Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 January 2009 Proverbs 17:17‏

11 Jan 2009 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Proverbs 17:17     A Friend LOVETH at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
 
Oh People, that’s one of the two most profound statements made in the history of humanity; ‘A Friend LOVETH at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.’ And what’s the other? ‘Man’s inhumanity to man, makes countless thousands mourn.’ Exactly what’s happening around our world right now; strife, oppression, war, genocide, all the negatives attached to inhumane acts, or as we call them in our politically correct society, ‘crimes against humanity.’ Hn! Granted, it’s been happening for eons, but the world was not as widely populated, neither were communications so speedy, so it did not seem as woeful. But regardless of how, when and where it occurs, it’s still a very sad commentary on the human species, and must constantly bring tears of sorrow to our Heavenly Father’s eyes, causing Him to doubt the wisdom of His creation, because all the nonsense we perpetrate against each other benefits nobody. The terrorism and suicidal stupidity, the fear mongering, the military aggression, Russia cutting off supplies of gas to Europe, in the dead of winter, because of a money dispute with the Ukraine, through which the gas is routed, the rioting in Greece, Israel and Hamas in Gaza, and the list goes on. Whom does all that senseless destruction, inhumane, greedy, retaliatory attitudes help eh? Nobody! It just breeds more of the same senseless anger and violence, solving nothing, only proving our thoughtless, blood-thirsty stupidity. But if we were really the smartest animal on earth, as we claim, then we’d be following the axiom, ‘A Friend LOVETH at all times and a brother is born for adversity.’ That would prove we’re the smartest, and also please our Creator immensely, giving His tear ducts a much needed rest. And the best way to explain the statement is by giving examples. Let’s start with Ruth. We know the story; that after Naomi’s husband and two sons died, she decided to go back to her own country, telling her daughters-in-law to do the same. One, Orprah did. But Ruth pleaded: ‘Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God, my God. Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.’ (Ruth 1.16-17) Though Ruth’s ties to Naomi died with her husband, she felt that strong urge to stay with her, knowing that Naomi’s future was rather dim at her age, with no men folk to look after her in a very patriarchal society. And it was rough with them both, Ruth having to scavenge behind the gleaners in the field for food, until the Lord intervened through Boaz, a distant but wealthy cousin of Naomi’s. He eventually married Ruth and they had a son, Obed, the father of Jesse, the father of Bruh David. People yuh see how the Lord moves? And there was Bruh David himself; the LOVE his wife Michal, Saul’s daughter showed when she helped him escape from her father by letting him down a rope through a window, then camouflaging his bed with pillows and goat hair, claiming he was sick. When Saul discovered her ruse and blew up at her, she simply claimed, ‘He said unto me, Let me go; why should I kill thee?’ (1 Sam.19:17) Bruh David’s friendship with Saul’s son, Jonathan, and the bond they swore to look after each other’s family, is another example of friends standing together. Jonathan also deceived his father to save Bruh David’s life, even back chatting Saul and getting him so angry that he threw a javelin at him. Then after Jonathan’s demise, Bruh David championed his crippled son Mephibosheth by restoring all his family’s property and having him eat always at his table. The same goes for Elijah and Elisha. When the Lord wanted to take Elijah up to heaven in a whirlwind, Elijah told Elisha that the Lord had summoned him to Bethel, but he should stay in Gilgal. Elisha replied, ‘As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. So they went down to Bethel.’ (2 Kings 2:2) At Bethel the same thing happened, so they went down to Jericho. And so it went, until after they crossed the Jordan River, Elijah was eventually taken up in a chariot of fire, which Elisha saw, and so received his last request, a double portion of Elijah’s spirit. Oh Friends, that’s what brotherly LOVE and Friendship are about: People sticking to people both in good and bad times, not deserting the ship like scared rats as soon as it springs a leak, or only being in it for one’s own selfish purposes. And to top it all off Friends, we have the greatest act of LOVE and Friendship that’s ever taken place: Jesus coming to earth as a human being, to die for us, so that our sins could be forgiven and our souls cleansed. He told His disciples: ‘This is my commandment, That ye LOVE one another, as I have LOVED you. Greater LOVE hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’  (John 15:12-13) Then He went out and laid down His life for us, proving by example, His LOVE and Friendship. Now we need to reciprocate that LOVE and Friendship? How? Jesus said, ‘Ye are my Friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.’ (John 15:14) Oh people, let’s follow His humble example nuh, and do as He asks?  Our world, and our children’s would be so much better off for it. And compared to what He’s done for us, it’s precious little that He asks. Much LOVE!…a true friend…has unquenchable LOVE…that is not diminished by adversity…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 January 2009 Psalm 128:1-2‏

10 Jan 2009 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

 Psalm 128:1-2    Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.
 
Ah my Friends, what more can we ask of our God eh? ‘Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways.’ It’s simple and to the point. You do what pleases Him and you get blessed. Nothing could be more straightforward. If we honour and glorify our God, show Him reverence, obeisance and obedience, then our lives will be blessed, not only in heaven, but right here on planet earth. ‘Blessed are the undefiled (blameless) in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies and that seek him with the whole heart.’ (Ps.119: 1-2) Yes people, our heart must be right towards Him, be sincere, seek Him for all the right reasons; LOVE, Trust, Adoration, Worship, Obedience, etc.  ‘Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him.’ (Eccl. 8:12) Oh my brethren, such was the confidence of the Preacher in the faithfulness of the Lord. Even though sinners sinned and had long lives, he still believed that a man who praised and obeyed God, would certainly be favoured by the Most High. And that’s gospel people, cause when our acts please the Lord, He turns around and blesses us, rewards us for our faithfulness. ‘For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.’ Isaiah attested to it. ‘Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him: for they shall eat the fruit of their doing.’ (Is.3:10) Yes my Friends, when we are faithful, the work of our hands prospers; everything we touch is multiplied through the mercy and loving-kindness of the Lord. And this is nothing new. Moses said it to the Israelites long ago. ‘Thou shalt keep therefore his statutes, and his commandments this day, that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee, and that thou mayest prolong thy days upon the earth, which the Lord thy God giveth thee, for ever.’ (Deut.4:40) Oh people, what about that don’t we understand eh? Obey and you will be rewarded. It’s the same message we’ve been taught from since Adam was a little boy. Remember that one? (smile) But for some strange, unknown reason, we simply refuse to listen, instead choose to go our own wayward way, wherein we suffer endless disappointment, pain and grief. Friends, all the great men of faith, not only said it, but proved it with their lives. Still, to this very day, we insist on being disobedient, yet wonder why certain calamities befall us. People it doesn’t involve any rocket science; just be reverent and obedient and your faithfulness will be greatly rewarded. I guess it seems too easy for us to accept without reservations, just like salvation. We figure there must be some catch to it. Such great stuff could never be so easily come by. But Friends we’re plain wrong. Hear what happens when you’re faithful. ‘Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the Lord.’ (Ps.128:3-4) Oh people, what greater earthly blessings can we have eh? The works of our hands will prosper. Our wives will be fruitful like the ivy that runs up the side of our houses; our children plentiful like olive plants around us. ‘Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man: so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.’ (Ps.127: 3-5) Yes Friends, life will surely be good with us, if we stay true and faithful to the Lord God Jehovah. We’ll obviously have some problems, cause the world is just filled with them, but we’ll feel safe, secure, looked after and cared for, knowing with the utmost certainty that the Lord is in our corner. Consequently, we’ll be well able to deal with the problems realistically, enjoy overall success, gloriously ending up with salvation and eternal life with Jesus our Saviour! Wow! What could be better? I’ll say it again. Nothing my Friends! Absolutely Nothing! And it’s guaranteed too, through the Word. That’s the Lord’s eternal warranty, backing all His promises, which, unlike sinful man, He never reneges on. So what’s it to be people? It’s your call. Remember, you’ll never be truly happy, even with all the earthly possessions at your disposal. Only when you let Jesus into that special place in your heart that the Father created and prepared for it, will you know true happiness. Much LOVE!…it’s always worth repeating…trust and obey…for there’s no better way…to be happy in Jesus…than to trust and obey…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 January 2009 Revelation 3:19‏

09 Jan 2009 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Revelation 3:19    As many as I LOVE, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore and repent.
 
That’s a message we’d all do well to comply with my Friends! Originally it was meant for the church at Laodicea, one of the 7 churches in Asia that John claimed to have received messages for in his vision. ‘The seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.’ (Rev.2:20.) (Ephesus, Smyrna, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Pergamos and Laodicea) Jesus had a particular message for each one, per His view of their spiritual shortcomings. That for Laodicea is rather interesting. ‘I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth.’ (Rev.3:15-16) The church at Laodicea is compared to lukewarm water because it has few useful purposes. Water must either be hot or cold to fulfil most of our jobs for it. The message therefore is to be passionate about one thing or another; don’t sit on the fence, be either for or against, hot or cold, not lukewarm. And since Jesus considers the church lukewarm, then it’s virtually worthless, and He’ll spit it out, cast them aside because of their lack of spiritual enthusiasm. The subject of lukewarm water appears to be more than just John’s imagery. It seems Laodicea received its water via aqueducts from other areas, and by the time it arrived there it was really lukewarm and induced nausea. So John’s metaphor was right on. But they made up for the lack of water in being an otherwise wealthy city of bankers, a medical school, a popular eye ointment and a bustling textile industry. Consequently, they were more concerned with their earthly wealth than their spiritual life. ‘Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor and blind and naked. I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.’ (Rev.3:17-18) Oh Friends, John cleverly refers to the things they were well known for, and doesn’t it sound just like our present day world, where we’re all caught up with material possessions and earthly concerns, seeking to become rich in those things, while neglecting our more important spiritual health? Remember the human being is both physical and spiritual. The physical dies and returns to the dust from whence it came, but the spiritual lives on forever, either in darkness and damnation with the enemy, or light and eternal life with Jesus. That means we should all be paying very close attention to our spiritual health, because that’s the part that lives on, but unfortunately, too many of us are neglecting it. Oh People, Jesus LOVES us all, LOVES us so much that He doesn’t want to lose anybody to the enemy, which leads Him to say; ‘As many as I LOVE, I rebuke and chasten.’ We all do the same thing; it’s standard procedure for caring humans. We rebuke or  chasten  our children or LOVED ones when they don’t do right, so why should it be any different with Jesus, especially when He’s the epitome, the personification of LOVE? When Job’s friend, Eliphaz rebuked him, he said, ‘Behold, happy is the man who God correcteth: therefore despise not the chastening of the Almighty. For he maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole.’ (Job 5:17-18) And Solomon advised: ‘My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord LOVETH he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.’ (Prov.3:11-12) So the Lord’s no different to us; He practices tough LOVE too. So why are we surprised when He rebukes or chastens us eh? If He didn’t care greatly, have a heart full of unconditional LOVE for us, He’d just let us go about our own selfish, stupid business and pay the dire consequences afterwards. But just like us, who try to correct our LOVED ones when we see them going astray, He tries to bring us back to the tried and true path from which we’ve diverged. And it’s simple; ‘be zealous therefore and repent.’ Oh people, please remember one thing; whatever the Lord does in our lives, it’s not for His benefit, but for OURS. The same way we correct our children for their benefit. And despite all our shortcomings, our disobedience, and our lustful earthly preoccupation, Jesus shows His great LOVE, by still extending an invitation to us.’Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame and am set down with my Father in his throne.’ (Rev.3:20-21) Oh Friends, right now, at this very moment, Jesus is knocking on the door of all our hearts. Please, let’s all throw open the doors wide and invite Him in, as a most honoured and cherished guest, to dine with us. It would be such a wonderful occasion; the food, drink and entertainment would be par excellence. And after that we can sit with Him on His throne, next to His Father. Wow! What an occasion! And all God’s people said: ‘Glory Hallelujah to the Lamb, for He is worthy to be praised!’ Oh Friends, do we want to spend eternity in darkness and damnation? Of course not! Then let’s accept Jesus’ offer; it’s the best one going. Also remember that 2009 is the Year of Rejuvenation, and what better place to start than with our spiritual health! Much LOVE!…he that hath an ear…let him hear…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 8 January 2009 1 Peter 1:13‏

08 Jan 2009 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

1 Peter 1:13   Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
 
That’s certainly what we need to do in 2009 Friends! Peter’s calling the early believers to dedicate themselves to a life based on Christian principles. And now, at this tumultuous crossroads of time in our world, my Friends, I want to reissue that call. I want us to rededicate ourselves to living a truly Christian lifestyle. However, knowing all the scripture, doctrine, who said what etc. and putting it into practice are two entirely different things, and we’ll never realize nor enjoy the full value of a Christian life until we sincerely practice the principles in our everyday lives. We’ve already acknowledged that it’s easier said than done, but everything in this world is, yet we still accomplish difficult tasks because we study what we want to do, lay out a plan for it, then discipline ourselves to follow it. It’s like losing weight: We can all lose it, but very few keep it off, because we have to change our lifestyles and become disciplined to the new way, which doesn’t happen overnight or in a short period of time either. Dedication to a true Christian life is exactly the same. We claim to be Christians, followers of Christ, then to be truly that, we must follow Christ’s plan for living, which in its simplest form breaks down to LOVING God, your neighbour and yourself. So where do we start? Obviously by studying the plan; that’s the Bible; the Good Book; the Word. And having studied the guidelines, we start putting them into practice in our lives; one by one, slowly, learning as we go, what works and what doesn’t. That’s why Peter declared: ‘Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind…’ Tighten the belt of your mind; for once the heart has made a conscious decision to follow Christ and His principles for earthly living, then it’s the responsibility of the mind to put that decision into action. It’s the mind’s job to bring the body under control, to do what it takes to make the dream a reality. So we need to discipline ourselves, both internally and externally; think wholesome God-focused thoughts that will lead us to external Christ-like conduct. As Bruh Paul advises: ‘Finally brethren, whatsoever things are true…honest…just…pure…lovely…of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.’ (Phil.4:8) So there we have it in a nutshell people; the things we should concentrate on; those that deal with truth, honesty, justice, purity, loveliness, goodness, virtue and praise. Now once we discipline ourselves to concentrate on those Christian principles, then we have to ‘be sober,’ don’t get too high, or low for that matter, either mentally, emotionally or spiritually, cause if we allow ourselves to get intoxicated on any level, then we’re liable to lose focus and balance, weave all over the place until we crash into no man’s land. It’s just like if we imbibe too much alcohol; it destroys our natural ‘riddim,’ blurs and disrupts both our mental and bodily functions, so that we’re unable to walk a straight line. And Friends, it’s hard enough to walk the Christian straight line sober, just imagine doing it intoxicated, over emotional and unbalanced. And why, you ask, are we putting ourselves through this not easy process that differs considerably from what the world around us eschews as the good life? Because we ‘hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you, at the revelation of Jesus Christ.’ Yes people, it’s the hope of the real good life; the great, unimaginable rewards we’ll receive when Jesus comes back to set up His Eternal Kingdom. Alexandre Dumas said that ‘All human wisdom is summed up in two words: wait and hope.’ And Bruh Paul claims, ‘If we hope for what we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.’ (Rom.8:25) And what are we hoping in patience, waiting in faith for? The New Jerusalem! ‘And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: and I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.’ (Rev.21:1-5) Oh Friends, that’s the salvation, the eternal life we’ve got to look forward to if we embrace Jesus and faithfully follow Him. Sadly though, it’s got be a conscious, personal decision for every human being. No one can make us do, or not do it. What it boils down to people, is who offers the best retirement package; the enemy, with death and eternal damnation, or Jesus, with salvation and eternal life? I’m casting my vote for Jesus, throwing my hat in the ring with Him, cause He has the most caring, concerned and considerate benefits. Hope you feel the same way too. Much LOVE!…as for me and mine…hn!…without a doubt…we’ll definitely follow Jesus…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 7 January 2009 Psalm 56:3‏

07 Jan 2009 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Psalm 56:3    What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
 
Oh Friends, what a poignant, heartfelt statement! It’s simple, yet powerful, brooking no doubt of the Psalmist’s intense faith. It’s a statement that all believers should feel in their hearts and souls, and utter with as much faith and authority as Bruh David did. Before we go further, let me say that this is one of the Lord’s mysterious movements. I didn’t plan on using a Psalm today, but for some reason, when checking my log, I found that I’d written yesterday’s Bit as Psalm 56 instead of 76. So being curious, I checked out Psalm 56. And the rest, as they say, is history. (smile) I don’t know why the Lord guided me to it, but whom am I to question His direction eh? But Psalm 56 sure is powerful! It’s a Michtam of Bruh David’s; a soulful contemplation, when the Philistines took him in Gath. It’s a prayer for help, a confident one nonetheless. Some might wonder why I admire Bruh David so much, since in some circles he’s simply considered an adulterer and a murderer, but that’s only one small instance in his rather unique life. Remember what Jesus said to the hypocrites that wanted to stone the adulteress? ‘He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.’ (John 8:7) And what happened? They all walked away shamefaced, leaving only Jesus and the woman, whom He subsequently forgave. And if Bruh David was worthy enough in the Lord’s sight, to make His Only Son, Jesus be born of his line, then that’s good enough for me. But the facts show that Bruh David was a man of many parts. I guess you could term him a Renaissance man; a forward thinker, who was accomplished in several areas; war, poetry, music, romance, leadership, all bundled up in a supreme faith in the God of his fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Sorry, I forgot one of his accomplishments; actor extraordinaire. It seems this Psalm was written when Bruh David fled from Saul for the umpteenth time, after his final meeting with Saul’s son Jonathan. He went first to Nob, to the priest Ahimelech, who was surprised to see him alone, and questioned him. Bruh David gave him some nansi story about being on a secret mission for the king, talked him into giving him holy bread and the sword which he’d used on Goliath, then he made tracks to the Philistine land of Gath, seeking a safe haven. However, the king’s servants recognized him and asked; ‘Is not this David, the king of the land? did they not sing one to another of him in dances, saying, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands? And David laid up these words in his heart, and was sore afraid of Achish the king of Gath. And he changed his behaviour before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard. Then Achish said unto his servants, Lo, ye see the man is mad; wherefore then have ye brought him to me? Have I need of mad men, that ye have brought this fellow to play the mad man in my presence? Shall this fellow come into my house?’ (1 Sam.21:10-15) Ah Friends, Bruh David certainly had much manly parts (smile) to seek sanctuary alone in the Philistine’s land, having killed their main man Goliath and many others, and when recognized, put on an acting performance worthy of an Oscar. But people, what we need to note though is that whatever befell him, good or bad, he always turned with confidence to the Lord. This was one of those times when he was completely alone, fearing for his life from both Saul and the Philistines. And what did he do? He turned to his God. ‘Be merciful unto me, O God: for man would swallow me up; he fighting daily oppresseth me…for they be many that fight against me, O thou Most High.’ (vs.1-2) And then, having cried out to his God for help, he shows his true mettle. ‘What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do to me.’ (vs.3-4) Oh Friends, can we make such a bold, fearless statement? If we are true believers, who’ve surrendered our all to Jesus, then we should. It’s the hallmark of true faith. Sadly though, faith’s not an easy thing to come by. We only grow in faith through trials and tribulations, when we’ve nowhere or no one to turn to but God, like Bruh David here. ‘When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me. In God will I praise his word: in the Lord will I praise his word. In God have I put my trust; I will not be afraid what man can do unto me. Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee. For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?’ (vs.9-13) Oh Friends, nuff said! May we all seek to acquire that level of faith and trust in the Most High God, where even in our darkest moments, those of deep anguish, fear and sorrow, we can still call out to Him and be assured that He will not only hear us, but also lift us up out of the mire. Much LOVE!…the heart that’s filled with faith…always conquers fear…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 6 January 2009 Psalm 76:11‏

06 Jan 2009 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Psalm 76:11    Vow and pay unto the Lord your God: let all that be round about him bring presents unto him that ought to be feared.
 
As promised Friends, we’ll continue where we left off yesterday. The ole fella was on a roll, (smile) and it would just have been too long, and with the short attention spans that now prevail, where, if it can’t be said, or read in fifteen seconds or less, we’re not interested, I didn’t want to lose any of the Word, so I left the rest for today. But people that brings up an interesting point, a sore one with me; if we can’t take a few minutes out of every 24 hours, that’s 1440 minutes to focus on God, our Creator, our Father, the One whom we claim to trust in and LOVE so much, who provides us with daily sustenance, then something’s seriously wrong. We’re only joking about our faith, letting the enemy program us to his dictates. But that’s another topic for another day. Yesterday, we dealt with the first part of the Bit; ‘Vow and pay unto the Lord your God.’ But it’s also incumbent upon us to remember to ‘let all that be round about him bring presents unto him that ought to be feared.’ And why not eh? Oh Friends, we pay obeisance, bow, scrape and give of our best to earthly men who lord it over us, oftimes without just cause, so why not the Father of Creation? He surely deserves it much more than the lowly mortals we so humbly and respectfully kowtow to. Giving generously to God is an aspect of worship that I don’t think we take seriously enough. Perhaps we figure God doesn’t need gifts, seeing that He has everything, or wonder what He’d do with them. But remember Friends, God’s work is never done. There are always sick, hurting, poor, or needy people to help, and unbelievers to spread the Word to. In addition to which the priests, missionaries and those who devote their lives solely to spreading the gospel, they need sustenance too. They can’t be expected to tell unbelievers about all the good things Jesus did and will do for them, while they are seen to be leading pitiful, scrounging lives. The best way to convert others to our way of thinking is by not only talking the part, but also looking it. I know we have to dress for success, but we also have to draw the line at a sensible spot. Some of our preachers today dress the part a tad too much; which is a whole new topic, again for another day. (smile) But all of that aside people, as genuine believers, we ought to be just so thankful for God’s mercies and goodness that our hearts naturally tend to generosity. In Old Testament times it was customary to give generously to God for whatever success came your way, because you sincerely believed that He had a hand in it. ‘Thus the Lord saved Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib the king of Assyria, and from the hand of all other, and guided them on every side. And many brought gifts unto the Lord to Jerusalem, and presents to Hezekiah king of Judah: so that he was magnified in the sight of all the nations from thenceforth.’ (2 Chron.32:22-23) Yes people, so ought we to magnify, glorify and exalt our God; giving Him gifts of precious things out of a generous and grateful heart, for without Him, we’re nothing!  Bruh David also sets a good example in that respect. It says in 2 Samuel 8, that when Toi, king of Hamath heard that Bruh David had defeated the army of Hadadezer, he sent his son Joram to thank and bless him, for Toi had been fighting Hadadezer unsuccessfully for some time. ‘And Joram brought with him vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and vessels of brass. Which also king David did dedicate unto the Lord, with the silver and gold that he had dedicated of all nations which he subdued.’ (vs.10-11) How could the Lord not LOVE Bruh David eh Friends? He generously gave back to God, a portion of whatever the Lord caused him to acquire. I remember, growing up in Tobago, harvest time was my favourite church occasion, when all the fruits of the land, unblemished of course, would be offered before the Lord, and the people would sing and be joyful, give thanks and praise for the goodness of God, enabling them to produce such a bountiful harvest. I guess that has been reduced in its intensity, like most things pertaining to God nowadays. But Friends, I can’t impress upon us enough, the importance of giving to God. Why? It’s simple, elementary really: As generous as we are to Him, that’s exactly how generous He will be to us. Remember, it takes two to tango, and one hand washes the other. (smile) Much LOVE!…give glory to God…exalt His Name…for He is the giver of all good things…

Today’s Scrip-Bit 5 January 2009 Psalm 76:11‏

05 Jan 2009 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Psalm 76:11    Vow and pay unto the Lord your God: let all that be round about him bring presents unto him that ought to be feared.
 
Psalm 76; A Song of Asaph deals with three topics: First is deliverance from an enemy in Salem; (vs.1-10) ‘In Judah is God known: his name is great in Israel. In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion. There he break the arrows of the bow, the shield and the sword and the battle. Selah.’ (vs.1-3) Smartly interwoven into the words of deliverance is the second aspect; praise. ‘Thou art more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey.’ (vs.4) Thou, even thou art to be feared: and who may stand in thy sight when once thou art angry?’ (vs.7) ‘Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee..’ (vs.10) Finally, as a consequence of God’s deliverance, His merciful blessing, the Psalmist calls on his people to submit to God’s sovereignty. ‘Vow and pay unto the Lord your God.’ It is very meet and right for us to do so Friends, cause He’s the victorious God of the entire universe, who continuously showers us with blessings of mercy, forgiveness, loving kindness and unconditional LOVE. However, He doesn’t joke when it comes to promises. Way back when, Moses warned the Israelites: ‘If a man vow a vow unto the Lord, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.’ (Num.30:2) But Friends, how many times have we done otherwise eh; found ourselves in a sticky situation, then pleaded plaintively with the Lord for help and mercy, promising to do this, that and everything if He bails us out, then conveniently forgetting after He’s saved our skin, thinking that it didn’t matter? But people, it does matter, a whole lot too, cause our God takes promises very seriously; His, as well as ours. Please consider the Preacher’s advice: ‘When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed. Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than thou shouldest vow and not pay. Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin: neither say thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thy hands?’ (Eccl.5:4-6) Yes Friends, it’s ever so important that we choose our words carefully, not only before God, but also man. God stands neither fools nor deceivers kindly, as do most men. So it’s much safer just to ask for something without making any promises, although that’s the prevailing style in our society right now; to make outlandish promises without any intentions of keeping them, or finding convenient loopholes to escape from our responsibilities. Just check out all the great promos and ads all around us, the wonderful warranties on inferior products. But try to collect on some of those promises nuh; it’s worse than pulling teeth without anaesthetic. That’s why our society is falling apart people; it has devolved into an untrustworthy, fly by night, scheming, get rich quick, get all you can rat race. It used to be that there was honour amongst thieves. Hn! Now even that has vanished. But beware Friends, our God doesn’t play that game. His whole creation is built on His promises, that’s why we surrender our very souls, put our every bit of trust in Him, so why should He accept it when we break ours? As the Psalmist rightly stated: ‘Thou, even thou art to be feared: and who can stand in thy sight when once thou art angry?’ Nobody! Friends, I humbly suggest that getting God angry at us is a very unwise thing to do. And, per the preacher, don’t break your vow and say that it was a mistake either, cause God’s likely to get mad at you and destroy your handiwork. So let’s remember to think carefully before we vow, whether to God or man. And if we do vow, be honest, take pride in our word and say honourably, like Bruh David: ‘I will go into thy house with burnt offerings: I will pay thee my vows, which my lips have uttered, and my mouth hath spoken, when I was in trouble.’ (Ps.66:13-14) That’s why the Lord honoured Bruh David; he was man enough to keep his promises. We should all be that honourable Friends. Much LOVE!…let our hearts…guide our tongues…to words of honour… To be continued.
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 4 January 2009 Ecclesiastes 3:4‏

04 Jan 2009 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Ecclesiastes 3:4    A time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.
 
Yes my Friends, the Wise One, Solomon said; ‘To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.’  (Eccl.3:1) And if Sol says so, then it’s so. (smile) Oh people, I believe it’s now our time to laugh and dance. We’ve wept and mourned enough during the past year, reaping the evil we sowed earlier on. The year 2009 is an auspicious one in all our lives; welcoming a change of season, wherein we’ll plant different seeds, seeds that will allow us to prosper; a time to laugh, sing, dance, give thanks and praise to heaven. Why? Because we can’t go around mourning and weeping forever over what we’ve lost, or don’t have, instead we must start giving thanks and praise for what we do have, which is more than the majority of the world, and consequently, in gratitude for our relative prosperity, vow to share it with the less fortunate. Friends, we’re much more productive when our souls are unstressed and not anxious about too many things. And they say the best medicine for the anxious, depressed, concerned soul is laughter. It’s the cheapest, most cost effective and most easily come by medicine. You don’t need any health care coverage, doctors or appointments to see them, which means no line ups or long waits, and it cleanses and purifies the soul like nothing else on God’s good earth. That’s why when you laugh loud, long and hearty, tears come to your eyes; you’re cleansing your soul. In addition to that, I believe it was Winston Churchill who said that a man’s greatest character trait is the ability to laugh at himself. And that’s very true. Elsa Maxwell also advises, ‘Laugh at yourself first, before anybody else can.’ That certainly helps in embarrassing situations. If you laugh first, it doesn’t feel so bad when others laugh too. But if they laugh first, then you always feel more embarrassed. And remember that humour also draws others to us, for we all like, jolly, jovial people, since they’re much more fun to be around. Oh people, as I’ve been emphasizing the last few days, this is a year of rebuilding on the solid foundation of Jesus. If we embrace Him in our innermost being, then we’ll have joy; joy from what He’s already done for us, and what He’s promised to do in the future. And when you have joy in your soul, laughter bubbles up automatically, and when you’re laughing, a natural urge to sing and dance overcomes you. It’s just the way the Creator designed us. And in one of Jesus’ most prophetic and moving sermons, that on the Mount, with the Beatitudes, He unequivocally declared: ‘Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now, for ye shall laugh.’ (Luke 6:21) Oh Friends, we’ve been weeping long enough, it’s time for us to laugh. It’s time for us to lighten up, to get out of the doom and gloom scenario we’ve been thrown into by our leaders and those who are supposed to know better, but obviously didn’t, and still don’t, because they are agents of the enemy, purveyors of his evil, oppressive schemes designed to keep us forever in darkness and death. But that’s not God’s plan. He designed us to live in hope, with some tears, but mostly those of joy and laughter. Friends, there’s a new world order on the horizon that shows promise of a brighter day. But for it to become a reality, we must all embrace it and work diligently to bring it to fulfillment. Otherwise, it’ll be just the same ole khaki pants; death, darkness and destruction. It’s time to get rid of that negative mindset. The house of cards has collapsed. Time to dig ourselves out and rebuild. And the best way to do that is with a new attitude of empowerment based on the eternal, ever-living, everlasting Word of God. It’s time to rise up. We’ve still got life, which means we’re also full of hope. The sun’s still rising everyday, and though we may not see it cause it’s blanketed by clouds, we know for sure that it’s there. That tells us people that the Creator, the One who made us, the earth and all therein is still in control, and once He’s at the helm, everything’s right with the world, and we have nothing to fear. So let’s shake off all the lethargy, the worry, replace the long faces and droopy jaws with smiles and songs of hope in our hearts, which will naturally bring laughter to our souls and high stepping movements to our feet. Oh Friends, let me repeat; the time for weeping and mourning are over; it’s rebuilding time; time to laugh and dance. So in the joyful tradition of that great man of faith, Bruh David, let’s sing and dance before the Lord nuh. We have lots of reasons for it. Not the least being that Jesus died so that we could be cleansed, come out of darkness into the light and have peace and joy in our souls. Let’s put some humour in our times of crisis. It makes it much easier to bear. Much LOVE!…tis the season…to laugh…to sing…to give praise.. and to dance… P.S. Friends, I just had a sudden realization: When I began writing this, I felt lousy; a touch of the flu, aches and pains all over, suffering from the winter blahs and a definite deficiency of sunshine and salt water (smile) but I’m hanging on in faith, to correct that deficiency soon, seeing myself on the beach in warm sunshine. Anyway, after a cup of caffeine and diligent delving into the Word, the flu and fever are behind me, the adrenalin’s flowing. I now find myself refreshed and eager to face life’s challenges. (smile) What a mighty instrument of healing is the Word of God. Good for all ills. No specific dosage. Take as often as necessary. Works wonders in no time. What better medicine can there be eh? None! Try it sometime. Much LOVE!
 

 
 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 3 January 2009 1 Peter 4:12-13‏

03 Jan 2009 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

1 Peter 4:12-13    Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
 
Ah Friends, it’s certainly a rough and cruel world that we inhabit, but ‘dem’s jes the breaks.’ As Frank Sinatra crooned, ‘That’s life!’ And as followers of Jesus, we know that we’ll experience some tribulation, because our modus operandi doesn’t jive with that of the fallen world. Jesus wants us to live by and through His Holy Spirit which definitely runs counter to that of the world and its fleshly lusts. So on that basis alone, we know there’ll be problems, not even considering our normal, everyday trials. However, compared to the early Christians whom Peter is addressing, we have it rather easy. In their time the faith was still new, with lots of opposition and persecution, so they needed to be exceedingly strong to withstand the tribulation that was very likely to befall them. Not many of us today are put in jail, stoned or thrown to savage beasts simply because of our theological belief. But for those early believers that was a real possibility, consequently they needed lots of encouragement and assurance to stand strong under less than favourable circumstances. That’s why Peter said; ‘Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice,’ Hn! That’s easier said than done, even in our more enlightened, less oppressive times. I’m sure Peter didn’t realize that in later centuries, the fiery trial he talked about figuratively would be applied to many believers when they were burned at the stake. But Friends, remember that Jesus said He’s overcome the world, conquered it through His Birth, Death and Resurrection, so we need not worry about that any longer. On those grounds, Peter could well declare, ‘But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.’ Oh Friends, I know it sounds tough, but instead of viewing it from the negative trials and tribulations of this life, take the long term view of the rewards; of salvation, of eternal life with Jesus when He returns in all His triumphant majesty and glory. Just keep that day in your mind’s eye, and it should make all the trials easier to bear. It’s certainly one of those times when the rewards justify the suffering. James advised: ‘My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations. Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.’ (James 1:2-3) That’s one way of dealing with the unfortunate things that befall us; consider them patience builders, faith testers, for on many occasions that’s exactly why the Lord allows them in our lives. He’s either testing our faith, to see if we’re ready for promotion, or building it. And Friends, sadistic as it sounds, there’s no better faith builder than tribulation. Also, since we, as believers, have the Holy Spirit of God dwelling within us, Jesus expects us to be good stewards of the Father’s grace. Bruh Paul solemnly told Timothy; ‘Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even to bonds; but the word of God is not bound. Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.’ (2 Tim.2:9-10) Yes People, Bruh Paul was willing to suffer imprisonment and other abuse, so that he could get the gospel to others and also set an example of persistence and fortitude for the new believers. We ought to do likewise. Not necessarily risk imprisonment for our beliefs, but if it turns out that way, then we should be strong and bear it with God’s grace. ‘It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him. If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us. If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.’ (2 Tim.2:11-13) Yes Friends, that’s the prescription for being a good soldier of Christ; accept trials with faith and humility, so that our names will be emblazoned in the Lamb’s Book of Life when the day of reckoning arrives. On that glorious day, when the trumpet calls up yonder, all the ‘sufferation’ we’ve endured in His Name will be worth it as he greets us with open arms, and proudly says; ‘Welcome, thou good and faithful servant!" Oh Friends, what a day that will be! Let’s aim for that reward nuh people. Much LOVE!…when the trumpet sounds up yonder…we’ll be there…when the trumpet sounds up yonder…yes…we’ll be there…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 2 January 2009 Job 13:15-16‏

02 Jan 2009 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Job 13:15-16    Though he slay me, yet will I trust him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him. He also shall be my salvation: for a hypocrite shall not come before him.
 
No way Friends! No way a hypocrite going to come before our God! Powerful words of faith people, from the father of patience; good ole Job. We can always depend on him to stand strong. ‘Though he slay me, yet will I trust him.’ Oh friends, 2009 is now underway, and remember we promised ourselves to do a better job for Jesus this year than those past. Now, though it’s a noble resolution, we can’t do it without Christ in our corner, without the faith and the resolve necessary to overcome the certain difficulties we’ll face. We’ve got to begin like Job, and raise our level of faith to unquenchable, unbeatable, sustainable heights. ‘For we walk by faith, not by sight.’ (2 Cor.5:7) We must raise our assurance to the level where we’re really living by faith, not by sight; have such optimism and hope in our hearts to truthfully declare, that even if it seems that God has turned against us, we’ll still trust and believe in Him, and also defend our ways. But we can only do that if our ways tend greatly to obedience, righteousness and truth, else we’ll be able to make no viable arguments. Job stonily upheld his truthfulness to his friends. ‘God forbid that I should justify you: till I die I will not remove mine integrity from me. My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go; my heart shall not reproach me so long as I live.’ (Job 27:5-6) And in spite of his sudden, disastrous loss of health, wealth and family, Job promised, and stoically retained his integrity to the very end. Now that’s true faith Friends! The kind of hope, trust and belief it really takes to be successful in this crazy, wicked world. Other men of great faith also felt that way. Bruh David unequivocally declared; ‘Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.’ (Ps.23:4) Yes people, it’s that all consuming LOVE, reverence and trust we need to instil in our hearts, bodies, souls and minds. Without it, we’re just aimlessly blowing in the wind, unstable, double minded, of no real use. And Solomon, the sage of all time, remarked that, ‘The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.’ (Prov.14:32) That’s a fact Friends! True believers have hope, take refuge in death, are not afraid of it, because of our unassailable belief that in death, there’s life; physical death opens the pathway to spiritual life with Christ. And if we can store that truth, deep within our beings, then nothing the enemy can do will move, turn, or shake our trust in the Most High God Jehovah, the Creator of All, the One, True God. As Job also declares with faithful and righteous power; ‘He also shall be my salvation: for a hypocrite shall not come before him.’ What moving testimony Friends! The kind we should take to heart and resolve to make our own. When we are able to declare those strong sentiments on our behalf, then we know we’re on the right track. For as Job’s friend, Bildad asks; ‘Can the rush grow up without mire? Can the flag grow without water? Whilst it is yet in his greenness, and not cut down, it withereth before any other herb. So are the paths of all that forget God; and the hypocrite’s hope shall perish.’ (Job 8:11-13) That’s the truth people. The papyrus plants and reeds need marshy land to grow, but also wither before any other herb. That too shall be the lot, the miserable end of unbelievers and hypocrites. Bruh David attests to both statements. ‘Let them be as the grass upon the housetops, which withereth afore it groweth up.’ (Ps.129:6) ‘The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.’ (Ps.9:17) Yes my brethren, it certainly takes great faith and a fair amount of ‘sufferation’ to live the life Jesus desires of His followers. But as I keep reminding us, he never asks anything of anyone, without giving them the necessary tools, desire and wherewithal to accomplish the task. It only behooves us to rise up faithfully, ask for that help, believe we’ll receive it, then go out and see the powerful, amazing, testimony we can create when we walk in obedience to His will. So Friends, let’s be encouraged, assured and energized, turn to Him right now, and seriously begin the reversal of fortune we’ve promised ourselves this year. We can surely do it, if we try. Much Love!…mini faith…moves molehills…maxi faith…topples mountains…

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