Today’s Scrip-Bit 30 April 2012 Psalm 146:5

30 Apr 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Psalm 146:5.     Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God.

Oh Friends, we’ve been mightily blessed to see the light of another glorious day on Planet Earth! Praise, the Lord, send joyful shouts up to heaven, thank Him for all His wonderful blessings and mercies! And some of you are looking askance at me, as though I’m crazy. No I’m not. I’m just happy in the Lord! Remember the joy of the Lord is our strength, (Neh.8:10) which means if we’re not joyful in the Lord, then we’ll be just a bunch of weaklings, unable to fight Lucifer. And it doesn’t matter either that it’s Monday and we’ve got to go and slave for Massa. That’s all part of God’s glorious plan for our lives, which we know will eventually turn out fine, because He’s promised it. (Rom.8:28) And for those of us who are still miserable and joyless, for whatever reason, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, which should put joy in our hearts, strength in our spirits and a smile on our faces, which in turn will have the enemy frustrated when we respond with LOVE and peace, rather than anger and resentment to their evil works. All together now: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Wow Friends, what a powerful anointing! Now let’s ride that Jesus high all the way to work and back, while thanking God for all the trials that come our way, with each one bringing us more like Jesus. Ah mih people, the ole fella’s on a roll this morning! That’s because I’m enthused and joyful, even though I’m being harassed by a cough and some asthma problems, for as our Bit so truthfully declares: ‘Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God.’ The God of Jacob has become my help, and I’ve placed all my hope and trust in Him. So why shouldn’t I be happy eh? If you’ve claimed the Bit as yours and you’re not happy, then something’s wrong somewhere, and you need to evaluate your situation again. Now don’t think you’re alone in that respect, because many Christians are sad, joyless people, who unfortunately feel that’s the way believers ought to behave. But that mindset just makes these words of Jesus useless and of no account. ‘These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.’ (John 15:11) And also: ‘These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.’ (John 16:33) Words to live and die by Friends! And please note, when we talk of joy here, it’s not necessarily being happy with our outward circumstances, but about an inner peace and contentment, knowing that our lives are in the faithful, trustworthy hands of Jesus. That therefore means our whole world could be crumbling around us, but we’ll still manage a smile and a kind word to someone else, putting our plight in the background. And coincidentally, there’s no better way to forget your problems than by helping someone else with theirs. Now enough of me, let’s listen to some scriptures that back up my contention and our Bit’s words. Psalm 125, with the superscription, God surrounds his people, is as good a place as any to begin. ‘They that trust in the Lord shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed (moved), but abideth for ever. As the mountains are round about (surround) Jerusalem, so the Lord is round about his people from henceforth even for ever.’ (Ps.125:1-2) What more can we ask eh mih breddren? Nothing really. It’s left up to us to accept His tender mercies and providence. And Isaiah, in his appeal to Israel to turn to the Lord for help, solemnly declares: ‘And therefore will the Lord wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the Lord is a God of judgement (justice): blessed are all they that wait for him.’ (Is.30:18) Oh my people, like Isaiah, I’m appealing to us, right now, to turn to the Lord God Jehovah for help, because our world is in a sorry state and only He can help us. Now hear God’s promise of deliverance to Ebed-melech through Jeremiah, in the face of Babylon’s attack. ‘But I will deliver thee in that day, saith the Lord: and thou shalt not be given into the hand of the men of whom thou art afraid. For I will surely deliver thee, and thou shalt not fall by the sword, but thy life shall be for a prey (as a prize) unto thee: because thou hast put thy trust in me, saith the Lord.’ (Jer.39:17-18) And finally Friends, listen to Bruh David’s simple but eloquent declaration: ‘O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. O fear the Lord, ye his saints: for there is no want (lack) to them that fear him.’ (Ps.34:8-9) Oh fellow believers, it’s my sincere hope that all we’ve read and said here today will light a fire in and under us; will create such enthusiasm, such passion for Christ in our souls that we’ll just go out into the evil, ungodly world and overrun the enemy with LOVE! I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen. Much LOVE mih people!… no contest is ever won without…fervour, enthusiasm and passion…and that’s what’s sadly lacking in today’s believers…

 

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Today’s Scrip-Bit 29 April 2012 Psalm 146:5

29 Apr 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Psalm 146:5.      Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God.

Ah Friends, it’s our weekly fellowship time again with other believers! And all God’s people said a loud and hearty ‘Amen!’ Now getting together with others to praise and worship our omnipotent Creator is a very important part of our Christian journey.  It’s a decree from our God that we set aside one day a week to spend time with Him as a holy family. And as all His other decrees, it should not be taken lightly since it brings all parts of the body of Christ’s church together to make a powerful whole. This is one of those times when the whole is indeed greater than the mere sum of the parts. Not to mention the fact that there’s power in numbers. And remember Jesus specifically said: ‘For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there I am in the midst of them.’ (Matt.18:20) So you can imagine the power of the Holy Spirit moving and working in a bigger congregation; the joy, praise, thanksgiving, faith, trust and LOVE that emanates from a crowd of Christians in true worship mode! Wow! No wonder Psalm 146, from which our Bit comes, is called, The blessedness of trusting God. And after the psalmist has opened by praising the Lord, and committing that praise for his lifetime, and also warning us not to put our trust in man whose breath, body and thoughts perish, he blesses us with our Bit: ‘Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God.’ Oh my people, that’s a wonderful bit of advice, as well as an undeniable fact! So why can’t others, especially those who so badly need some peace and joy in their lives discover that fact too eh? Maybe it’s because we who have found joy and happiness in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob aren’t doing a good enough job of passing on the message? Maybe we’re not living it out in our everyday lives, so that others can see how Christ affects us as we walk with Him? We obviously are doing something wrong, or simply not doing enough, because there are too many lost souls out there, who either never heard of Jesus, or did and refuse to embrace His glorious LOVE because of our inability or lack of showing a true sense of joy in living for Him. Yes mih people, there’s nobody to blame but us, if others don’t see the joy we claim to have, because we don’t show it. We can’t be selfish and just keep Jesus to ourselves. We have to share the good news with all the world as He requested, that’s our bounden duty.’ (Matt.28:19-20) Another problem is whether we truly believe the words of our Bit. Yuh know we say plenty stuff, but a lot of it is merely talk for talk sake, and it really doesn’t come from the depths of our soul. However Friends, the facts that our Bit state should be indelibly imprinted in our whole being, if we’re true believers and expect to enjoy the fruits of a relationship with Christ. That means we obviously have to do a better job of portraying real Christian living in our daily walk, as well as telling Christ’s story to more people, spreading the wonderful news of what He’s so selflessly and sacrificially done for us undeserving sinners.  Remember too Friends, that live examples work better than mere spoken words. And now that I’ve harangued and tongue lashed us (smile) for not doing enough to spread Jesus’ LOVE Revolution, let’s look at some scriptures that corroborate the gospel truth of our Bit. First off is a wise word of warning from the psalmist: ‘Kiss the Son (an act of homage and submission), lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.’ (Ps.2:12) Yes brethren, we need to be in tight with the Son, if we want to lie in pastures green with Him. Now hear Cousin Sol’s take on the matter. ‘He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.’ (Prov.16:20) And we’ll give Jeremiah the last word: ‘Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see (fear) when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful (anxious) in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.’ (Jer.17:7-8) That my Friends, is the total, unalterable, living truth of the Word of God, which doesn’t change or lie! Therefore, let’s take it to heart and then put it into action nuh, for the times they are a troubled. Our world is seriously hurting and in need of the peace, joy, calm and LOVE that only living with, in and for Jesus can bring. Nuff said mih breddren! More on this tomorrow if we see the blessed light of day. Much LOVE!…only by truly LOVING our God…LIVING our Faith…and SPREADING God’s Word…can believers positively influence non-believers…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 28 April 2012 Matthew 5:6

28 Apr 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Matthew 5:6.    Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

Oh Friends, our God is indeed a great God, but more importantly He’s also a kind and merciful Deity. Point in question; just now when I came to write the Bit I wasn’t feeling up to scratch, seems as though the flu wants to take hold of me, but with God’s help and some man made stuff, I’m fighting it. I therefore was having a hard time finding something I could get my head around, and after some futile search, frustration set in and I cried out to the Lord, asking why in my weakest moment He was letting me struggle to find a Bit? And would you know a couple minutes later, I was guided to our Bit. Praise the Lord! Ah Friends, I’ve learned, both from the testimony of others and from my own personal experience, that when you try your best to walk with the Lord, He will bless you. How else could I be writing these Bits everyday for over five years now eh? And it hasn’t always been easy, but He’s always seen me through. And here’s today’s Bit: ‘Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.’ It comes from Jesus’ famous Sermon on the Mount and addresses one of the many spiritual characteristics He expects to find in His followers. In fact, that’s what the Beatitudes are about; characteristics of Jesus that He wants us to reflect in our earthly journey, just like He did in His. Now what does it all mean? Let’s invoke some scholarly help here: ‘These future possessors of the earth are its presently installed rightful heirs, and even now they hunger and thirst after righteousness. They experience a deep desire for personal righteousness, which in itself is a proof of their spiritual rebirth. Those who are poor and empty in their own spiritual poverty recognize the depth of their need, and they hunger and thirst for that which only God can give them. They shall be filled refers to a complete satisfaction.’ To end their discourse, the scholars quote a piece of Psalm 107:9, God’s wonderful works to the children of men, but I’ll quote it in the full context. ‘Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness (LOVING-kindness), and for his wonderful works to the children of men! For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.’ (Ps.107:8-9) And that’s no lie Friends! Anytime we hunger and thirst for God, have no fear, He will fill us with whatever we need! As Mary said in the Magnificat, her wonderful song of praise: ‘He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent away empty.’ (Luke 1:53) Isaiah, in telling Israel that the rebellious will surely be punished, also commented: ‘Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, my servants shall eat, but ye shall be hungry: behold, my servants shall drink, but ye shall be thirsty: behold, my servants shall rejoice, but ye shall be ashamed. Behold, my servants shall sing for joy of heart, but ye shall cry for sorrow of heart, and shall howl (wail) for vexation of spirit (grief of spirit).’ (Is.65:13-14) And here’s the crowning glory people, also from Isaiah. ‘Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? And your labour for that which satisfieth not? Hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness (abundance). Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.’ (Is.55:1-3) The scholars also explain this nicely: ‘God’s free gift of salvation is offered to all who will receive it. Those who are spiritually hungry and thirsty may come to eat and drink without money (or freely). He promises an everlasting covenant to the Gentiles like the one He established with Israel. His invitation to all men is clearly stated by the appeal, Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, and call ye upon him while he is near.’ (Is.55:6) Oh my people, please don’t lose faith in our God! We won’t always agree with His doings, but neither does He often agree with ours, just remember who is the Master, and who is the servant. He is omnipotent, while we are mere grunts in comparison. His ways and understanding are also higher than ours, thus we must bow to His decrees. That doesn’t mean we can’t come to Him in confidence, with a true and trusting heart. And when we do, He will hear our plea and comfort us. Again, it might not be how or what we want, but it will always be in our best interest, for as He’s so faithfully promised: ‘that all things work together for good to those that LOVE God, to them who are called according to his purpose.’ (Rom.8:28) And that’s the gospel truth my brethren! It’s a very crucial scripture, and one that you must sincerely believe and act upon, if you want to be a successful believer, since a lot of unfortunate stuff happens to us, and only when we believe that everything will work out right in the end, can we handle our misfortune and disappointment. So please hang in there Friends, sincerely seek the Lord for whatever you lack, and He will fill you with whatever you need. He is faithful that promised! Much LOVE!…a successful believer…must first believe…then clothe that belief with the utmost faith and trust in Almighty God…

Today’s Sccrip-Bit 27 April 2012 Proverbs 20:19

27 Apr 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Proverbs 20:19.    He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.
 
Well Friends, that joyful harbinger of the weekend is here. It’s Friday once again! And all those who have the weekend off, emitted a tired but expectant shout: “Thank God is Friday yes! Ah don’t know if I could handle another day of this depressing, tiring work!’ But Friends, as the song I’m listening in the background is encouraging, let’s rejoice! Yes, rejoice, because Jesus is in our lives and that’s the BEST NEWS in all the world! It’s amusing though, how we die for Friday to come because we get a couple of days off, but intensely dislike Mondays, since we have to go back out to labour for the little pittance that most of us receive. I guess that’s only natural, but as always, to help us handle the situation, let’s chant our Friday Chant with great expectations. As one voice now: ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through another week of work! It hasn’t been easy, but with your generous help, I made it through. Now, please help me to get sufficient fun, fellowship, rest and relaxation in these two short days off, so that I can be renewed and refreshed in soul, body and mind, to go back out and do it all over again next week, furthering your glorious kingdom with each step I take. I pray this in Jesus name. Amen.’ Yeh mih breddren, that should put us in a more controlled and godly frame of mind. So now we can address our Bit without any of you throwing tantrums at my words, (smile) since some of you genuinely believe that some of the stuff you revel in is quite harmless. But our Bit begs to differ: ‘He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle (associate) not with him that flattereth with his lips.’ Oh my people, we know that to be very true, but refuse to believe it because we either engage in it ourselves or encourage others to do so. Yesterday we looked at a couple scriptures that dealt mainly with tale bearing, today we’ll look at some that deal mainly with the second half of our Bit: ‘therefore meddle (associate) not with him that flattereth with his lips.’ Now Friends, that’s excellent advice because some of us are quite prone to flattery; we so desire to hear nice and good things about ourselves that we make the cliché very true; flattery will get you any and everywhere. And there are plenty people out there quite willing to indulge us, so please don’t associate with that type, cause they will only take advantage of our weakness and lead us astray. Hear Bruh Paul’s warning to the Romans on the subject. ‘Now I beseech you, brethren, mark (note) them which cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good (smooth) words and fair (flattering) speeches deceive the hearts of the simple (innocent).’ (Rom.16:17-18) That’s gospel truth Friends! So please pay careful attention to it. Now listen to this other warning to the Colossians, re false teachings. ‘And this I say, lest any man should beguile (deceive) you with enticing (persuasive) words….As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him. Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you (plunder, or take you captive) through philosophy and vain (empty) deceit, after (according to) the tradition of men, after the rudiments (basic principles) of the world, and not after Christ.’ (Col.2:4,6-8) And if you don’t believe it happens, then here is an excellent example of it from Acts, in the days of the council of Jerusalem. ‘And certain men which came down from Judea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.’ (Acts.15:1) Now that’s totally false, but men were preaching that kind of falsehood back then, and plenty are still preaching all kinds of untrue stuff today. That’s why it’s so important that we be very careful with whom we associate and the tenor of their beliefs because once they get their hooks into us, they can very easily lead us astray. And here’s the final word from Peter, re false prophets and teachers: ‘But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily (secretly) shall bring in damnable (destructive) heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious (destructive) ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of (blasphemed). And through covetousness shall they with feigned (deceptive) words make merchandise of (exploit) you: whose judgement now of a long time lingereth not (has not been idle), and their damnation (destruction) slumbereth not.’ (2 Pet.2:1-3) And believe me, Friends, obnoxious false teachers and teachings are still with us today, possibly even with greater deception. So I implore us to delve deep into the Good Book ourselves, and get proper instruction from reputable people, so that we can know these false teachers and meddlers who go around intentionally misleading the brethren. I pray that we can all stand on the true Word of God, and not be misled. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Much LOVE!…Lucifer’s deceivers are so good… that it takes a true Jesus believer to spot them…   P.S. And as the rocking soca song in the background’s saying: ‘Thank God for Jesus, Thank God for Jesus, EVERYDAY. Thank God for Jesus, He is my Saviour, He is the Truth, He is the the Light, He is the Way…Thank God for Jesus…He is the truth, He is the Light, He is the Way.’ No doubt about that mih people! So let’s give Him the thanks He so rightly deserves! Much LOVE!
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 26 April 2012 Proverbs 20:19

26 Apr 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

 Proverbs 20:19.    He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.

Ah mih people, it’s another day in the life! A day that will hopefully bring lots of joy and gladness and little or no pain and sorrow. But it sure is reassuring to know that regardless of what comes our way in this calamitous world, today or any other day, that we have a strong and powerful Being in Jesus to back us up, console and protect us. And all God’s people gave a mighty shout of praise: ‘Oh thank you Jesus!’ Now Friends, here’s another instalment of ‘My Jesus is…Everything,’ from the book of the same name by Anne Graham Lotz. ‘MY JESUS: He had no predecessor, and He will have no successor. He is the Lion, and He is the Lamb. He is God, and He is Man. He is the seven-way King: He is the King of the Jews…that’s a racial King. He is the King of Israel…that’s a national King. He is the King of righteousness…that’s a moral King. He’s the King of the ages…that’s an eternal King. He is the King of heaven…that’s a universal King. He is the King of glory…that’s a celestial King. He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords! MY JESUS IS…EVERYTHING!’ Yes my brethren, we serve and worship the Highest Power in the universe, which should make us untouchable, but being fallen humans, we’re still gullible and liable to embrace evil words and people. Hear how our Bit puts it: ‘He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not (don’t associate) with him that flattereth with his lips.’ And my people, that’s the awful truth! There are too many people in our society, including believers, who make it a habit to go around spreading tales, false and true. Gossip mongering has become a fanatical pastime of our society. Just check out all the gossip papers, the tweets and facebooks and all the other places where we place personal information that can be easily obtained by anyone with a smattering of computer knowledge. Then we have the reality t.v programmes, the soap operas and the paparazzi who run around invading the lives of supposed celebrities. All of this has now become a multi-billion dollar business. Secrets are no longer safe. And why has it become so widespread? Because we, the ordinary folk, think these people live such glamorous lives and through them we get some sort of reflected joy, both wishing and imagining ourselves living the same glamorous lifestyle. But Friends, have you noticed that most of the stuff, both true and false that comes out about those people, and thrills us too, is mostly negative? I sure don’t want to behave like most of them, because they have no real class. Though they might have money, power and much earthly possessions, their standards are lower than lower, but unfortunately that’s the kind of people our society looks up to. And we encourage it by buying the rags, filled with heifer dust, and watching the foolish, insipid t.v shows. Tell me, in these soap operas and the latest trend, the reality shows, do you see anybody living decently or sensibly, in spite of their great wealth and power? No! It’s always fighting and backbiting! What then can you expect from our children when that’s all their young minds are inundated with? And don’t tell me if you constantly watch the nonsense it won’t seep into your souls! That’s a fool’s wisdom, for anything we concentrate on for a period of time, will have some effect on our minds, the way we think and live! And that’s certainly not the way Jesus sacrificed His holy, sinless life for us to live! Oh my brethren, from way back when, in Leviticus, God sternly warned the Israelites: ‘Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood (life) of thy neighbour: I am the Lord.’ (Lev.19:16) What part of that is so difficult to understand eh? But as usual, we have ignored the majority of the Lord’s edicts, and have made gossiping, tale bearing, etc. big business and given it a huge, legitimate place in our lives. I’m sure we don’t like others going around babbling our business. But if it’s someone else’s, we welcome it with great joy and words like: Oh god girl! Is that really true? Yuh really mean that so and so did so and so? Tell me more girl…tell me more! Ah can’t wait to hear the whole juicy story!’ But yuh know what Friends, when we encourage others to go around spreading gossip, be it true or not, we’re doing everybody, including ourselves, a great disservice, because those same people will go around spreading tales about us. And then we’ll get all hot and bothered, completely forgetting that we encouraged it in the first place. I’ll end with some earlier words of Cousin Sol, where he describes the situation thus: ‘A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.’ (Prov.11:13) Ah Friends, let’s ponder those words today and then search our minds and souls to see if and where we’re encouraging this negative type of behaviour; a behaviour that’s definitely contributing to the lawlessness and ungodliness of our world. We can’t continue like this Friends, the moral decay and depravity have already driven us to distraction, the next step down is destruction, either by our own efforts, or God’s!  More on this tomorrow, God willing. Till then, please walk safely and securely with Jesus. Much LOVE!…the most deadly sins don’t leap up on us…they creep up on us…

Today’s Scrip-Bit 25 April 2012 Hebrews 6:15

25 Apr 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hebrews 6:15.       And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.
 
Oh Friends, it’s a wonderful morning, with all those new mercies and blessings pouring down like rain from heaven on us! Do you feel them? I sure do! So much so that ‘I’ve got a joy deep down inside of me that makes me want to shout how good God is to me!’ Wow! That’s the way all believers ought to feel my people! Those words are the chorus of a reggae song I heard last night, and though I think I’ve shared it with you before, the feeling is so right that I felt compelled to share it again. Yuh know, we talk constantly about the joy of living in and for Christ, but not enough of His followers actually experience it and then show it to an evil, ungodly, unfriendly world. Too many of us Christians go about looking sad and miserable, as though we’ve lost our best friend, instead of being joyful that we’ve found our Best Friend, Jesus, who sacrificed His sinless life for us, and promised never to leave or forsake us. Remember His words to His disciples: Greater LOVE hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ (John 15:13) Well that’s what He did, and thus considers as friends, all who believe in Him. Consequently, the problems of the world should never be too big to hide, to conceal, or destroy the well-being and wonderful future that faithfully living for Jesus provides. We know it’s not an easy path to tread; one filled with numerous potholes and dangers lurking around every bend. But as our Bit says: ‘And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.’ Oh my brethren, that’s a guarantee which applies to all staunch believers, from Father Abraham, through Jesus, right up to us today and those to come! If we stand steadfast, strong and true, trusting and believing in Jesus and His Word, then regardless of what calamity we encounter, we will be well rewarded in the end. We know that no great thing can be accomplished without some failure and heartache, but if one perseveres, instead of quickly giving up, then eventually our efforts usually meet with success. The same goes for the Christian life my Friends. Living for Jesus is a great and worthwhile endeavour, but it also means there will be bumps of various sizes along the way. But with Jesus’ help, we can surely overcome them. Hear this apt scripture of Bruh Paul to the Thessalonians, re encouragement in persecution. ‘We are bound to thank God always for you brethren, as it is meet (fitting), because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity (LOVE) of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; so that we ourselves glory in (boast of) you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure; Which is a manifest token (plain evidence) of the righteous judgement of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense (repay with) tribulation to them that trouble you.’ (2 Thess.1:3-6) Yes Friends, that’s the kind of witness believers must be prepared to undergo for Christ’s sake. Remember what He suffered on our behalf, and also that we can never repay Him. In fact He doesn’t desire repayment, just a little thanks and gratitude, shown by our behaviour towards Him and each other. Now listen to this scripture of Bruh Paul to the Colossians, where he’s talking about prayer for spiritual wisdom. ‘For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness. Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet (qualified us to) be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in (the) light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated (transferred) us into the kingdom of his dear Son (the Son of His LOVE):’ (Col.1:9-13) Oh my people, are we sincerely working towards and praying for those godly attributes? We surely should, because it’s noted again where believers ought to suffer trials with patience and joy. Jesus did it, and though we’re not in His class, we can all try to attain to a high standard in that respect. And we’ll close off this series of Bits on patience and all its variants with some thoughtful and encouraging words from James, re patience in affliction. ‘Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold the husbandman (farmer) waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish (establish) your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh (has come near)….Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy (blessed) which endure. Ye have heard of the patience (perseverance) of Job, and have seen the end of (intended by) the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful (compassionate), and of tender mercy.’ (James 5:7-8,10-11) Yes Friends, let’s get out into this wicked, ungodly world and show them that Jesus’ people are made of sterner stuff than them, and that we can handle anything they throw at us, because we have our Lord, Saviour, Master and glorious Advocate, Jesus, working for and protecting us! Much LOVE!…if you’re not in sync with Jesus…then you’re easy pickings for Lucifer…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 24 April 2012 Hebrews 6:15

24 Apr 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

 Hebrews 6:15.     And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.

Ah Friends, many of you experienced the strange weather patterns of yesterday and today, where the Eastern half of North America’s snow belt had vicious snow and rain storms with powerful winds, while the Western half that’s usually colder, basked in enviable, record breaking summer weather. Luckily my area only got rain and strong winds, though places not far to the north of me saw several inches of snow hit the turf. And yet we dispute the stark evidence of changed, screwed up, unusual weather patterns. It’s not even so much a matter of whom or what’s causing it, but a simple admission that it’s changing. When we have spring in February, summer in March and winter in late April, something’s certainly changed. I guess those who have vested interest in the status quo are refusing to see the forest for the trees, because once they admit that significant changes are indeed happening, they’ll be forced to consider why, which could cost them serious coin. Anyway Friends, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to recognize that weather patterns are changing, for it’s doing so all over the world, and for a variety of reasons, emanating from both God and man; where we’re abusing the environment, and God’s laying some licks on us for our gross disobedience. And though as individuals, we can’t do much to sway the powers that be, my fellow believers, as a cohesive and vocal group we can certainly make our voices heard and our votes count. Our world is in such a mess, in all aspects, and getting worse every day, that it will take a lot of collective effort to straighten it out. And you know that it’s us, Jesus’ people, who will have to do it, since Lucifer and his evil cohorts like it the way it is; evil, ungodly and destructive. Sadly though, it’s our children and their offspring who will suffer the most if things don’t change for the better soon. Friends, we have to get serious and work tirelessly in our own little sphere to bring God and some sense of a respectable society back into fashion. They say fashion changes over time, well it’s time the fashion of ungodliness and evil enveloping our world be changed back to godliness and goodness. And it won’t be easy my people. But you know that working in tandem with God, all things are possible, so it’s up to us to get started, because God is always there, waiting for us to sincerely ask for His help. The main question though is, are we ready, willing and able to take up our crosses and follow Jesus? Are we ready to live our Bit? ‘And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.’ Yes Friends, are we willing to patiently suffer the host of frustrations and indignities possible in such a fight, as Jesus did? Now riddle I this, riddle I that, this scripture: ‘For this is thankworthy (commendable), if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if when ye be buffeted (beaten) for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with (commendable before) God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.’ (1 Pet.2:19-21) Ah mih Christian people, are we willing to suffer when we’ve done right, like Jesus did? That’s the million- dollar question we must ask ourselves. And the answer needs to be a resounding ‘YES,’ if we’re to successfully turn things around! Listen to this passage from James re faith and humility. ‘My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations (various trials); Knowing this, that the trying (testing) of your faith worketh (produces) patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire (complete), wanting (lacking) nothing.’ (James 1:2-4) Having read that, can we consider our trials and tribulations, our testing, as joyful? It’s hard, but we can, with strong and steadfast faith, for to true and serious believers, suffering brings patience. To some though, trials will bring bitterness, because the natural reaction is to try and escape them, however God uses them to mature us and make us more Christ-like. Ah Friends, it’s indeed a rough row we have to hoe to bring about godly change in our ungodly world, but the same way it changed over the last forty or so years from godly to ungodly, it can also be changed back. But it needs a lot of backbone and belly from us believers. And I’ll leave us with these encouraging words of Bruh Paul to ponder on, re fighting the good fight of faith. He’s just finished warning Timothy about the dangers of worldly living, including the dangerous desire to idolize money. ‘But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, LOVE, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed (confessed) a good profession (confession) before many witnesses.’ (1 Tim.6:11-12) That wise advice pertains to us even more today than back then my people! So please, let’s consciously accept it and put it into action nuh; first in our own lives, then hopefully in those around us. It’s the only way serious, sensible, godly improvement will ever occur in our misguided and troubled world. Much LOVE!…when true believers get together in Jesus’ name…godly changes are inevitable…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 23 April 2012 Hebrews 6:15

23 Apr 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hebrews 6:15.    And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.

It’s Monday fellow believers, and we’re all alive and blooming! Praise the Lord! But it’s also time to roll out and join the workweek battle that’s already begun – it’s quickly picking up steam too. So if you want to reap those promised rewards, both earthly and heavenly, then you’d better get a move on to fight the good fight in Jesus’ army. Now, though victory’s been eventually guaranteed, we still need to be steadfast, strong and persevering against the minions of evil, who currently rule the roost. No war has ever been won by lazy, complaining, inefficient soldiers. Therefore, to boost our naturally lazy, negative spirits and keep us enthusiastically keeping on, let’s ask the Father for His assistance by singing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn with much vim and vigour. All together now: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ And if that doesn’t wake us up Friends, then let’s segue right into Bruh Paul’s famous speech in Hebrews 12, about running the great race of life in faith. ‘Wherefore seeing (since) we also are compassed about with (surrounded by) so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset (ensnare) us, and let us run with patience (perseverance) the race that is set before us. Looking unto Jesus the author (originator) and finisher (perfector) of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.’ (Heb.12:1-2) Yes mih people, in the annals of Christendom, there are innumerable believers who have witnessed to us living by their faith, therefore we must do everything in our power to set the same example for others, now and in the future. And we can only do that by putting aside everything that keeps us back; all the excess baggage, whatever it may be, including any prevalent sin(s) that constantly ensnare us, then running the race of our individual life, God’s plan for it, with patience, both waiting on His timing as well as having the endurance of a long distance runner. And the best example of that is Jesus, who bore all His crosses, literally and figuratively, with a sense of destiny, because He knew the end result was well worth it. As our Bit says: ‘And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.’ Just like Abraham, Jesus was highly rewarded for His faithfulness; a seat next to the Father, a glorious eternal kingdom, and a Name to which all must bow. The same message and principle applies to all of us, His loyal followers today. If we want to be true and serious builders of Jesus’ kingdom my Friends, be the seed in the parable of the sower that ‘fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit a hundredfold,’ (Luke 8:8) then here’s Jesus’ prescription for it: ‘But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest (noble) and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.’ (Luke 8:15) Oh my brethren, I know that it’s not easy living for Jesus, because He requires the utmost trust, faith and surrender from us, with ever increasing excellence, things that this evil, ungodly world don’t appreciate or encourage. But believe me, the rewards for following Jesus are worth every bit of the hard times and frustrations faithfully endured. And we’re not finished with this patience, perseverance, endurance business yet Friends. If we’re not around tomorrow, then we won’t need it (smile), but if we are, then it will be right back on our plates again, because there are so many scriptures that emphasize this very important principle of patience in serving our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Till we meet again tomorrow, the Lord willing, let’s endeavour to truly LOVE our God, faithfully LIVE our Faith, and diligently SPREAD His Word! Much LOVE!…a heart full of LOVE for Jesus…will be blessed with a spirit full of patience to do His will…

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 22 April 2012 Hebrews 6:15

22 Apr 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hebrews 6:15.     And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.

Oh Friends, many of you are going to fellowship with other believers this Sunday morning, or have already done so, if you celebrate the Sabbath on another day. Now many of the physical churches will be, or were crowded, but how did you feel? Did you feel as though you had ample room to interact with God? Or were you sort of stifled? You know the saying that an empty church seems to have more room for God. I believe it’s true. When the church is full, all the bodies take up so much space, that there’s less for God. Hn! Okay, I’m just being facetious, a bit foolish, because as Jesus told the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well: ‘God is a Spirit, and those that worship him, must worship him in spirit and in truth.’ (John 4:24) Therefore, His spiritual presence doesn’t take up any physical space. But the saying is true in the sense that an empty church, or one with only a few people, allows us a closer and often more meaningful interaction with God because there are fewer distractions. And if you don’t believe me, just try it for yourself sometime. Find an empty church, sit down, kneel, or whatever, and see if your communication with the Father isn’t much smoother with less static and external disturbances. That’s why Jesus always went to a quiet place to pray, to talk to the Father. This brings me to what I want to share. Last year in the Gethsemane watch on Holy Thursday night, by myself in the church, around midnight, the Lord advised me to listen. I took that to mean listen to Him more closely and often for guidance, as well as listen to others; do less talking and more listening. Well I believe I’ve improved a fair amount in listening to Him, but definitely not as good in listening to others. I still think I talk too much. Shut up children and stop smirking! (smile) But that’s because of my passion for whatever I’m talking about. However, I’m working on it. Like building faith, it’s a work in progress. Now this past Holy Thursday, the message I received during the Gethsemane watch was; abide in me – with patience. Please note the proviso Friends – with patience. Abiding in the Lord is surely worthwhile, but if we don’t do it patiently, we’ll lose most of the benefits of abiding, for we can’t be faithful and trusting without that important element of patience. We all know that God’s time does not always coincide with ours. We always want everything now for now. But He challenges us to wait on Him, testing us, while building our Christ-like character. But unfortunately, patience is not something on which our society places a high premium. Rather, our world has become very impatient, what with the advanced technology and the numerous, almost immediate ways of communication, we tend to want everything like yesterday. However my people, God’s Word, from beginning to end, stresses patience. Now that could mean mere waiting on Him, or persevering through adversity, or being steadfast and true in faith, basically enduring, but always letting God lead in His time. And one of the biggest tests of patience comes from our Bit: ‘And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.’ The author of Hebrews, whom most scholars consider to be Bruh Paul, is there referring to Abraham, to whom God promised a son when he was seventy five years old, by his wife Sarah, who was around sixty something, way past normal childbearing age. (Gen.12) In the natural that seemed impossible, and they both had their doubts, Sarah even laughed, but they persevered in faith, and twenty five years later, when Abraham was one hundred, and Sarah about ninety, the promised son, Isaac, was born. Thus Bruh Paul could confidently say: ‘Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward. For ye have need of patience (endurance), that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.’ (Heb.10:35-36) Oh my brethren, strong faith with plenty patience is a must if we truly want to serve the Lord God Jehovah! And as Bruh David so eloquently puts it in Psalm 37: ‘Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices (schemes) to pass.” (Ps.37:7) Therefore Bruh Paul could also write this famous passage to the Romans, re the results of justification through Christ. ‘And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience (produces perseverance); And patience, experience (character); and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed (does not disappoint); because the LOVE of God is shed abroad (has been poured out) in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.’ (Rom.5:3-5) And I’ll stop there for today my people, because I don’t want to try your patience too much, (smile) seeing that we live in this very impatient, ungodly world, and many of us have sadly been thus programmed. But we’ll renew our acquaintance with patience tomorrow, provided the Lord sees fit to continue breathing life into our bodies and souls. Till then, please go safely, in peace, hope, LOVE and patience, as Christ Jesus desires. Much LOVE!…I waited patiently for the Lord…and he inclined unto me…and heard my cry… (Ps.40:1)

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 21 April 2012 Psalm 19:12

21 Apr 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Psalm 19:12.    Who can understand his errors? Cleanse thou me from secret faults.

Oh Friends, on this glorious Saturday morn, where it’s raining cats and dogs outside, (smile) I have a spot of wisdom to share; one of the many I’ve found on the fly leaves of my mother’s Bible. This one says: ‘The most deadly sins do not leap upon us. They creep up on us.’ And isn’t that the awful truth my people! We do all sorts of wrong stuff and realize that they are wrong, possibly because they are so blatant, done fairly openly or others might point them out to us. Those we can fix, if we so choose, because we’re aware of them. But its the silent wrongs which grow and build up in our spirits, the ones of which we’re not really aware, that are the real killers. We’re not aware of them until one day the Lord decides to open our eyes, through some person or incident. And then we either deny it, or cry out in anguish to God, saying: ‘Oh Lord was I really doing that? I didn’t realize it. I repent of that terrible sin, and will try my best to stop it. Please help me and forgive me! I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.’ And then we beat ourselves up for being so blind and foolish. But please remember Friends, God has brought our hidden sins to light for several different reasons: First off, so He can test our mettle, our faith, to see what we’re really made of, if we’re truly serious about walking in His will. He might also be looking at our reaction; to see how we respond to that sudden negative disclosure. Some of us will no doubt get irate and doubt it, while others will readily accept it. Then the Lord wants to cleanse us of it, because any sin in our lives reduces the effective communication with God. And most of all, He greatly desires to forgive us, if we come to Him in true repentance. Once we’re aware of that sin, we need to work on it, with God’s help of course. Now don’t feel badly and start brow-beating yourself, trying to find any hidden sins in your life (smile) for all of us have them. Oftimes they are things we don’t even consider sinful, having dropped our standards to that of the ungodly world, so we don’t pay much attention to them until the Father points them out. Don’t worry, when the time’s right, He will make them known to us. No wonder Bruh David declares in our Bit: ‘Who can understand his errors? Cleanse thou me from secret faults.’ He knew that there’s stuff hidden in the deepest recesses of our souls that wouldn’t sit well with the Father, so he decided to take in front, before in front took him, (smile) by asking the Lord to cleanse him of any secret wrongs. Is a long time I haven’t heard that bit of parochial wisdom. The old people might not have had a lot of book learning, but they certainly had a lot of wisdom in living everyday life, that’s why so many of their sayings are still pertinent today. Then Bruh David further asks: ‘Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great (much) transgression.’ (Ps.19:13) Oh Friends, our world is filled with much more sin today than righteousness, plenty presumptuous ones too, for we have taken it upon ourselves to act independently, to play God, and/or worship idols of our own creation. How do you think Jesus feels when He looks down on the mess we’ve made of this life, especially when He came to earth to show us the right way to live? Don’t you think some days He wishes He didn’t sacrifice His innocent life for such ingrates? So many of us are turning to Lucifer, selling our souls for earthly power and material wealth, that Jesus’ followers are now in the minority. And sadly Friends, as long as that’s the case, our world will always be filled with turmoil and calamity, because that’s the mark of Lucifer. Plenty, plenty more of us have to come to Christ for cleansing and forgiveness before we can make serious inroads into Lucifer’s evil collective. We have to do like Bruh David did in Psalm 51, when the prophet Nathan confronted him with his hidden sin involving Bathsheba. (2 Sam.12)  ‘Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy LOVING-kindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified (found just) when thou speakest, and be clear (blameless) when thou judgest.’ (Ps.51:1-4) Yes my people, even men of great faith, men considered friends of God, can be humbled by hidden sin. We need to be wary of stuff we do without fully recognizing their implications; that they are truly sins against God. But when we do discover them, we need to sincerely repent as quickly as possible and ask for forgiveness. But by the same token, once the Lord’s granted us forgiveness, we need to faithfully receive it and let go of the guilt, for that’s a major problem with many Christians today: we sin, ask for forgiveness, the Lord forgives us, but we don’t truly receive the forgiveness, wrongly believing that the Lord can’t forgive such a horrible sin and keep saving the guilt in our hearts. Ah Friends, forgiveness is wasted unless and until we accept it and stop dwelling on it. Then we ought to say something like what Bruh David does at the end of Psalm 19: ‘Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength (rock), and my redeemer.’ (Ps.19:14) Oh my brethren, those are immortal words that would do us good to keep close to our hearts and minds, so they can have a restorative effect on us in anxious times. Much LOVE!…it doesn’t matter which came first…the sin or the sinner…because Jesus is the ONLY ONE who can cleanse them both…

 

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