Today’s Scrip-Biit 10 April 2010 Psalm 17:3‏

10 Apr 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Psalm 17:3     Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing: I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.

 

Ah Friends, where can you get a weather forecast of minus 1 Celsius with the possibility of wet flurries in the early morning, then the afternoon temperature rising to the mid teens?  Only in Canada, you say? That’s the forecast for this supposedly spring day. Yesterday was a bit chilly with some blustery winds, and the people complained. But when we were having spring and summer in February and March no one griped. As the man said, you can either pay me now or pay me later, but pay you will. That’s also the way our God works in some things; you get what you desire easily, then spend a lot of time paying for it. All of us have had that experience, only to end up wondering if the easily gotten thing was really worth the effort and pain. More often though it works the other way, possibly because not many of us are grateful for the things we acquire easily and either squander or ill-treat them. Consequently it developed that we suffer and pay the price before achieving our desires. That way we appreciate them much more. The problem with that approach though, is that when things get real hard and you can’t see any light at the end of the tunnel, you begin to think about giving up. But remember people, quitting and giving up are not to be found in the believer’s mind set or vocabulary. If it’s a God-given dream, then you already have what you need in you to do it, but you need to step up to the plate and give it your best shot. But the belly and backbone necessary for that is sadly lacking in too many believers today. We’ve gotten so soft and fearful with the easy life we now lead, that at the first signs of hardship, we immediately think of quitting. Friends, just consider what our situation would be like today if Jesus had said: ‘Father I can’t do this nuh. It’s too hard. Besides, why should I get beaten up, abused and crucified for a bunch of worthless sinners, who don’t really give two hoots about us eh?’ We’d still be looking at purgatory today, instead of salvation and the bright lights of heaven. But no, He sighed sadly, reluctantly banded His belly and jaw, then said; ‘Not my will, but thine be done.’ Oh Friends, that’s the attitude our God expects to hear from us as believers. Regardless of how hard or bleak the situation, He expects the followers of his Son to be like Him and bow to His will. Remember too, that it’s only by testing can we be proven ready for promotion and grow in maturity, to be more like Christ, which is the Father’s number one goal. And throughout the Good Book we find many stories about trials and testing of faith. Hear the psalmist in Psalm 66: ‘For thou, O God, hast proved (tested) us: thou hast tried (refined) us, as silver is tried. Thou broughtest us into the net; thou laidst affliction upon our loins. Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy (abundant) place.’ (Ps.66:10-12) Yes Friends, sometimes when God puts us through our paces, it might seem like harsh and unusual punishment, but it’s all for our good, because in the end, the Lord always brings out stronger and better equipped to do His will. Listen to how Zechariah puts it: ‘And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try (test) them as gold is tried (tested): they shall call on my name, and I will hear (answer) them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The Lord is my God.’ (Zech.13:9) Oh mih people, walking in God’s will is no easy walk, but if we persevere in faith when tested, then the end will be so much better than the beginning. Look at Job. Though he unfairly lost everything, and was sad and testy, yet he never blamed or cursed God for his misfortune, and in the end God gave him twice as much as he originally had. My Friends, that’s the Lord’s modus operandi. If we endure our testing, then He will reward us. Peter said it thus: ‘That the (genuine) trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing (revelation) of Jesus Christ.’ (1 Pet.1:7) Friends, that means God is in the process of refining our faith through those trials, and true faith will NEVER be destroyed by them. Please remember that our God is the consummate dealer in compassion and LOVE. Whatever He brings us to, if we faithfully abide in Him, then He will bring us through it successfully, sometimes without even a scratch or smelling of smoke like Daniel and his buddies, but always with improved faith and often with glory to His Holy Name. So though it’s not always easy, it’s always worthwhile. And if we truly desire to be a follower of Jesus, then we’ve just got to grin and bear it, band we belly and we jaw and psyche ourselves out by saying things like: ‘this too will pass; the Lord never gives you more than you can bear; He’ll never leave or forsake you.’ And they are all true. But we have to study His word, then set our hearts and minds to the task, just like we did with exams at school. You can’t pass if you don’t put in some work before hand. And remember how you celebrated when you passed? It’s the same way we should celebrate on passing God’s test. There’s joy in heaven when we pass those tests. And one sure way to do that my Friends, is by saying like Bruh David did: ‘I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.’ And furthermore, ‘I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep (restrain) my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.’ (Ps.39:1) If we did that Friends, then we’re already halfway home. Just remember that we’re partners with God, but we usually have to do our part first before He does His. So be strong and steadfast in our God and His promises and we’ll pass all our tests with flying colours. Much LOVE!…our earthly purpose… to LOVE our God…LIVE our Faith…SPREAD His Word…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 April 2010 Psalm 17:3‏

09 Apr 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Psalm 17:3     Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing: I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.
 
Ah Friends, the last couple days in my area, we’ve experienced mostly rainy, dreary, inclement weather. The sun hasn’t shown itself much at all, but that doesn’t mean it’s not there. It’s just like when we don’t see our God in certain situations, it doesn’t mean He’s not there, but more like He’s just not ready to show His hand. In this case I guess He’s probably testing us a bit, to see our reaction to the downside, after the wonderful sunshine and balmy temps we’ve had the last couple weeks. Yes my people, the Lord God is continually testing us, for one reason or another; whether it’s to see if we’re ready for promotion, or just to test the strength of our faith, to see if we can walk our talk. But like it or not, we’re always in test mode. With the Lord there’s no standing still. He expects us to keep improving, maturing, becoming more like His wonderful Son, Jesus, every day. That’s the terminal position He’s seeking; that all His children shall be wrought in the image, likeness, attitude and temperament of His number one Son. That’s why Bruh David could plead in Psalm 17, A prayer for protection against oppressors: ‘Hear the right (a just cause), O Lord, attend unto my cry; give ear unto my prayer, that goeth not out of feigned (deceitful) lips. Let my sentence (vindication) come forth from thy presence; let thine eyes behold the things that are equal (upright).’ (Ps.17:1-2) Oh Friends, I know that sometimes the testing seems rough and unnecessary. Then sometimes you don’t even know or understand why you’re being tested, because you haven’t asked for, or expecting anything. Those are possibly when we’re satisfied, or rather too satisfied with our lot, and we’re becoming too comfortable and complacent, so the Lord uses those tests to get us out of our safety zone, for we can only improve, mature and serve Him better when some risk is involved in our lives; when we’re right out there on the edge, so that we can prove all His promises and understand some more about the great, wonderful, magnificent and LOVING God that He truly is. Bruh David was certainly being tested when he wrote this psalm; his enemies were getting a little too close for comfort. And after crying out for the Lord’s attention in verses 1-2, he begins to plead his case; self-defence, Your honour. (smile) He opens up by telling the Lord; ‘thou hast proved mine heart.’ He has tested his heart. ‘Thou hast visited me in the night.’ He has searched his heart, soul, body and mind during his sleeping hours. ‘Thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing.’ The Lord’s examination of his conscience and spirit will find no evil within him. Why Friends? ‘For I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.’ Oh mih people, can we make those definitive statements that Bruh David’s making? I surely hope so, because as true believers and followers of Christ, that’s how the state of our liver should be; as clean and impeccable as possible. That brings us to the words and sentiments of another man who went through terrible testing, Job. Despite his undeserved and unwarranted misfortune, he was still strong and committed enough to the God of his fathers to unequivocally declare: ‘But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. My foot had held (fast to) his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed (treasured) the words of his mouth more than my necessary food (appointed portion).’ (Job 23:10-12) And all God’s people said, ‘Wow!’ Yes Friends, not very many of us can suffer such dramatic, heart-breaking, heart-rending loss and still cling to the righteousness and faith in Almighty God. But that’s when He’s able to separate the men from the boys, the sheep from the goats, those who truly believe and are willing to abide by His will come what may, and those who are just along for the ride. Mih breddren, lemme give us a li’l bit of chupid advice nuh, and this from hard experience: Don’t, I beg oonoo, don’t ever ask our God for anything of great magnitude unless you’re fully prepared and willing to endure the hard work, pain and suffering it will inevitably involve, because He will joyfully set it in motion, then watch you bear the test. Of course if you’re sincere, He’ll help you, but as He says in His Word: ‘For unto whomsoever much is given, of him much shall be required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.’ (Luke 12:48) Jesus’ words Friends, and it doesn’t take a brainy person to figure that out. Both with men and God, much is asked to whom much is given. So if you can’t handle the heat, yuh better stay out of the kitchen. (smile) Now that doesn’t mean if you haven’t asked for great things the Lord will shun you or anything of the sort. But please be careful of what you ask for, because we have this bad habit of asking for much more than we can handle. That’s usually the lust for worldly things working in us to our eventual pain and displeasure. Oh Friends, our God and His Holy Spirit are truly something else yes! As usual, they have me chuckling, because I’ve only written half of what I’d planned to, and already time and space are up. But I’m not complaining, for I’ve surrendered to them, and the paths, the directions that the Spirit leads me on and in, do bear good fruit. So we’ll continue this topic tomorrow, God willing of course. Till then, let’s stand strong and steadfast in the Lord. Like Bruh David, let’s try and ace all the tests our God gives us, so we can mature, become more like our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and thus glorify our Father in heaven. Much LOVE!…though He tests us often…He never leaves us to go it alone…He’s always right beside us…just waiting to lend a hand…if we stumble or fall…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 8 April 2010 Ecclesiastes 9:7‏

08 Apr 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Ecclesiastes 9:7     Go they way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.
 
Oh Friends, its a day for advice on the basic principles of living. We’ll begin with a quote by our much esteemed and dear departed Prime Minister, Pierre Elliot Trudeau, who reputedly said: ‘If we don’t solve our own problems, other people will.’ That’s a fact mih people, but along with it comes the sad part that most likely we won’t like how they solve them either. So it’s necessary for us to get up off our rear ends and do something constructive with our lives. And whether you liked Pierre Elliot or not, you have to admit that he had much manly parts, and wasn’t afraid to get on with the job, whether he was right or wrong. That brings us to another bit of advice, this time from Edward John Phelps, namely: ‘The man who makes no mistakes does not usually make anything.’ And isn’t that the gospel truth Friends? It’s only logical that if you don’t do anything, you won’t make any mistakes. And though we don’t like to make mistakes, or shouldn’t make too many, mistakes are there for us to learn from them. How do you think we have so many wonderful inventions eh? Most of them didn’t just come to life, to fruition on the first try, but after many unsuccessful attempts, and often by many people too. So let’s wake up Friends and realize, that to our detriment, the world is passing us by, if we’re not doing anything constructive and productive with our lives, primarily because we’re afraid to make mistakes. The only person who ever lived error free was Jesus, and He was very cognizant of the human frailty to err occasionally, (smile) but He never made a mountain out of what was essentially a molehill. Jesus always encouraged others to get up, continue, try again, even start over, but to not let a mistake make you so nervous and afraid that you’d just retreat into your safe cocoon and let it all die. Remember Friends, the number one rule in Christianity is NEVER GIVE UP! If you truly have Jesus in your life, then words like defeat, failure and giving up are not supposed to be in your vocabulary or your mindset. You might change, rest, stop for a breather, start over, but NEVER GIVE UP! And as usual, I have to chuckle at how the Spirit is leading me along this path. But since I’m obedient, I’m following. So now that we’ve got that part straight, let’s move on to the next. Remember Bruh Paul states: ‘For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.’ (2 Thess.3:10) Well the opposite also holds true my brethren. To Timothy he says: ‘The labourer is worthy of His reward.’ (1 Tim.5:18) He’s paraphrasing Jesus’ statement; ‘for the labourer is worthy of his hire (wages).’ (Luke 10:7) So if you work, and are productive, you are entitled to remuneration. Then, as the Preacher says: ‘Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.’ Yes Friends, our God is one of great substance, abundance and a good life. He expects us to be productive and enjoy the fruits of our labour, though obviously not in excess. The Preacher also said: ‘Then I commended mirth (joy), because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.’ (Eccl.8:15) So please people, let’s get rid of this ridiculous attitude that some of us hold, whereby, because we’re believers we shouldn’t enjoy life, but go around moaning and groaning, sour and dejected, as though we’re going through martyrdom. Oh mih breddren, Jesus went through martyrdom for us almost two thousand years ago. We’re not supposed to be still living like we’re in purgatory. When Jesus died, He washed away all our ugly sin with His precious blood, so that we could be born again, have a new and joyous life in right relationship with Him and the Father. It upsets me no end to see believers behaving so piously, like honey won’t melt in their mouths, especially when a lot of the time it’s pure hypocrisy. Yes, we’ve got to be humble, not prideful and arrogant, but it’s a proud humility, like Jesus, not dragging around like we’re unworthy, second class citizens. Oh mih people, please remember we’re more than conquerors! We’re first class citizens both of earth and heaven, so we’ve got to behave that way. When Jesus was on earth, He worked and enjoyed His life just like everyone else, even though He knew the physically inglorious, but for us spiritually glorious end He would eventually come to. And since we know that He’s now sitting at the Father’s right hand, advocating on our behalf, preparing a place for us, it’s imperative that we do our part down here; that’s live a good, decent, joyful, fruitful and productive life that glorifies Him, and makes others want to believe and accept Him as their Lord and personal Saviour too. In all our endeavours, the number one motive should be to further Jesus’ kingdom. Consequently, we’ll close with the best advice from the wisest man ever; Cousin Sol. That’s besides Jesus of course. Now after all Sol’s research and experience, he concludes: ‘There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God.’ (Eccl.2:24) Friends, our world is falling apart because some of us have become ungodly and evil, while others are fearful and won’t do anything to improve the situation, while some are simply lazy and complacent. It’s obvious then that if the minority, who are godly and willing to make a good difference, don’t take the bull by the horns and do something, then we’ll all end up drowning in the mire eventually. Therefore my people, I’m asking us to be numbered amongst those who are willing to make a difference. If each of us makes a difference in our own backyards, then life will surely improve, possibly slowly, but nonetheless improve it will. So let’s get up and do that nuh…in the name of Jesus. Much LOVE!…in the day of reckoning…when Jesus asks…what difference did you make…will your answer be positive…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 7 April 2010 2 Chronicles 7:15‏

07 Apr 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

2 Chronicles 7:15     Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place.
 
Oh Friends, the Easter season is winding down, but that doesn’t mean we have to wind down too. In fact, we should be rising up, feeling more energized after being reawakened and refreshed by the good news of Easter, when our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ defeated death, rose from the grave with a vengeance, a vengeance to eliminate all the evil that’s being done in the world. That’s also a part of our heritage Friends, one we should not take lightly and be ready for with our spiritual armour and one other important thing; prayer. A gentleman by the name of Hartley Coolidge reputedly said these words. ‘Be not afraid to pray, to pray is right. Pray if thou canst with hope, but even pray.’ Words of living truth my people! Prayer is exceedingly important in believers’ lives because it’s our communication with the Lord God Jehovah. We talk to Him, He listens and replies either in word or deed. And the more we talk to Him, the better for us, because then we’ll be even more wrapped up and secure in His bountiful LOVE, mercy and grace. Bruh Paul hit the nail on the head: ‘Pray without ceasing’ (1 Thess.5:17)  And also: ‘I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.’ (1 Tim. 2:8) That means praying constantly and everywhere in faith because prayer is our lifeline to the Father. If it’s broken then we die spiritually, like our physical body dies without oxygen. He set this in motion from the beginning of time. One of the most noted moments regarding prayer in the Good Book is the Lord’s covenant with Solomon re the magnificent temple Sol built. In dedicating it to the Lord, Sol prayed thus: ‘Have respect (regard) therefore to the prayer of thy servant, and to his supplication, O Lord my God, to hearken unto the cry and the prayer which thy servant prayeth before thee. That thine eyes may be open upon this house day and night, upon the place whereof thou hast said that thou wouldest put thy name there; to hearken unto the prayer which thy servant prayeth toward this place. Hearken therefore unto the supplications of thy servant, and of thy people Israel, which they shall make toward this place: hear thou from thy dwelling place, even from heaven; and when thou hearest, forgive.’ (2 Chron.6:19-21) And what was the Lord’s response? ‘Now when Solomon had made an end of praying, the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the Lord filled the house. And the priests could not enter into the house of the Lord, because the glory of the Lord had filled the Lord’s house. And when all the children of Israel saw how the fire came down, and the glory of the Lord upon the house, they bowed themselves with their faces to the ground upon the pavement, and worshipped, and praised the Lord, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.’ (2 Chron.7:1-3) Ah Friends, talk about communication! Hn! You couldn’t ask for better than that. And in a vision, the Lord made a covenant with Sol. ‘I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to myself for a house of sacrifice. If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.’ (2 Chron.7:12-14) Yuh hear that mih people? If we humble ourselves and pray, seek His face and turn from our evil ways, then He will hear us, forgive our sin and heal our land. Oh Friends, our God couldn’t be more explicit than that! And though the promise was originally given to Sol long ago, it still holds true today, for all God’s promises hold true until they’re no longer necessary. For example He talks about offering sacrifices in His house. That was all well and good until the sacrifice of all sacrifices, Jesus, came and offered Himself once and for all time. Now we no longer need to offer any sacrifices, but my people we still need to pray, to maintain communication with the Most High. It’s still necessary for all those who call on the name of Jesus in repentance and faith. As the scholars declare, the verses we’re looking at ‘stand as a high expression of God’s LOVING readiness to hear the prayers of a repentant people.’ And my people, I sincerely believe that this current time in our world, full of evil, violence and hatred is one in which we desperately need prayer, because our world is falling apart right before our very eyes, and we are also falling away from Almighty God. The Lord agreed that all could come and pray, make obeisance to Him at the temple, where he would listen and answer. ‘Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent (attentive) unto the prayer that is made in this place. for now have I chosen and sanctified (set apart) this house, that my name may be there for ever and mine eyes (My attention) and mine heart (My concern) shall be there perpetually.’ (2 Chron.7:15-16) It’s certainly strange though Friends, that in Sol’s time there was only one temple where everybody came to pray, but now we have numerous places of worship where only a comparative handful go to pray. Why is that eh? The Lord no longer meets our needs because our intentions are now evil and our spirits lust for the worldly things of men. When life was good, we conveniently forgot who made it so; the Lord through His grace and mercy, not our own power. Friends, the Israelites did the same thing, but when life got rough, they always woke up and remembered who was the real Boss. Oh my people, it’s time for us to do the same thing. We’ve trusted in the efforts and knowledge of man, and look where it’s gotten us; a world full of turmoil and confusion. Will we be foolish and continue down this road of futility that only leads to death and destruction? Or are we going to smarten up, and turn back to the Lord; give up our wicked ways, humble ourselves in prayer, and plead for forgiveness, that he might heal us and our land? My people, that’s the only sensible thing to do. Remember His promise: ‘Mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place.’ So I implore us to turn to the Lord in prayer and repentance. It’s the only way our lives will improve and stay constant. Much LOVE!…the lines to heaven are always open…for prayer…please use them often…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 6 April 2010 John 20:27‏

06 Apr 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

John 20:27     Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.
 
Oh Friends, it’s Easter Tuesday; that means goat races and plenty partying down by Buccoo Reef in sweet Tobago! At least that’s how it used to be in my time. And I can only chuckle at my last visit to that august occasion…the little I can remember. Anyway, here’s a poem from a Realtor’s newsletter. I read it because he adds all sorts of interesting stuff. Of the four pages only the last one has anything to do with real estate. The others talk about things like avoiding Blackberry thumb; stepping back from conflict; exercising your brain; sharing too much info on the numerous types of media now available, plus this poem, ‘The Legend of the Dogwood,’ whose author is unknown. It’s beautiful and quite appropriate for the season. ‘In Jesus’ time, the dogwood grew, To a stately size and a lovely hue. ‘Twas strong and firm its branches interwoven, For the cross of Christ its timbers were chosen. Seeing the distress at this use of its wood, Christ made a promise which still holds good: "Never again shall the dogwood grow, Large enough to be used so. Slender and twisted it shall be, With blossoms like the cross for all to see. As blood stains the petals marked in brown. The blossom’s center wears a thorny crown. All who see it will remember me, Crucified on a cross from the dogwood tree. Cherished and protected, this tree shall be, A reminder to all of My agony." Wow! It sure is touching eh Friends? Now I need to take a break here to find a suitable Bit. (smile) Not my fault. That’s just how the Spirit leads me at times. Okay Friends, about ten minutes later, I’ve been led to this one. It deals with the lack of faith of one disciple, Thomas, whom we know as Doubting Thomas. And we also know that Jesus first appeared to Mary Magdalene in the garden, early on the resurrection morning, then later that same day, He hooked up with two believers on their way from Jerusalem to Emmaus, and playing foolish to catch wise, He picked their brains to find out what was happening amongst His followers. When they intimated that there was dissension and disbelief in the camp, Jesus blasted them: ‘O fools and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Ought not Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into his glory? And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.’ (Luke 24:25-27) But they never clued in from His chiding and invited Him to stay with them when they came to Emmaus. ‘And it came to pass as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.’ (Luke 24:30-31) Such was their consternation that they went right back to Jerusalem where the other believers were gathered behind locked doors, still fearful, and shared their story. And while all of this was going on, who appeared, as usual with perfect timing? None but our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, uttering those famous words: ‘Peace be unto you.’ (John 20:19) However, fortunately or not, ‘Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.’ (John 20:24) And when the others told him what had happened, he refused to believe. ‘Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.’ (John 20:25) Ah mih people, after being with Jesus for so long, poor Thomas still couldn’t comprehend what it was all about. But we can’t blame him too much, for surely that was all part of the Lord’s master plan to prove something. Just like Judas betrayed Jesus, another of His followers refused to believe. And since there’s always method to the Lord’s madness, it’s no surprise what took place eight days later. This time, all the disciples, including Thomas were together behind closed doors and Jesus appeared. Obviously no one had told Him of Thomas’ disbelief, so isn’t it remarkable that after His usual greeting, ‘Peace be unto you,’ He immediately confronts Thomas. ‘Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.’  Oh Friends, are we like Thomas? Do we need to see and touch everything before we believe? Aren’t there any people in our lives whom we trust enough to believe whatever they tell us? Or are we like those disciples, as Mark claims: ‘Afterwards he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided (rebuked) them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.’ (Mark 16:14) Several people had seen and spoken to the risen Christ, yet many still believed not. Now none of the gospels say whether Thomas actually reached out and checked Jesus for the wound prints, but he then proclaimed to Him; ‘My Lord and my God.’ (John 20:28) Oh mih people, if we always have to see and feel before we believe, then we’re in for a real rough ride as followers of Jesus, for He deals exclusively in hope, faith, trust and total surrender of our lives to Him and His ideals. Here’s His reply to Thomas. ‘Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.’ (John 20:29) Friends, Jesus is talking about people like us, who never saw Him risen, yet still believe. That’s the kind of followers He’s seeking, and the kind I’m asking us to be, who don’t need to see or touch everything to believe. I know we’ve been taught seeing is believing and touching is the naked truth, but that’s only for worldly matters. But where the spiritual business of Jesus is concerned, we need to see and believe through the eyes of faith. That’s what Christianity is all about: faith, hope, trust and total surrender to a God we can’t see with the naked eye, but whom we can certainly feel in our hearts and souls. As Bruh Paul so eloquently puts it: ‘Now faith is the substance (realization) of things hoped for, the evidence (conviction) of things not seen.’ (Heb.11:1) We have to believe what we hope for before we actually see it. And so it is my people with things like forgiveness, grace, mercy, salvation and eternal life. If we don’t first believe them, then we’ll never see or experience them. That faith is the power of our Lord Jesus Christ coming to the fore in our lives, making us exceptional believers and steadfast followers. Oh Friends, I can’t ever say often enough how important unconditional faith and trust in our Saviour is to our eternal well being. Please consider, believe and accept Him TODAY. Much LOVE!…only believe…that’s all we need to do…only believe…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 5 April 2010 Psalm 47:7‏

05 Apr 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Psalm 47:7     For God is the King of all the earth: sing praises with understanding.

 

Oh Friends, it’s Easter Monday; a holiday for some lucky ones, but a normal day of labouring for others. That means we’ve got to remind you to dress in your full suit of spiritual armour before you go out and face the enemy in this new work week. I also hope that you did not party too heartily this Easter weekend and you’re now under the weather, because that’s when you’re most susceptible to the evil wiles and guile of Beelzebub. But yuh know something mih people, writing this Bit has certainly been an eye opener as well as an adventure and a great education. I’ve experienced and learned so much in the last three years that I’m amazed. Take today, I wrote the first part without a Bit in mind, but I’ve matured enough in my faith to be sure that a suitable one will be forthcoming. Then when I began searching for something, I ended up in Lamentations. But after a few minutes I said, no, today’s not a day for lamenting. It’s Easter Monday, a day for rejoicing and celebrating because our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ only rose from the grave yesterday, having thoroughly defeated death; squarely put the boots to it. We need something with some joy, thanksgiving and praise for this special occasion. And where can one find the best bits of scripture under that heading? In the Psalms! So I began from Psalm 1, seeking something appropriate that I’ve never used. Lo and behold, I was finally guided to Psalm 47, titled, ‘God is the King of the earth.’ And so He is my brethren. The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, is the Creator and Ruler of the universe and nothing happens therein without His permission. That’s why the psalmist joyfully proclaimed: ‘O Clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph. For the Lord most high is terrible (awesome); he is a great King over all the earth.’ (Ps.47:1-2) The prophet Zechariah totally agreed. ‘And the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord, and his name one.’ (Zech.14:9) So was it also manifested in John’s vision. ‘And the seventh angel sounded (blew his trumpet); and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.’ (Rev.11:15) Yes my people, it’s an undeniable, unassailable fact that the universe and all therein belongs to the Lord our God. And how do we behave before earthly kings? We show them honour and respect, bow before them in reverence and humility. Thus it is only fitting that we do the same, and even more, when in the presence of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, who is indeed most worthy to receive such adoration, unlike many earthly monarchs. All those who glory in the Lord ought to exhibit wisdom and follow the psalmist’s advice: ‘sing ye praises with understanding.’ That means sensible, heartfelt, worthwhile stuff that will glorify our God, not mere wishy washy mouthings just for the sake of doing it. Here’s how Bruh Paul put it. ‘What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.’ (1 Cor.14:15) Though he was referring particularly to speaking in a tongue or language your listeners can understand, it fits well with our general principle, for what’s the purpose of singing, speaking or praying, sense or nonsense, in a language your listeners can’t comprehend? None whatsoever, especially when our stated aim is to edify and enlighten our listeners, so that they too can believe and find the peace, LOVE and joy that we’ve found in the risen Lord Jesus. In light of all that Friends, let’s all ‘Make a joyful noise unto God…Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious…O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his praise to be heard…Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me.’ (Ps.66:1-2,8,20) And my people, as long as we continue praising, worshipping and glorifying our God with understanding and right hearts, He will NEVER depart from us. But remember, the onus is on us to keep seeking, LOVING, worshipping and glorifying Him. Have a blessed day, and don’t forget to ‘Sing praises to God, sing praises: sing praises unto our King, sing praises.’ (Ps.47:6) Much LOVE!…who is most worthy of our praises…the Most High God Jehovah…Infinitely Everything…Yahweh…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 4 April 2010 1 Corinthians 15:54‏

04 Apr 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

HAPPY  EASTER.

1 Corinthians 15:54    …Death is swallowed up in victory.

 Oh Friends, the BIG DAY is finally here! It’s Easter Sunday morning! Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Glory Hallelujah! The seed that was planted three days ago, with the Lord’s excellent green thumb, has defiantly sprouted, causing us to exult, as Bruh Paul did when he paraphrased Hosea 13:14: ‘O Death, where is thy sting? O Grave, where is thy victory?’ (1 Cor.15:55)  Yes Friends, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ defeated death and the grave when He rose victoriously from the dead that Sunday morning so long ago. For that we should gratefully thank and praise Him. ‘Oh Jesus, we know how difficult your passion was, how excruciating the pain, both physical and emotional, especially when it seemed that the Father had forsaken you. But despite it all, you persevered; you bore the tremendous weight of our sins on your brave shoulders, allowing your precious blood to be shed as a sacrifice for us unworthy sinners. Then three days later, on an ordinary day like today, you made further history, by rising from the battle with death victorious for ever more. With that victory, you gave us new life, a second chance, ushered in a new period; one of grace, salvation and eternal life for those who believe in and trust in you. And even now, you’re still advocating with the Father on our behalf. We can never repay your selfless deeds, neither are there any words in our limited vocabulary to really express our true gratitude. So we’ll just say a simple thanks, knowing that you’ll understand. Thank you, Lord Jesus! We praise and adore you, and will valiantly try to be good and faithful followers of your Holy Word. In all that we do, we’ll endeavour to glorify you and further your kingdom. That’s the best way we can show our true appreciation. We humbly ask that you guide us with your Holy Spirit, so that we can achieve those worthwhile ends. We pray this in your Name. Amen.’ My people, though Christmas is celebrated with more pomp and ceremony, Easter is truly the most important time in the annals of the Christian faith, for it’s then that the faith truly was born. Jesus’ birth was important, but without His sacrificial death, resurrection and ascension to the Father’s right hand, there’d be no Christianity as we know it. There’d have been no grace, salvation, forgiveness or eternal life. We’d all still be worthless sinners living under the shadow of death and eternal damnation, forever separated from the just, righteous and LOVING God who created us. But once Jesus took our weighty sins and washed them clean with His precious blood on that barren, windswept hill called Calvary, then everything changed…for the better. It was like the death knell for dreary, back breaking winter. A heavy load was lifted off our souls, we were no longer burdened with sin. And when He rose victoriously…Oh mih people, it was like a beautiful spring morning; fresh and clean, with the sun rising majestically over the horizon, birds whistling and frolicking and a cool breeze titillating the new leaves of the trees. My Friends, Jesus’ resurrection breathed a spring like atmosphere into our souls and lives. It was a completely different season; new, innovative, assertive, enervative and energizing. A season that like spring, held fresh promise of greater things to come. And they certainly did, as we’re celebrating almost two thousand years later. Oh Friends our God is certainly a good God, because earlier on I wondered what I was going to write about on such a special occasion. I didn’t want to write about the same old particulars; how Mary Magdalene went to the tomb early the Sunday morning and saw the stone rolled back, then ran and told the disciples. Of how John and Peter went and found the tomb empty, then just went back home, while Mary hung around crying. Then Jesus appeared to her first, asking: ’Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou?’ (John 20:15) And she, not recognizing Him, thinking he was a gardener, pleaded for news of Jesus’ whereabouts. And only when He called her name ‘Mary,’ she realized it was Jesus, proving His claim: ‘and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.’ (John 10:4)  But thankfully, and with perfect timing, the Spirit led me on a different path; a broader one, more intent on showing what Easter meant to our faith in the greater scheme of things. And Christ’s resurrection was surely a victory over death: ‘Death swallowed up in victory,’ as Bruh Paul paraphrased Isaiah. I think it’s only fitting that we quote the specific passage from Isaiah, because it’s a perfect prophecy. ‘He will swallow up death in victory (forever); and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it. And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.’ (Isa.25:8-9)  And isn’t that the gospel truth my people? We have waited, and today we are glad and rejoicing in His salvation. Praise His Most Holy and Righteous Name! Have a blessed Easter my Friends. And please, don’t ever forget, or fail to deeply appreciate what Jesus so unselfishly did for us. Much LOVE!…let’s go home singing…Oh happy day…when Jesus washed…when He washed…all my sins away…Oh happy day indeed…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 3 April 2010 Matthew 27:63‏

03 Apr 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Matthew 27:63     Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.

 

Oh Friends, Good Friday has passed, the worst is over now. The seed has been planted and harvest time will soon arrive. Now, Robert Frost allegedly said: ‘The best way out is always through.’ That’s no lie. And it’s exactly what Jesus did; He went through His passion and came out victorious on the other side. He tilled the soil with His ministry, laying the groundwork, then sowed the seed with His death. His burial is the time of germination; waiting for the seed to spring roots and burst forth into the bright sunlight. That’s the time we’re in now Friends; a period of expectancy, waiting for that new bloom to shoot up, then produce harvest. And harvest time will come Friends, exceeding abundantly, we just need to have a little patience. And isn’t it interesting how the Father had His burial all set up and arranged. This rich man, Joseph of Arimathea, a counsellor, but also a believer, went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus, took Him down from the disgusting cross, wrapped Him in a clean linen cloth or shroud, the normal Jewish burial garment and very conveniently laid Him in a new tomb that he’d built for himself, then rolled a huge stone across the entrance. ‘And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over (opposite) the sepulchre.’ (Mat.27:61) Yes Friends, all  the macho men who had promised to die with Him, had all run away, but the women stoically hung around to know what became of His body, and hopefully prevent any further abuse. Isn’t it also interesting that though the Jewish leaders claimed not to believe that Jesus was the Messiah, yet they remembered His words, and nonetheless tried to cover all bases by going to Pilate the day after the crucifixion and ‘Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said,  while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again. Command therefore that the sepulchre (tomb) be made sure (secure) until the third day, lest his disciples come by night and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so that the last error (deception) shall be worse than the first.’ (Mat.27:63-64) I have to laugh, because even in death, Jesus still had the Jewish elite worried and jumping through hoops. Even after cruelly and unjustly killing Him, they weren’t satisfied, and were fearful that His disciples might do some skulduggery, steal Him away, then claim He was risen as He predicted. Jesus never hid His resurrection. He proclaimed it on more than one occasion, especially to His disciples. Let’s check out a couple. After telling Peter that he was the rock on which He’d build His church, the Good Book claims: ‘From that time forth began Jesus to show unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.’ (Mat.16:21) That’s when Peter took Him aside and rebuked Him, claiming that would never happen, and Jesus in turn rebuked Peter, telling him: ‘Get thee behind me Satan: thou art an offense unto me: for thou savourest not (are not mindful of) the things of God, but those that be of men.’ (Mat.16:23) Peter was no different to many of us mih people. And when the disciples could not heal a mentally unstable man, Jesus declared it was because of their unbelief and lectured them about having faith even as a grain of mustard seed. Then said to them: ‘The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men: And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again. And they were exceeding sorry.’ (Mat.17:22-23) Even two of the false witnesses the council dredged up tried to use his allusions to the resurrection against Him. ‘This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.’ (Mat.26:61) But in their ignorance they didn’t know that He was referring to the temple of His own body. So His resurrection was fairly common knowledge and the rulers decided to be safe rather than sorry. And in answer to their request: ‘Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch (guard): go your way, make it as sure (secure) as ye can. So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.’ (Mat.27:65-66) Ah Friends, unbelief is a helluva thing yes! It keeps you jittery and uncertain, and leads you to look for deceit and wrong doing where there is none, and to expect the worst when the best is possible. But I guess the Jewish rulers couldn’t do otherwise since the Father had hardened their hearts, like He did Pharaoh’s, so that His Name could be glorified and His kingdom furthered. Let’s be thankful that we live in supposedly more enlightened times, and don’t have to face such terrible persecution for believing in Jesus and all that he stands for: LOVE, Forgiveness, Redemption, Mercy, Grace, Reconciliation, etc. etc. I’d be foolish not to totally surrender my life, bursting with faith and trust to someone who’s so kind, LOVING, gentle, generous and merciful. Oh Friends, I don’t know how else to say this, but Jesus is just the GREATEST, and I’d advise us all to grab hold of His coat tail and hang on for dear life, because without Him, we’ll be lost in purgatory for ever. Much LOVE!…who else sacrificed their innocent life for us…nobody but Jesus…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 2 April 2010 Matthew 27:25‏

02 Apr 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Matthew 27:25     Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.
 
GOOD FRIDAY.

Oh Friends, it’s Good Friday; the most awful day, but also the most blessed in the life of the Christian Church, for Christ died a cruel, inhumane, unjust death on the cross so that our sins could be washed away. He was the only one that could do it, therefore, let’s praise and thank Him for sacrificing His innocent life for us unworthy sinners. ‘Oh Jesus, although we were not worthy, being exceedingly sinful, you still gave your life for us on that rugged cross, bore all our sins, shed your precious blood as a sacrificial lamb, so that we could return to a right relationship with the Father. For this we are eternally grateful and will always praise Your name. We will also try to walk as You walked while here on earth. We ask that you stand always beside us as we journey along life’s rough and rocky road, until we come to meet you at the end. We pray this in Your Holy Name. Amen.’ Oh my people, can you imagine the agony and true ‘sufferation’ that Jesus went through to save our worthless, sinful souls? I doubt it. I doubt that any of us can really comprehend the scourging, spitting, beating, taunting, mocking, jeering, the crown of thorns on His head, the poking and prodding, the spear to his side. And we won’t even consider the actual crucifixion for that’s too horrific for words. But that’s only the physical aspect. What about the emotional damage that such a belittling process can cause? What thorough humiliation. Mankind at their cruel best, which I doubt many of us have actually witnessed. And I don’t think we want to either. But it just goes to show what fear, anger and jealousy can do to a human being. We’re talking about the Jewish rulers who tried from the very beginning to get rid of Him because He was exposing them as frauds and hypocrites and lessening their hold over the people. Finally, after about three years they got their evil hands on Him. But Friends, little did they know that Jesus was here for a specific purpose and that their wicked intentions were an integral part of it. ”But for this cause came I unto this hour.’ (John 12:27) They were so blinded by pride, jealousy and a sense of their own importance, they never even considered the power of Jesus’ miracles, that possibly He could miraculously escape their evil clutches if He really wanted to. The same night they arrested Him, Peter cut off the ear of a servant and Jesus healed it with a simple touch. Wouldn’t that make a sensible person stop and think, especially if he knew that his actions were false and unjust? Obviously the Jewish leaders didn’t consider that possibility, their sole purpose was to put Him to death, and they would stop at nothing to protect their turf. They never realized that they were only able to arrest Him because He allowed it. As He said to Peter after He smote the servant. ‘Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?’ (John 18:17) Matthew’s version is slightly different and more explicit. ”Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?’ (Mat.26:52-54) The players in the drama did not realize that it had been scripted thus from the beginning of time, and the show must go on regardless. Jesus trial was such a farce with no credible witnesses and Jesus’ silence, which He broke only when the high priest brayed at Him in frustration: ‘I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.’ (Mat.26:63-64) This so enraged the high priest that he tore his clothes and decided those words were blasphemous enough to be worthy of death. ‘Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted (beat ) him: and others smote him with the palms of their hands, Saying, Prophecy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?’ Mat.26:67-68) Oh Friends that was just the start of the cruel travesty perpetrated on Jesus. In the morning they took Him bound, before Pilate the governor and the same nonsense ensued; lying witnesses and Jesus’ silence which had Pilate marvelling. He knew they were railroading Jesus, and tried to extricate himself, especially when he got a message from his wife: ‘Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.’ (Mat.27:19) In between all of this Pilate sent Jesus to Herod, who sent Him back finding Him innocent. But the Jewish rulers were out for Jesus’ blood come hell or high water and convinced the crowd to call for the customary release of a murderer and insurrection leader, Barabbas instead of Jesus. And despite Pilate’s best efforts to show Jesus’ innocence, the crowd cried vociferously to crucify Him. Seeing the futility, Pilate ‘took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it.’ (Mat.27:24) Oh Friends, it doesn’t matter what Pilate thought, the crowd gave him no choice, they would have rioted had he released Jesus. ‘Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.’ Hn! Can you imagine a crowd so stirred up, one accustomed to blood sacrifices making such a disgusting statement, putting innocent blood on their children’s head? But they did. That’s what happens when people are brainwashed and follow like sheep. Why would any person in their right minds want innocent blood to not only be on their heads but also that of their children? And since then they’ve been trying to say that they did not kill Jesus. To a certain extent they are right, because as Jesus said: ‘Therefore doth my Father LOVE me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.’ (John 10:17-18) My people, I won’t go into all the cruel and unusual punishment that Jesus suffered once Pilate washed his hands because we all know the gruesome story and the gory details. Suffice it to say that it was an exceedingly rough row for Him to hoe. But He did it all for us, not once flinching or trying to run from it, just so that we could be set free from sin. That’s the most important thing. Now it’s time for us to honour and glorify Him, for His selfless, unconditional LOVE. All believers should now seriously consider the state of their souls, to ensure that they’ve received Him, accepted that He paid our sin debt in full and are paying proper homage to the GREATEST MAN that ever lived; our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. That’s all He asks of us. Much LOVE!…and despite the inhumane, unjust treatment…His final words were…Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do…

Today’s Scrip-Bit 1 April 2010 John 11:25‏

01 Apr 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

John 11:25     Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.
 
Oh Friends, it’s Holy Thursday, and coincidentally All Fool’s Day too. But this is no time to be playing jokes, for we’re on the eve of that most awful but fateful day in the Christian calendar; Good Friday. It was an exceedingly rough day for Jesus, but a blessing in disguise for us, when He bore the sins of the whole world on His human shoulders. For that we should be everlastingly grateful. Today though, we’ll continue looking at the claim Jesus made to Martha when He came to Bethany after Lazarus’ death. ‘I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.’ Ah Friends, those certainly are confident, powerful, moving, thought provoking words! Did Jesus prove them, was He able to live up to them? Oh yes! For sure! That’s why we’re still talking about Him two thousand years later. And what I like about Jesus is that He said the same things over and over, without any contradiction, meaning He was very sure of Himself and of His words. We’ve dealt with the first part of the Bit already, so let’s check out the other half: ‘he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.’ A major claim that mih people. But He’d said it before in talking to Nicodemus, one of the Jewish rulers. ‘For God so LOVED the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.’ (John 3:16-17)  Not only did Jesus say it, but John the Baptist also testified to it. ‘The Father LOVETH the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth (remains) on him.’ (John 3:35-36) Oh mih people, that’s crystal clear! You believe in the Son, you have everlasting life. You don’t believe in Him, then you don’t have everlasting life, but God’s anger is still focused on your sinful soul, for only if you believe, are your sins washed clean by the blood of the Lamb. So if you don’t believe, then you will suffer the price of sin, which is eternal death and damnation in the company of the evil Lucifer. I don’t know about you Friends, but I certainly don’t want to spend eternity with Lucifer. His promises might seem bright and beautiful in the light of day, but they’re basically false and empty, full of guile to entrap you. Meanwhile, Jesus promises; ‘though he were dead (may die), yet shall he live.’ Friends, the enemy has never, and can never promise anything so wonderful because He simply does not have the parts to do it. But Jesus can and did, because He’s the Son of Almighty God, Creator and Controller of the universe. Yes, the Father put all things in His hand, so He can say that though we die, as we all must do, yet if we believe in Him, we shall live on, spiritually that is. Now that’s a big deal Friends, for the flesh is only an outer casing for our earthly life, but remember man is first and foremost a spiritual being. So what happens to that spirit after the physical body dies eh? It must go somewhere. Now if you believe in Jesus, then you know it’ll go to heaven, by means of salvation and spend eternal life with Him. But if you don’t believe, then it will just hang with Lucifer, wandering aimlessly through eternity, suffering whatever misfortune he suffers. Bruh Paul testifies to this. ‘For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.’ (1 Cor.15:21-22) And all God’s people joyously shouted: ‘Glory Hallelujah! Praise the Holy Name of the Sacrificial Lamb that died to cleanse our sinful souls!’ Oh people, I’ve been holding back a part of Jesus’ speech to Martha purposely, because it is of the utmost importance. ‘And whosever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?’ (John 11:26) Friends, if Jesus came to each one of us right now and asked that question, what would our answer be? Contemplate it for a moment. Would we hesitate or simply refuse to answer, or say I don’t know? Or like Martha, we’d immediately pipe up: ‘Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.’ (John 11:27) Oh what powerful, potent, effective, dynamic faith mih breddren! It’s to that level of faith all believers should aspire, though, as we’ve said before, it’s not easy, and can only be attained through experience. That means through trials and tribulations with the Lord walking beside us, and carrying us when necessary. I know we sort of forgot Mary, who was at home grieving and moping, but there was absolutely nothing wrong with her faith either, for after Martha assured Jesus of her belief in Him, she went back to their house and secretly called Mary out, saying: ‘The Master is come, and calleth for thee. As soon as she heard that, she arose quickly, and came unto him.’ (John 11:28-29) Jesus had remained outside of town where Martha met Him. ‘Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.’ (John 11:32) Oh Friends, isn’t it amazing how the sisters said the same thing to Jesus on encountering Him? That’s because they truly believed that He was the Christ, the Messiah, the Son of Almighty God, who could do all things through His association with the Father. Friends, do we sincerely believe that? We had better, else our faith is untrue. But since it’s the Easter season, the very basis, the foundation on which our belief and faith is built, it’s an excellent time for all of us to sit and ponder what we truthfully believe in our hearts, souls and minds. Hopefully, by doing this, we’ll work out any kinks or problems, and our faith will be strengthened, renewed, and energized. Tomorrow is Good Friday, so let’s keep watch, like Jesus did in the Garden of Gethsemane the night before His cruel crucifixion. Let’s think on the agony, both emotional and physical, He endured that night, all because He LOVED us. Much LOVE!…let’s say like Jesus…not my will…but thine O Lord…
 

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