee of violence, and thou wilt not save! Why dost thou show me iniquity, and cause me to behold grievance? for spoiling and violence are before me: and there are that raise up strife and contention. Therefore the law is slacked, and judgement doth never go forth: for the wicked doth compass about the righteous; therefore wrong judgement proceedeth.’ (Hab.1:2-4) Oh people, doesn’t that sound mighty familiar? It’s the same thing many of us are asking today about our depraved, wicked, god-belittling society. Habakkuk opted to stand on the city walls and wait for God’s answer. And it came: ‘Write the vision and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.’ (vs.2) At times the Lord’s ideas seem far fetched, but they’re always practical. It was common practice then to write public notices in large letters on clay tablets, so that anyone running by could easily read them. ‘For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.’ Ah Friends, we don’t have city walls as such to stand on, but wherever we wait for God’s answer to our heartfelt plea, I’m sure the answer will be the same as Habakkuk’s. Write it BIG and BOLD! so that all those in our society of more haste but less speed can easily read it as they anxiously rush by, going nowhere fast. And we’ve so many options now of displaying the message that it would boggle Habakkuk’s mind: Radio, t.v, billboards, newspapers, magazines, not to mention the computer and its numerous tentacles. But sadly Friends, it doesn’t seem that we’re getting out the message enough to make a sizeable difference, for everyday our world is spinning closer and closer to the bottom. The iniquity workers are doing a much better job than us. Granted, they control most of the medium by which the message can be spread. But if our society is to stand any chance of survival, much less renewal, we must stop it from plummeting so fast to a disastrous end. When is that ending? Jesus said only the Father knows. But He always gives us sufficient warning, though we may not heed it. The Israelites got it from Ezekiel: They had a saying; ‘the days are prolonged and every vision faileth.’  (Eze.12:22) But the Lord told Zeke, ‘Say unto them, the days are at hand, and the effect of every vision.’ (Eze.12:23) It was time to pay the price. Daniel was the same: ‘Understand O son of man: for at the time of the end shall be the vision.’ (Dan.8:17) ‘Therefore understand the matter and consider the vision. Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make and end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.’  (Dan.9:23-24) It seems the Hebrew word for weeks, shabua’ can refer to any period of seven; days, weeks, years, etc. The scholars did the math and found that in Daniels context, it refers to years; meaning seventy times seven years. (490)  And everything Daniel visualized came to pass within those 490 years; from when Jerusalem was ordered rebuilt to Christ’s crucifixion. (483) Now remember Friends, Jesus foretold His second coming. Only the Father knows when it is, but it can be anytime, and we’ve had ample warning; two thousand years. And though ‘The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all shall come to repentance.’ (2 Pet.3:9) be sure, one day, at the appointed time, the vision will speak, it will not tarry any longer. So let’s get our houses in order right now, and help as many others as possible to do the same, so that hopefully none will perish, all shall come to repentance. Much LOVE!…of this one thing be sure…the Lord always keeps His promises…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 7 October 2008 Joshua 14:11‏

07 Oct 2008 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Joshua 14:11    As yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in.
 
Oh Friends, what a powerful statement! Valiant, confident words spoken by an eighty five year old. ‘Lo, I am this day, fourscore and five years old.’ (vs.10) And why is he still so strong and confident at an age when most men stutter and dodder around? ‘Behold, the Lord hath kept me alive…’ (vs.10) Yes Friends, the Lord our God, had kept him alive and strong, as He’s won’t to do when we faithfully do His will. Those are the words of Caleb, the son of Jephunneh; one of the twelve men sent by Moses to espy the Promised Land. The only one who agreed with Joshua on their ability to conquer the land. ‘And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it. But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.’ (Num.13:30-31) They call it democracy; the voice of the many prevailing over that of the few. But what happened here? Because the Israelites listened to the negative ten and not the positive two, they wandered in the wilderness for another forty years, suffering the pangs of want and deprivation, when a land of milk and honey was just over the river. They lacked sufficient faith in the promise and the strength of the Lord God of their fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. How sad Friends! But that’s what happens when we call ourselves believers, but don’t obey the Lord’s commands. He won’t tell us to do something and then not fulfill His promise. So beware, the voice of the people, is not, never ever, greater than the voice of God! Years later, that defection still haunted Moses. When the children of Reuben and Gad, cattle herders, saw that the land on the east side of Jordan was excellent for cattle farming, they asked Moses for it. But Moses answered: ‘Shall your brethren go to war, and shall ye sit here? And wherefore discourage ye the heart of the children of Israel  from going over into the land which the Lord hath given them? Thus did your fathers, when I sent them from Kadesh-barnea to see the land…they discouraged the heart of the children of Israel that they should not go into the land which the Lord had given them. And the Lord’s anger was kindled the same time, and he sware, saying.’ That no man over twenty who came up from Egypt would see the Promised Land, ‘because they have not wholly followed me: Save Caleb…and Joshua: for they have wholly followed the Lord.’ (Num.32: 6-12) So he allowed them to wander forty more years, till that generation died. Oh people, please understand, our Lord’s punishment can be of great magnitude, just like His generosity! And note, the Lord specifically inserted the word ‘wholly’ when He talked about following Him, because He’s not interested in halfway relationships: It’s either all or nothing at all. So let’s remember that in our decision-making. It’s why Caleb, at eighty five, could claim to be as strong as he was at forty five. He trusted in the Lord completely, through all those rough years. And he could say to Joshua, ‘Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the Lord spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakim were there, and that the cities were great and fenced: if so be the Lord will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the Lord said.’ (vs.12) Bravo Caleb! And what did Joshua do? He was no spring chicken either. ‘And Joshua blessed him, and gave unto Caleb, the son of Jephunneh, Hebron for an inheritance.’ (vs.13) Ah Friends, today, as we go about the Lord’s work, please let the faithfulness of Caleb strengthen out hearts, minds and bodies in the promises and the goodness of our Lord towards those who follow Him completely. And like him, may we say with certainty, ‘As yet I am as strong as I was in the day that Moses sent me.’ Much LOVE!…no halfway measures please…says the Lord…

Today’s Scrip-Bit 6 October 2008 John 16:13‏

06 Oct 2008 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

John 16:13    Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself: but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak; and he will show you things to come.
 
Oh Friends, what an awesome, awesome Being is the Holy Spirit! It’s the third person of the Holy Trinity; equal to, yet separate from the Father and the Son. The member of the triumvirate that dwells in, guides and leads us in right paths, to right decisions. Zechariah declared: ‘Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.’ (Zech.4:6) The Holy Spirit is the workhorse of the Trinity. He conducts all the Lord’s business with His children. Today, Jesus is warning His disciples about the persecution and injustice they’d suffer after He left them, all because they preached in His Name. He’d already promised to send them help. ‘And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless, I will come to you.’  (John 14:16-18) Wow people! What a truly amazing promise! Now did  it really reassure the early disciples? Who knows? Their leader would soon depart, never a good sign, and definitely not a move that instils trust and confidence. But we ought to be reassured, since it still holds true today, and only believers can receive it. The disciples plight is obvious: This was the dawning of a new religious era in an old, stoic society, and when Jesus’ penchant to talk in parables was coupled to their limited intelligence and education, it must have created some misgivings. ‘But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me. And ye shall also bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.’ (John 15:26-27) And guess what happened that day of Pentecost long ago? ‘Suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a mighty rushing wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.’  (Acts 2:2-4) Yes Friends, it’s indeed a mighty God we serve! His majesty and power are awesome to behold! And luckily for us, it’s that same Spirit, that tower of strength that walks besides us, as we bear witness of Christ, as we testify to His authenticity, His purpose and His power. But just then, the disciples were still too immature in the faith to understand all Jesus had to explain. ‘I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.’ (vs.12) After His crucifixion and resurrection though, they’d be much more aware. ‘Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth:’ Yes Friends, that’s gospel! ‘But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.’ (John 14: 26-27) Oh people, how caring and considerate is our Jesus! He knew the serious problems they’d encounter after He left, and tried His best to prepare them. Friends, the same thing applies to us today. It’s the same Spirit of Jesus that’s dwelling and working in us. The same Spirit of truth that will impart God’s eternal wisdom to us when we’re worried and troubled and turn to our Creator for help. So free yourself from unnecessary fear and worry; our Heavenly Helper, the Holy Spirit, sent in Jesus’ Name, is, and will always be with us. Much LOVE!…only believe…yes, act in faith…it’s all we need to do… 
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 5 October 2008 Hebrews 13:15‏

05 Oct 2008 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Hebrews 13:15     By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to his name.
 
Yes Friends, it’s a thanks and praise day! But note, I did not look to Bruh David as I usually do, I turned to Bruh Paul instead. Aren’t you all proud of me, practicing what I preach, impartiality? (smile) But seriously though people, the last chapter of Hebrews deals with service well pleasing to God, which should always be our main aspiration. And Bruh Paul begins it with those famous words of godly advice: ‘Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.’ (vs.1-3) Words to live by people, words to live by! We won’t go wrong if we follow that simple prescription; treat each other decently. Then he goes on to talk about marriage being honourable, not to be covetous, be content with whatever you have, ‘for he hath said, I will never leave thee nor forsake thee.’ (vs.5) What a promise Friends! It assures us of constant care and concern from our God. And with that promise filling, ennobling our hearts, we can boldly rise, stand up and convincingly say, ‘The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.’ (vs.6) Praise His Holy Name people! That’s the beauty, the purpose of the Word; to keep us filled with God’s promises, so we can be strong and carry out His tasks. But we’ve got to constantly read and study it, so that we’ll be constantly energized. It’s the only way we’ll survive and thrive in this crazy, tumultuous world; having our hearts, souls and minds enamoured and filled with the Word of God. We should also remember those who taught us the Word, and the tenet they preached; ‘Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and for ever.’ (vs.8) Oh Friends, that thought should always be uppermost in our minds; everything else changes, but Jesus never does! That just adds to our assurance and enables us to stand even firmer in the Word and ‘Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace, not with meats which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.’ (vs.9) Jesus’ crucifixion made blood and burnt offerings of no further account. The shedding of His Holy blood was sufficient to wipe away our sins for ever. It was now by His goodly, generous grace that we’re saved. ‘By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually…’ That’s a must Friends! ‘Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.’ (Eph.5:20) A believer’s mantra people! ‘…that is, the fruit of our lips; giving thanks to his name.’ I doubt any other writer interwove the Old Testament so seamlessly with the New Covenant of Christ as Bruh Paul did; possibly because most were not as versed in it as him. But ‘the fruit of our lips,’ here alludes to two Old Testament passages: Isaiah 57:2, where the Lord says, ‘I create the fruit of the lips,’ and Hosea 14:2: ‘Take with you words, and turn to the Lord: say unto him, take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously, so will we render the calves of our lips.’ The Israelites were worshipping idols in calf form at the time. Friends, let’s gladly adhere to Bruh Paul’s’ advice nuh, and offer the fruit of our lips; a rich, bountiful harvest of thanks and praise to Almighty God. He most certainly deserves it. Much LOVE!…it is meet and comely…to offer thanks and praise…to the Most High…

Today’s Scrip-Bit 4 October 2008 James 2:1‏

04 Oct 2008 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

James 2:1    My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.
 
Friends, James Chap.2, deals with impartiality, and by extension, partiality. This is a rather important topic, for it’s the way the world operates, and many of us believers, fall into the enemy’s trap; judging others by their outward appearance, their economic standing, or some other unfair worldly standard. James gives the example of two people coming to your gathering; one well dressed, the other shabbily clothed. Now, if you give the nattily attired person a good seat at the front, but hide the poorly clad one where he won’t draw much attention, as many of us would, ‘Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and become judges of evil thoughts?’ (vs.2-4) For sure! We’re judging others on insignificant, insubstantial grounds; the quality of their clothing, the way they carry themselves etc, and that’s not right. Friends, it’s discrimination. And discrimination of any sort, on any grounds, is wrong. It’s been outlawed since ancient times. ‘Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgement: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shall thou judge thy neighbour.’ (Lev.19:15) That’s the Lord speaking through Moses to the Israelites. Yet we still show an inordinate amount of partiality, and for foolish reasons too. James condemns it. ‘But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.’ (vs.9) Partiality is more than an error of judgement, it’s an act of sin. It shows inconsistency in our conduct, using inappropriate methodology, (smile) to arrive at biased opinions and decisions. James also points out that God makes a mockery of our partiality by spurning the comely, godless ones we choose, and choosing the unseemly, unlikely ones we spurn. ‘Hath not God chosen the poor of this world, rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgement seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?’ (vs.5-7) Oh people, those are undeniable facts, yet we still tend to show excessive favour to the rich and famous, the godless, who abuse us and blaspheme Christ’s Holy Name, while we have little time for the downtrodden, who’re usually more godly than the society’s elite. That leads Bruh Paul to disdain the wisdom  of this world, of imperfect men, and talk instead of ‘the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory; which none of the princes of the world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.’ (1 Cor.2:6-8) Trust Bruh Paul to hit the nail on the head. Because Jesus had humble beginnings, and didn’t look  nor dress the part of the Messiah, as they envisioned it, they snobbishly assumed He could not be their Saviour. But how wrong they were! It’s been often shown how God confounds us with His choices. Very few of those He chose to do great things met our criteria for greatness; wealth, education, good family etc. Almost all came from humble beginnings, lacking in education and the finer points of etiquette. But the Lord, in His hidden wisdom, lifted them all up, increased their stature, so that they’d work wonders and glorify His Name. Just like He caused His Son, Jesus to be born poor, but then become the Saviour of this sinful world, and rise to sit beside Him on His heavenly throne. Oh Friends, please, let’s try our very best to be impartial, to hold ‘the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.’ It’s not easy, especially in a world built on partiality. But we have an advantage over most; as believers, our indwelling Holy Spirit, always guides us securely in God’s will. Much LOVE!…knowing good…but not doing it…that’s sin…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 3 October 2008 Matthew 6:9-13‏

03 Oct 2008 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Matthew 6:9-13    After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
 
Yes Friends, what an all encompassing prayer! Two days ago we stopped at ‘Give us this day our daily bread.’ Now, getting what we need daily to do the Lord’s will is important, but I think that this next aspect is possibly the most important one. ‘And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.’ Oh people, on those words, on that principle of forgiveness our entire salvation is based. Those debts are our sins. We’ve been sinners from the time our forefathers disobeyed the Lord and fell from grace, and we’ll be such until the second coming of the Messiah. But our Creator, our Father, our Lord God, LOVED us so much, that He sent His only Son to earth to die a dreadful death, to sacrifice His sinless life to pay for our disgusting sins; our disobedience to His righteousness. And through His shed blood, all sin has been paid for until eternity. The Lord has forgiven us, reclaimed us, offered us salvation, a fresh start. But to attain that salvation, that forgiveness, we need to repent of our sins, admit that we’re unworthy sinners, believe on Jesus’ Holy Name, then try our utmost to be obedient to His will. And Jesus dislikes hypocrites. That means we can’t ask Him to forgive us, then don’t forgive those who wrong us. To show how seriously Jesus took forgiveness, when Peter asked how often he should forgive his brother, ’till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.’  (Matt.18:22) Yes Friends, that’s at least how often we should forgive those who wrong us. But, being such a self-indulgent animal, we like to be forgiven, but find it hard to forgive. Sorry Friends, that attitude doesn’t wash with our God. If we require His forgiveness, then we must also be willing to forgive others. So let’s think seriously about that aspect of our lives nuh, for it’s a major cause of the rampant attitude problems in our society. If we keep anger and resentment in our hearts and refuse to forgive, it not only jeopardizes our physical and emotional health, but more importantly our spiritual well being, since we’ll lose our connection to God. He won’t answer our requests if our hearts are filled with unforgiveness. And Jesus made that perfectly clear afterwards. ‘For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your heavenly Father forgive your trespasses.’ (vs.14-15) Friends, that’s as clear as day. So those who have ears to hear, let them hear. Then Jesus says we should implore the Lord’s help in resisting the daily temptations that accost us in this sinful world. ‘And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.’ Though the Lord doesn’t tempt us to do wrong, He does test our faithfulness at times, and it’s especially in those times of testing that we need His help. As Peter says; ‘The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations…’ (2 Pet.2:9) He also knows how to deliver us from evil. Jesus prayed that for His disciples, and us too, before He was arrested. ‘I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from evil.’ (John 17:15)  Ah Friends, from this simple, but content full prayer, it’s obvious that our God can support all our needs. Then, most appropriately, Jesus ends the prayer on a note of praise, just like how he began it. So though Jesus’ wording was unique and somewhat different from the old Testament prayers, He built it in basically the same manner: Opening with praise and adoration; acknowledging God’s promises and faithfulness, then introducing one’s request and ending with praise and adoration again. Oh Friends, there’s nothing our God likes more than our coming to Him in prayer, reverently blessing and praising His Holy Name. Let’s see if we can do that more often nuh; like in all our waking moments, everyday, keeping Him first place in our hearts. Much LOVE!…our joy in Jesus…brings joy to Jesus…

Today’s Scrip-Bit 2 October 2008 Job 42:17‏

02 Oct 2008 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Job 42:17    So Job died, being old and full of days.
EULOGY FOR AUBREY BROWN

 Ah Friends, I know we were to continue with the Lord’s Prayer, but the Lord dictated a change of plans. It’s another time of mourning for the Brown family, that wonderful group of people who adopted me when I first went to Jamaica as a student at the U.W.I campus at Mona. The Matriarch, Aunt Amy, passed away earlier this year, now the Patriarch, Uncle Aubs, has also gone to be with the Lord. Ah Uncle Aubs, you’ll never know, and I doubt you can fathom my appreciation for the kindness, the unconditional LOVE, you and Aunt Ames, showed me. I guess when you all talk to the Father in heaven, He’ll explain what a godsend you were to me. I always admired your quiet demeanour. You never said a whole lot, didn’t lose your cool, just let Aunt Ames be the fiery one. Your temperament balanced hers nicely. That doesn’t mean you were a push over, far from it. It’s just that if things were running smoothly, you were smart enough not to interfere. And even when you all disagreed, you were never loud, or obnoxious, but your displeasure was quite evident. I remember the days when you and I were the only two males in the house, surrounded by at least six females. We never had as many one and one chats, as I did with Aunt Ames, but the few we had were always insightful. Come to think of it Uncle Aubs, you were the only man I’ve ever had a close, fatherly sort of relationship with. My real father and I never saw eye to eye, though now I’m beginning to appreciate him much more than I ever did. I guess age and hindsight do bring reason. Like you, he didn’t talk much, was cool and reserved, but friendly, wasn’t given to loud arguments either. But we just had different opinions on most subjects. I do believe that a bit of you rubbed off on me, for I was just approaching manhood, still wet behind the ears, my first time being so far away from home, knowing no one, in a fairly different society setup, when I came under your caring umbrella. I’m sure, subconsciously, I’ve modeled some aspects of my life on you, especially that of living the last thirty odd years, surrounded by a bevy of women. Hn! This time though I was the only man, and I doubt I’ve been as successful as you were. My patience level was never as high as yours, and they still don’t listen to me anyway. (smile) Obviously I didn’t learn well enough from you. Uncle Aubs, you weren’t a saint, but you did have some good influence on me. For that, the Lord will reward you handsomely. And though I haven’t seen you in about ten years, I know you always asked about me and I’ve done the same. You and Aunt Ames will forever remain in my heart. There’s only one way I can think of you all, and that’s fondly, for at a crucial point in my life, when I needed good guidance, you both provided it to me. I know that after Aunt Ames went home, you lost your zest for life, cause she was your life; she stoked your fire, and I’m sure that you’re happy now. I can see the big smiles on both of your faces as you all reunite in the place that’s heaven. And you’ve certainly received Abraham’s promise: ‘And thou shalt go to thy fathers in peace; thou shalt be buried in a good old age.’  (Gen.15:15) You certainly lived a full life. We’ll all agree that ninety something is a ripe old age for these times. Ah Uncle Aubs, words really can’t convey my loving feelings and gratitude to you and Aunt Ames and your entire family. Chuh! There go those stupid tears again. I’ll just let them flow this time. For as I keep telling my children, without you all, there might have been no them. I can look back now and see the gracious hand of God reaching out to me, showering me with loving kindness, when He brought you all into my life. Thanks ever so much. Much LOVE!…be not forgetful to entertain strangers…for thereby some have entertained angels…

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