Today’s Scrip-Bit   18 February 2023 Matthew 16:24.

18 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Matthew 16:24.        If any man will come after (follow) me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

Oh boy, this lazy day Saturday has opened with bright sunshine! It’s cold, but who cares, it’s winter, and that means it’s supposed to be cold. Once the sun’s shining, I’m contented. Sadly though, I’ve already used up my share of laziness for today, so now I have to concentrate on the reality of the situation, that’s doing Christ’s work. 

Now, on Saturday’s, we usually look at the quotes that our friend Anselm sent us during the past week to see how they match up with Christ’s word, as he aspires to inspire us for a better tomorrow, but unfortunately, I did not receive any quotes from him this week, so I’m left hanging high and dry, out on a limb. (smile) I now have to find my own stuff to talk about today. Life sure is strange yes. Usually, I’m a tad anxious about how to use the quotes, figuring I’d have to bust my brain to present them properly, and sometimes wish I didn’t have them at all. 

Today though, I find myself missing them, and having to bust my brain to find something of my own to talk about. That ought to teach us to appreciate whatever we have, although it might sometimes cause us some anxious moments. (smile) Yes, wishing the difficult things away, is never usually the answer, because then we realize how much we’ve become accustomed to them, and miss them when they are taken away. It’s like living for Christ. We need to undergo difficult times and tasks in His employ, and we don’t like them, but if we remove them, then we don’t grow and we don’t get to enjoy the supernatural occasions that Christ brings into our lives, when we walk faithfully with Him. 

Oh friends, yuh like that smooth segue, from not knowing what to write then flowing smoothly into living for Christ. (smile) That’s how the Holy Spirit works sometimes. You can’t beat it! Moving on though, let’s remember that being a disciple of Christ is not easy, although it’s very worthwhile. Jesus stated it very clearly. ‘If any man will come after (follow) me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.’ (Matt. 16:24) Now therein lies the challenge, which basically means sacrificing or giving up our will for Jesus’. And it’s not always easy to do. 

Meanwhile, the scholars explain it thus: ‘Deny himself , that is, refuse his own claims upon himself. Take up: The meaning is “lift up.” It is a stronger word than that used in 10:38, and implies a lifting of the cross on high, so that all may see it. This is the strongest statement in the New Testament about the disciple’s need to crucify himself, by yielding to the claims of Christ’s lordship over him.’  

Wow! Being a true disciple of Jesus does carry a lot of expectations, as He explains in Chapter 10. ‘He that LOVETH father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that LOVETH son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.’ (Matt. 10: 37-38) 

Yes,  that’s certainly asking a lot, but that’s what Jesus does; He asks plenty of us, to be the salt and light of the earth, to spread the good news of His gospel all over the world and to walk faithfully in His footsteps. But the beautiful thing about our Lord and Saviour is that He never asks us to do something without giving us the wherewithal, the tools, the grace to do it. And that’s where He rises way above all the other supposed gods, who just ask you to do difficult and dangerous stuff without giving you the necessary help. 

Now let’s check out Jesus’ statements after laying down the ground rules for discipleship. He reasons: ‘For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?’ (Matt. 16:25-26) And those are very pertinent and timely questions my people. Questions that we should all take time to sit down and ponder on, because they are very important to our eventual destination, be it heaven or hell. 

However, some of us still believe in running down the material wealth of the world which enables you to live high on the hog, but doesn’t do much else. It doesn’t make you live longer, or necessarily happier and ofttimes you die from simple stuff despite your great wealth. In fact, while you are busy making money, you don’t usually have the time to enjoy it. And if you do live long enough to retire, then you don’t have the youth nor energy to truly enjoy the wealth you have amassed. 

Please note Jesus’ parable on the rich fool, where He spoke not against riches in itself, but basically against greed, which is an inherent danger when we are hell bent to accumulate material wealth. The rich man saw all his goods and crowed to himself about storing up his possessions so he could live in ease; eat, drink and be merry. ‘But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that is layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich towards God.’ (Luke 12:20-21) 

Ah mih bredrin, the scriptures make it so clear that fighting to amass material wealth is foolish, but even as true and faithful believers, we continue to do it. Remember when Jesus talked about how material wealth is destroyed by moth and rust, and thieves break in and steal, so the best place to lay up your treasure is in heaven, where there is no moth nor rust nor thieves. ‘For where you treasure is, there will your heart be also.’ (Matt. 6:19-21) And after talking about how nature works perfectly through God’s grace and mercy, He warned: ‘But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness: and all these things shall be added unto you.’ (Matt.6:33) 

Yes friends, if we seek God rather than material wealth first, God will give us all the material things we need, like He does for all the other aspects of His creation. Remember, all things belong to God, and it’s God who gives us the power to get wealth. (Deut. 8:18)  So there’s no need to run it down. That’s why Bruh Paul also warned in his first letter to Timothy. ‘For the LOVE of money is the root of all (kinds of) evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith (for which some in their greediness have strayed from the faith), and pierced themselves through with many sorrows (brought ruin upon themselves). (1 Tim. 6:10) 

Therefore my fellow saints, please, please, let’s wake up and smell the roses nuh, before it gets too late, and stop striving after money and material wealth because it doesn’t get us anywhere. Instead, let’s begin seriously striving after, seeking after the wonderful things of God which gets us somewhere, somewhere beautiful: eternal life with Him in heavenly places! Much LOVE!

…wisdom dictates that you follow the One who gives you wisdom…and that One is Jehovah God…so following Him is wisdom indeed… 

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ  

Today’s Scrip-Bit   17 February 2023 John 10:11.

17 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

John 10:11.       I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

Well, well, well, if it isn’t Friday, the last day of our work week! And a bright and sunshiny one at that, somewhat chilly though, with a small amount of white stuff covering the lawns and rooftops, but I believe it’s the result of a li’l sleet and some freezing rain, no real snow concerns. Anyway, it’s being said all over the world: ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday!’ And the best part of it all is that we’re still alive to tell the tale. Glory be! 

And what a glorious, momentous, light-bearing, soul-saving tale we have to tell: the story of Jesus and the good and exciting news of His gospel! The ONLY way to escape the damnation of hell fire and access the glory of heaven! What an enormous, ground-breaking truth He shared with us, when He proclaimed to the disciples: ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.’ (John 14:6) 

And we better had believe that momentous statement yes, because it’s the glorious truth! It’s only through belief and faith in Christ Jesus that any of us natural sinners can ever enter the pearly gates of heaven and behold the majestic domain of our great and wonderful God! And if you don’t believe that, then try this scripture, when Jesus puts it in the allegoric form of being a shepherd. 

‘Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but (except) to steal, and to kill, and destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.’ (John 10:7-10) 

Mama oh Mama! What a joy it is to hear that scripture! Jesus came that we could have life, and have it more abundantly! Wow! So why are so many of us against Him eh? Don’t we want life, and abundant life at that too, meaning eternal and everlasting life, life that never ends? Well, if we truly do, then it’s ONLY in Jesus we’ll ever find it! 

And here’s one of the things I LOVE about Jesus. When He makes a point, He delivers it with full force, He doesn’t back away and give a half-hearted explanation. Listen to how He continues with the shepherd allegory. ‘I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.’ (John 10:11) And that’s exactly what He did for us; sacrificing Himself on the cross on that first Good Friday so that the sheep in His fold could be saved, be reconciled back to the Father and have eternal life! Showing that He’s a man who keeps His promises regardless of how difficult they are to keep! 

That wasn’t the end of Jesus’ discourse on the shepherd allegory though. He continues: ‘But he that is an hireling (hired man), and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and I know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father, and I lay down my life for the sheep.’ (John 10:12-15) 

Yes friends, Jesus knows His sheep, cares for them like the shepherd does and He died for them to show how much He truly cared. So, I don’t know why we question His intentions and don’t believe His actions. A lot of other people have come, and are still coming, and talked a lot, but He was the ONLY ONE who put His words into action! 

And if you don’t believe Him, then crapaud smoke yuh pipe, you’re S.O.L when you die and your destination is realized. For ONLY when you believe in Him and hold Him true, that you will get a chance to talk to Peter at the Pearly Gates. Otherwise, you’ll be greeting his Satanic majesty at entrance to the fires of hell, with eternal damnation and separation from God your lot. 

Now my people, this next verse in Jesus’ shepherd discourse is possibly the most important verse in the whole Bible for non-Jewish persons. Why you ask? Listen up first, then we’ll discuss it. Jesus states: ‘And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice: and there shall be one fold (flock), and one shepherd.’ (John 10:16) And all Gentiles gave a loud, rousing and grateful cheer of ‘Thank You Jesus!’ 

That’s because Jesus was sent to the Jews, the Chosen People, to be their Messiah, but being the generous and ever-LOVING God that He is, He also extended His window of salvation to Gentiles, those outside of the Jewish faith. And that’s why we can now talk headily about Jesus, and glory in the salvation, grace, and all those other wonderful things of which He is the author and finisher! 

But having said all of that my brethren, the sad fact is that our world is in a serious mess, at the brink of a precipice, drowning in the mire of evil, and we need God’s help to save it. And we communicate with our heavenly Father through prayer, so please let’s go to Him in prayer right now nuh, through our Friday Chant, sincerely seeking divine help. 

Altogether now: ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough… what with all the confusion and anxiety caused by the pandemic and our many other serious problems. We can’t fix them on our own Lord, so we desperately need your help. Oh heavenly Father, with your omnipotent help, and our trusting faith, we know that we can stand strong and steadfast and defeat the simmering unrest in our land. 

So Lord, we sincerely ask you today to give those involved in the forefront of this serious and unexpected storm, the wise guidance to handle the situation properly, without further serious setbacks. And please help those of us who must go out to work amidst all the confusion, to be responsible and to stay safe. And Lord, we fervently pray that You’ll use this situation to return backsliders to your fold, show them the error of their ways. 

And please introduce a new flock of believers, who will embrace your LOVE and compassion by the example, we, your faithful believers set. Yes Lord, please use this pandemic, the bubbling discontent and dissatisfaction in our land, as a means of restoring faith in You, so that our sinful world can wake up and smell the coffee, wake up and smell it sweet and strong! We pray this in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!’ 

Oh friends, there’s no better time than right now, to renew our efforts in the LOVE Revolution, so that our world can be saved from eternal damnation. But it all depends on us, pulling together as one, and doing our part for Jesus! Much LOVE!

…the truth is…Jesus can’t do it without us…and we can’t do it without Him… 

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ         

Today’s Scrip-Bit   16 February 2023   1 John 4:10.

16 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

1 John 4:10.       Herein is LOVE, not that we LOVED God, but that he LOVED us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

And then it was Thursday…and I won’t even bother to tell you the several changes that have already occurred in the weather information on my computer in the couple minutes that I’ve been on it. (smile) Just suffice it to say that it now says ‘2C Cloudy,’ which seems reasonable when one looks outside. Now here’s a li’l something from our One Year Book of Bible Promises with writings by Ruth Harms Calkin that I found interesting, amusing and ever so appropriate for so many of us supposed believers. It’s titled ‘Who. Me?’ 

Please read with me: ‘Lord All of a sudden today You picked me up And hugged me And hugged me for no discernible reason. I was puzzled. After all – I hadn’t picked up my toys Or practised my lessons Or brought you a daisy bouquet – Hesitantly, I sked why. You smiled and said: ‘I LOVE you, that’s all.’ Then You added: ‘I long to hug you more often.’ Why don’t You Lord? ‘You are too busy.’ Too busy, Lord? ‘Too busy hugging yourself.’ 

Yes my fellow believers, in these ever so busy and turbulent times, we are so often too busy with our own selves and our frail, fickle lives, that we don’t find any or sufficient time for God, which always works to our detriment. And it seems to always amaze us when He moves in our lives without any pushing from us. But that’s simply because He LOVES us! He created us to have fellowship with Him. That’s the number One reason! And when we don’t come to Him for fellowship, for hugging and kissing, it hurts His tender heart, tears Him apart. 

Believe me, the Lord does have tender feelings like us. It’s just like when we LOVE fellow humans, spouses, friends and families, and they don’t return that LOVE, we feel hurt and rejected. It’s the same way our God feels when we don’t come to Him with our problems and for simple fellowship and communion. There’s nothing that would please our heavenly Father more than if ALL of His creation came to Him ALL of the time, bringing ALL of their hurts, fears, dreams and aspirations to His understanding and compassionate care. 

To Him that would be the ultimate solution, for then He could LOVE and hug and kiss and comfort and care for us the way He truly wants to. But if we only go to Him once in a blue moon, and then ask for selfish, carnal stuff, like  James 4:3 says, it breaks his heart, just like when our children turn away from us to outside friends for help in their troubles. 

The point is that we don’t seem to realize is how much our God, Father and Provider really and truly LOVES us. The Bible verse for our poem tells it to us in no uncertain terms though. The apostle John writes in it thus in his first epistle. ‘Herein is LOVE, not that we LOVED God, but that he LOVED us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.’ (1 John 4:10) 

And there ought to be no doubt about God’s great compassion and caring for us simply in the fact that He sent His ONE and ONLY Son to earth to die to save a bunch of shallow, prideful, stubborn and disobedient finite creations! There was absolutely no other reason for Him to do that, than His great unconditional LOVE for us. Jesus himself made that very clear when He proclaimed: ‘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.’ (John 3:16) 

Now if you don’t believe that, then you’re insinuating that Jesus is a liar, which He most definitely is not. I don’t know why it’s so difficult for us to believe that our Creator, our heavenly Father LOVES us dearly, but so easily believe that deceitful, untrustworthy humans LOVE and care for us, when every day we see the lie in it. 

And there are so many scriptures which prove that our God LOVES us. One of the most telling being this one from the writings of Bruh Paul to the church at Rome. ‘But God commendeth (demonstrated) his LOVE toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.’ (Rom. 5:8) Now why would He do such an unorthodox and unusual thing if His heart wasn’t strong towards us eh? 

And Jesus said it to the disciples too. ‘Greater LOVE hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ (John 15:13) Now that is the ultimate act of LOVE; laying down one’s life for another. And that’s exactly what Jesus did for us at the request of His heavenly Father. Now doesn’t that show the ultimate in LOVE? It surely does! Why would a sinless man sacrifice His sinless self on an old rugged cross, bear the sins of the whole world through unbelievable ‘sufferation’ if He didn’t care greatly for them and their eternal souls eh? 

The Lord doesn’t even want one of His creations to end up in hell fire with Satan, that’s why He sacrificed His sinless Son, thereby giving us another option beside damnation and eternal separation from Him. And I really can’t understand why so many of us are reluctant, hesitant and downright opposed to accepting the option of eternal life with Jesus by simply believing in Him. It certainly boggles my imagination. And even supposing, now we just supposing, (smile) even if there was no heaven or hell and just death and everything’s over, it is still much preferable to live a good, decent, caring and compassionate life than an evil, hateful one. 

Anyhow, the options are there for us to choose, and both the Lord and I strongly recommend that we choose eternal life with Jesus, rather than eternal damnation with the enemy. And for those of us who agree with that, the Lord’s generously bestowed on us numerous Blessings that we call our Thursday Blessings, that enable us to do His earthly work. So, let’s declare (ah Lord eh!!!) and activate them. In loud and sincere voice. ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! 

I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’ 

And with those sincere declarations (awright!!!) let’s go out and use those blessings just as generously with others as Jesus shared them with us, in His glorious name! Much LOVE!

…and now abideth faith, hope, LOVE, these three…but the greatest of these is LOVE… 

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ        

Today’s Scrip-Bit   15 February 2023   2 Timothy 3:16.

15 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2 Timothy 3:16.        All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.

Now I like weather forecasters, and I know that their job is tricky and not easy to gauge properly, but listen to my predicament this morning. I just opened my computer and saw the forecast for today as 9% C sunny. But outside it’s wet and chilly. Then I turned away for a minute only to see the forecast then saying, ‘temps plummet.’ And as I look at it a couple of minutes later, it now says ‘12% C cloudy.’ Brother all of that in less than ten minutes! So what’s a body to believe eh? 

And sadly, that’s the way a lot of life is these days. You don’t know what’s truth from lies, for everybody is touting something they call the truth and claiming that everything else is a lie. How wonderful it is that we believers have the Bible, the Word of God, the greatest book ever written. But wait a minute, the Bible is not just one book, but a collection of books, 66, to be exact, and that makes it a Library, thus we call it the Good Library. Oh yes, it is indeed a library, covering all kinds of topics, like history, poetry, drama, biography, prophecy, philosophy, science, and it’s even good for just inspirational reading. 

And above all else my faithful brethren, the Bible is the inerrant truth of God! That means there are absolutely NO ERRORS! For, as Bruh Paul wrote to Timothy: ‘All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.’ (2 Tim. 3:16) And as one commentator says: ‘The Bible has been given to us that we may live a holy life, well-pleasing to God. Therefore God says: ‘But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.’ (James 1:22) 

Yes friends, we definitely need to be bigger doers of the word, if we expect to make a difference for Jesus down here on planet earth. But first we need to know the word, so that we can do it, and that takes constant reading, studying, meditating and praying on it. And when we have amassed some knowledge, then we must get out in the crazy world and use it for Jesus’ benefit. One serious reminder here on the subject of knowledge though. James tells us in no uncertain manner: ‘Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.’ James (4:17) 

Now that doesn’t mean we can get away from doing good by saying we don’t, or didn’t know, because if you are a true believer in Christ Jesus, you ought to be studying the word and becoming more mature in the Christian life every day. So as the old saying goes: ‘Ignorance is no excuse.’ So, we all ought to be studying the word, for none of us have yet arrived at perfection, or true maturity, and then putting that word into sincere actions. 

And I like this paragraph from the introduction of ‘How to study the Bible,’ found in my King James Version. It says: ‘The Bible alone truly answers the greatest questions that men of all ages have asked: ‘Where have I come from? ‘Where am I going?’ ‘Why am I here?’ ‘How can I know the truth?’ For the Bible reveals the truth about God, explains the origin of man, points out the only way to salvation and eternal life, and explains the age-old problem of sin and suffering.’ 

Wow! There’s no doubting that the Bible is the ONLY manual that can satisfactorily answer all those questions! Every other theory about mankind falters somewhere along the line, except the Bible. For instance, the Big Bang Theory. As far as I am concerned, that falters right at the very beginning; for what causes the Big Bang eh? Something or someone must have caused it. It doesn’t seem reasonable that just out of the blue, a big bang occurred and the world came to be. But it does seem reasonable that a mighty, omnipotent Spirit, created the world and all therein. 

Anyway, however we slice it friends, the Bible is the most important book in our world, that’s why for eons they have been trying to get rid of it, but every year it’s still the best-selling book in our world! Take that you atheists, big bang theorists and whatever else have you! (smile) And by the way, a moment ago I looked at the weather forecast and it said, ‘temps plummet,’ now it’s saying ‘13C cloudy.’ Glory Hallelujah! 

Oh, I just noticed this glorious ending to our Bit today on the Good Library. But before we get to it, the introduction to studying the Bible also says: ‘The great purpose of the written Word of God, the Bible, is to reveal the living Word of God, the Lord Jesus Christ. (John 1:1-18)’ That’s also true, but what I want to really share are these seven great things that according to Dr. Wilbur M. Smith, studying the Bible will do for us. 

(1) The Bible discovers sin and convicts us. (2) The Bible helps cleanse us from the pollutions of sin. (3) The Bible imparts strength. (4) The Bible instructs us in what we are to do. (5) The Bible provides us with a sword for victory over sin. (6) The Bible makes our lives fruitful. (7) The Bible gives us the power to pray.’ Mama Mia! Does any other Book or faith or whatever give us those many great aspects on life and living? Absolutely not! So please, let’s seriously consider all we’ve said today, and let it help us get into the word ever so much more, so that we can go out and do even more for Christ and our fallen world. 

Now, for those of us who are in tune with that sentiment, let’s go home declaring (chuh!!!) our Wednesday Wail, letting all and sundry know of our wonderful position in Christ Jesus! Altogether now: ‘Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: I’m so glad to be alive on this Wednesday! Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: Thank God the breath of life is still flowing through me on this Wednesday! I am halfway home. My hands are fixed securely on the plough, and I’m not turning back. I’m not looking back at the past, not focusing on what has gone before. But my eyes are fixed straight ahead; straight ahead to a glorious future with Jesus. Glory Hallelujah!’ 

And we like to add this bit of encouragement every week; that if we endure right down to the very end with Jesus, then we’ll find that the future will be even more glorious than we can ever ask or imagine. So please, please let that help us to endure right to the very end with Jesus nuh. Much LOVE!

…a well thumbed Bible…should be the frontispiece of every home…along with the good works it engineers… 

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ       

Today’s Scrip-Bit   14 February 2023 John 15:5b.

14 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

John 15:5b.      …for without me ye can do nothing.

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

So, it’s another bright, sunshiny and fairly warm day, this Tuesday, Valentine’s Day, in the middle of February 2023. And though today is a day where we tout the godly attribute of LOVE, sadly our world is still on its roller coaster ride down to the depths of Hades, with disasters aplenty, both natural and manmade, with strife, anger, wars, rumours of wars and all the negative stuff that a fallen and godless world can dream up. 

This day of supposed LOVE spreading has turned into another economic celebration. All the flowers, chocolates and the many other presents bought and given seem to be only surface fluff and doesn’t truly represent the LOVE of God. It’s very sad that the Lord’s greatest creation has a heart for His enemy and not for Him. Can you imagine the many wondrous things we could accomplish and the truly beautiful world we could be living in if our hearts were set for God rather than for Satan? And for some reason or other, possibly the darkness and ignorance that Satan’s trying to keep us in, we simply can’t seem to understand our sorry plight and get up and do something about it.

Oh, some of us do understand, that’s the body called the church of Christ. But even then, not enough of us are willing to get up and throw down the evil values of the enemy, so that our once beautiful world can regain some of its lost beauty. And that’s rather unfortunate, for if we believers, we supposed Christians, so-called followers of Christ, truly got up and made the noise and did the awesome things of which we are most certainly capable, especially with the Holy Spirit of Christ dwelling within us, then the enemy wouldn’t stand a chance, and our world would revert to some kind of godly order and righteous state. 

But too many of us seem either afraid of the evil-doers, or are just too lethargic and lazy to care. We’re still seeking the material things of the world, rather than the righteousness of God’s kingdom. And once the materialism of the world invades our consciousness, we seem to lose the affinity we should be having towards God. Thus, it makes Jesus, our Lord and Saviour’s teaching of no account, where He strongly advises: ‘But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.’ (Matt. 6:33) 

Yes, friends, please remember that our God created the universe and all therein, and all of it still belongs to Him, it’s all under His control, and whatever you manage to get, all comes from Him. And with His omniscience, He knows what you need, before you even do, and will give it to you without the heartache and heartbreak of trying to earn them in your own strength. That’s the fatal mistake so many of us make; failing to realize that our God is a good God and only desires the best for us, for those who follow Him in all reverence, sincerity and truth. 

What aspects of these bible verses don’t we comprehend eh? ‘The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works. All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord; and thy saints shall bless thee. They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom and talk of thy power; To make known to the sons of men his mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of his kingdom.’ (Ps. 145:9-12) 

Oh my fellow saints, are we doing those things: speaking highly of God’s goodness and mercy, the glory of His kingdom and His awesome power? Are we making known to the sons of men his mighty acts? Definitely not to the extent that we should! Not to the extent where it’s making a real difference to our world! Too many of us are afraid to even speak of Jesus in private, much less to acknowledge Him in public. So what do we expect from the unbelievers eh, but unbelief! 

And what about these awesome words of encouragement from Psalm 107 eh? ‘O, Give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy; And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south. They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary (desolate) way; they found no city to dwell in. Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them. Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses. And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation. Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness (LOVING-KINDNESS), and for his wonderful works to the children of men.’ (Ps. 107:1-8) 

Now that’s what we need to be doing so much more of: praising the Lord for His amazing and undeserved LOVING-KINDNESS towards a bunch of ingrates, so that the world can wake up and understand, appreciate and firmly believe in Him!  And then there are these ever faithful, encouraging and moving words from Psalm 103. 

‘The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous (abounding) in mercy (LOVING-KINDNESS). He will not always chide (strive): neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy (LOVING-KINDNESS) toward them that fear (reverence) him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Like a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear (reverence) him. For he knoweth our frame, he remembereth that we are dust.’ (Ps. 103:8-14) 

Unfortunately though, we beings created from the dust of the earth don’t seem to remember that. We arrogantly, pridefully and ever so foolishly behave like we are the creators. That’s what happens when you’re given free will and you accomplish a li’l something, wrongly thinking that you did it on your own. Please friends, let’s remember that we can do nothing on our own. Jesus stated that quite plainly when He said: ‘I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.’ (John 15:5) What part of that don’t we supposed believers understand eh? 

And let’s hope and pray that those scriptures we’ve read today will make a substantial difference in our lives, or simply wake us up to the sad reality of the situation our world is facing, and that we have the ability to make a godly and meaningful difference to it. Now for those of us who are sincerely doing our best to bring some good changes to our world, let’s go home declaring (yesss!!!) our Tuesday Mantra, letting all the world know to whom we belong, lock, stock and barrel. 

As one strong and sincere voice: ‘In God’s eyes, I’m not what I do. I’m not what I have. I’m not what people say about me. I am the beloved of God, that’s who I am. No one can take that from me. I don’t have to worry. I don’t have to hurry. I can trust my friend Jesus and share His LOVE with my immediate neighbours, as well as with the whole wide world! Glory be!’ 

Now let’s go out and do exactly that: share the amazing LOVE and friendship of Christ with those we meet, so that they too can come to know and LOVE Him like we do! Much LOVE!

…in Jesus…all our fears are quelled…in Jesus…all our hopes and dreams come alive… 

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ      

Today’s Scrip-Bit   13 February 2023 Psalm 78:7.

13 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Psalm 78:7.       That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments:

‘Ugh!! Another Monday? But didn’t we just have one last week?’ Yes friends, we surely did, and unfortunately, whether we like it or not, we’re going to have one every week that the world stays afloat. By the way, that intro was from an old edition of the Mutts Comic Strip. And I know that’s the way many of us feel on a Monday morning, but like so many other things in this crazy world, we just have to grin and bear it, get out there with Jesus in our hearts and with His awesome help spurring us on, make a difference for Him. Remember, ‘we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.’ (Phil. 4:13) 

And once we have that written indelibly in our hearts, souls and minds, then things won’t be as difficult, or appear as hopeless as they often do. Now, facing Mondays should also get easier in the northern hemisphere because the sun seems to be rising a tad earlier, so you don’t have to go to work in the dark. And please note that I didn’t say winter would be soon over. (smile) We still have at least another two months to go before we can safely that. And even then it’s not a certainty, because I’ve seen snow in May and June, and with the crazy weather patterns we now have, anything is possible.

But we really can’t complain because it’s not been that cold so far, and we haven’t received as much snow as some other parts of the country, and of the U.S in particular. For some reason they seem to think that because we’re a little further north than some parts of their country that we’re living in the tundra. But the reality is that they are often colder than us, and this year for sure they’ve received much nastier weather than we have. 

And as I was just skimming through the Good Library, looking for a worthwhile scripture to address, I came upon this most important passage, especially for us in these ungodly times, from Psalm 78, a Maschill or Contemplation of Asaph, titled ‘Teach Children God’s Laws.’  So please read with me. ‘Give ear (listen), O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings (riddles) of old: Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.’ (Ps. 78:1-4) 

Yuh see that friends, God has done wonderful works all down through the ages, which our fathers have told us about, which we in turn are supposed to tell the next generation about, so they would not lose the knowledge of God. But unfortunately we have not done as good a job as we ought to in that direction, that’s why this generation is as godless as it is. 

And listen closely as the psalmist Asaph continues: ‘For he (the Lord) established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children: That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children: That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments: And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not steadfast with God.’ (Ps. 78:5-8) 

Now doesn’t that remind you a whole lot of our generation my fellow believers? It certaindoes! The Lord established a covenant with Jacob that fathers would teach their children about God, about His laws and of His great and mighty works on behalf of men. That way the word of God and His praise would be passed down from generation to generation, since they didn’t have as much of the written word as we now do. But even if you have the written word and you’re not directed to it, or taught about it from young, in your parents house, how are you to gravitate to it eh? 

For the main point of the psalm is verse 7: ‘That they (the children) might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments.’ And that’s where our generation has seriously fallen down on the job. We’ve turned away from God like Israel did, thus our children know precious little about God, because we have not taught them about God at home, and since God is no longer taught in the schools, how will they know about Him eh? 

The society is becoming more godless every day because that’s what’s been taught in the Educational System. And since our children have no basic foundation in the laws and works of God, they have nothing on which to disprove the new education, even if they desired to. Remember the words of Cousin Sol: ‘Train up a child in the way he should go, and (even) when he is old, he will not depart from it.’ (Prov. 22:6) Now it’s obvious that we haven’t trained up enough of our children in the way they should go; that’s the way of God. So it’s one of the reasons why our society is so lawless and immoral; God is not in so many of our hearts. 

But it’s never too late to turn things around, for with Christ, while there is life there is hope. And as always, the first step in anything we do ought to be prayer. So let’s go to God right now, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn for help to turn our godless society around, for He is the ONLY One who can enable us to do it. As one strong and sincere voice: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. 

We desperately need Your divine help, for You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems. Heavenly Father, we admit that we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but we know that You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek Your face. That’s why we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading with You to give us wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems. 

And Father, we pray that you will ease the pain of the many who are suffering from negative situations. Please show them Your awesome grace and mercy, and keep Your promise that You’ll hear our prayer, forgive us, and heal our land if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’ 

Now it’s up to us to do what we know we need to do, so that God can bless us and our out of control world. Much LOVE!

…if God and His Word had not been passed down to us…how would we know of them eh…  

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ     

Today’s Scrip-Bit   12 February 2023 Luke 15:7.

12 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Luke 15:7.        I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just (upright) persons which need no repentance.

It’s Sunday once again friends, a rather warm and sunny one, which requires us to don our Sunday best and hie ourselves to our local church for another celebration of worship and thanksgiving on this the Lord’s Day. And if you’re worshipping at home through technological means, then it’s quite okay to do so in your jammies. (smile) The important thing is to participate in some form of worship to Almighty God, our Creator and Keeper. 

And though this is not of the utmost importance, I remember when we used to dress to go to church. But nowadays you see all kinds of untidy and somewhat inappropriate dress in church. And granted the Lord will take you anyhow you come, still there is something to be said for putting on a good appearance to go to God’s house. As Uncle Charles (Dr. Charles Stanley) likes to say: ‘Look your best, Do your best and Be your best!’ And that’s certainly how we ought to be for God. But as we said, He will take us anyhow we come, He just wants us to come to Him, though we ought to show a li’l pride and look good for Him. 

Anyway, today we’re opening with an interesting song, ‘titled ‘Buried Alive’ By Buju Banton from his 2020 Upside Down Album. We all know he was found guilty of some serious wrongdoing and paid a hefty price for it, but since he’s been out of incarceration, like he’s made a complete 360 turn around in his lifestyle and has found Christ as Lord and Saviour. And this song seems to be his testimony. So please let’s do a sweet, up-tempo, harmonious, uplifting reggae version, celebrating with heaven over one sinner once lost, but now found. 

Singing: ‘Oh Lord, I was buried alive, but I’m still breathing. I don’t know what tomorrow may bring, But I’ve got a feeling. I am alive, there must be a reason, I was given one more chance, my heart’s still beating. Buried alive, but I’m still breathing, I don’t know what tomorrow may bring, But I’ve got a feeling. Now I am alive, there must be a reason, I was given one more chance, my heart ‘s still beating. 

Now all this time… I’ve been blind… only running against the wind. Friends of mine …pass with time… After living a life of sin. Now many give up, many give in. It’s my determination to win. I survived, the worst of times, I survived. Yeah, I was buried alive, but I’m still breathing, I don’t know what tomorrow may bring, But I’ve got a feeling. Oh Lord, Now I am alive, there must be a reason, I was given one more chance, my heart ‘s still beating.

 Oh, they made a ditch for one, but there would be two, In their attempt to out my life, The wicked things they do. But Jah made I brave, and I can’t care the grave, Oh no, The Lord is my salvation, Of whom shall I fear? Yeah, I was buried alive, but I’m still breathing, I don’t know what tomorrow may bring, But I’ve got a feeling. Oh Lord, Now I am alive, there must be a reason, I was given one more chance, my heart ‘s still beating… 

(One more time) Yes, I was buried alive, but I’m still breathing, I don’t know what tomorrow may bring, But I’ve got a feeling. Oh Lord, Now I am alive, there must be a reason, I was given one more chance, my heart ‘s still beating…my heart’s still beating…my heart’s still beating…my heart’s still beating…’  

Yes friends, that’s one of the wonderful attributes of our Great God, He gives second chances…. even third, fourth and fifth! Once you’re alive and willing to turn to Him, He will NEVER turn you away. And in Jesus’ philosophy, He diligently searches for the lost and brings them home rejoicing. No wonder He said after finding the lost sheep in the parable of that name. ‘I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just (upright) persons which need no repentance.’ (Luke 15:7) 

That just goes to show how much Jesus cares for the lost and is determined to find them, through us, His eyes, ears, feet and hands down here on earth. And I like how Buju refers to the old Jamaican saying, ‘If you dig a ditch, you’d better dig two,’ because whatever you plan to do might just ricochet or rebound back on you like a boomerang. And it’s alleged that Confucius said: ‘Before you embark on a journey of revenge, you’d better dig two graves.’ Meaning one for yourself too, for revenge can ofttimes go awry. 

And Cousin Sol said it this way in Proverbs: ‘Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return (roll back) upon him.’ (Prov. 26:27) It all just goes to show that evil deeds can often have surprising effects on not only the receiver, but also on the doer or giver. Buju is simply saying that those who plotted his demise, failed, and Christ saved Him and gave him another chance, which he gratefully accepted. And now the Lord is his salvation. Of whom shall he fear? Those marvellous words of Bruh David from Psalm 27:1. 

And I like how he says that he doesn’t know what tomorrow may bring, but he’s alive, and there must be a reason for that. Yes my fellow believers, there’s always a reason why the Lord has us down here on earth and not at home in heaven. The words of the song are so scriptural and reflect a serious change of heart. Listen to this: ‘Now all this time… I’ve been blind… only running against the wind. Friends of mine …pass with time… After living a life of sin. Now many give up, many give in. It’s my determination to win. I survived, the worst of times, I survived.’ 

Oh, how I wish that so many more of us supposed believers will manifest that determination in our lives, because that’s what it takes to make a difference for Jesus: NEVER, NEVER GIVING UP! And the best verse of scripture re never giving up and being encouraged is certainly this one where the Lord tells Joshua. ‘Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage: be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest.’ (Josh. 1:9) Now please my fellow saints, let’s take that verse to heart today and sincerely live by it nuh, because it’s the gospel truth! Much LOVE!

…there’s nothing or no one Jesus LOVES more than…sincerely repentant sinners… 

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ    

Today’s Scrip-Bit   11 February 2023 Matthew 7:12.

11 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Matthew 7:12.       Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

Oh boy, is this really a lazy day Saturday! I lazed in bed for as long as I could…and now that I’m up, I’m still feeling lazy. And the dry though cloudy and chilly day out there isn’t giving one much encouragement either. (smile) But life must go on. We must do the work that our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ has ascribed to us. So here I am, being ever so obedient and writing the Bit, although my flesh feels like rebelling. And since it’s Saturday, we will turn to the quotes our friend Anselm sent us this past week, as he aspires to inspire us for a better tomorrow. 

Now he only sent me three quotes this week, one of which we had already received and dealt with last week, which means we only have two quotes to consider today. Glory Be! That means we shall have a short Bit! But I won’t go counting on that nuh, because you never know what or where the Holy Spirit will lead me, and with my natural tendency for being longwinded, anything’s possible. (smile) 

So having set the stage, let’s see what this first quote says: ‘Only people who are not happy with themselves are mean to others.’ Now there’s some truth to that statement, I just don’t know how much. Unhappy people do like to see others unhappy like themselves, but if that statement is totally true, then there are even more unhappy people in our world than we thought, since so many of us are mistreating our fellow beings. And I really don’t know why that is, because in many instances there doesn’t seem to be any need for the mistreatment. 

I don’t know if we’re just so evil-minded these days that it comes naturally. Whatever happened to the Golden Rule as outlined by Jesus in His Sermon on the Mount, re asking and receiving? ‘Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.’ (Matt. 7:12) 

One commentator addresses it thus: ‘The Golden Rule, known also as the Ethic of Reciprocity, is arguably the most consistent, most prevalent and most universal ethical principle in history. Many regard it as the most concise and general principle of ethics. The Golden Rule is found in numerous cultures, religions, ethical systems, secular philosophies, indigenous (Native) traditions, and even in the mathematical sciences (e.g. the golden mean). And because it crosses so many traditions and philosophies, the Golden Rule possesses tremendous moral authority and reveals a profound unity underlying the diversity of human experience. The Golden Rule also emphasizes values of mutuality, interdependence and reciprocity.’ 

Yes, it does cut across all different facets of life, and is something we’ve learned since the devil was a boy; do unto others as you would have them do unto you. But somehow or the other we seem to have lost it in these evil and ungodly years. And why is that eh? Who knows. Possibly because the devil’s influence has been getting stronger and more pervasive in the last generation, while the influence of Jesus has waned. 

And I like this biblical explanation of the principle as outlined by Brannon Deibert on the Christianity.com website. He says: ‘In summary, the Golden Rule encompasses the empathic essence of morality. It is a simple yet powerful way of saying that we should recognize the respective dignity of our fellow man and not forget we all are capable of inflicting immoral actions. This is vital in following the commandments of God and creating a more virtuous world….

With regard to the Old Testament, two main points prevail. Matthew’s reference presents the Golden Rule as encapsulating the teachings of the law and the prophets. Second, even though the Golden Rule addresses human interpersonal relationships, its message is additionally theological. That is, the very character of God guides how we should interact and relate to one another. We are to follow and exercise the Golden Rule because God’s heavenly wisdom teaches self-control, and his virtue teaches kindness. 

This proverb is appropriately called the Golden Rule, for it encompasses in its few words the underlying and guiding principle of all morality. It comprises all the rules of the law with regard to man and all the amplification of those precepts given by the prophets. It instructs us to put ourselves in our neighbor’s place, and guide our behavior accordingly. It assumes, of course, that when we put ourselves in our neighbor’s place, we are wise enough not to make any foolish wishes and good enough not to make any evil ones. The Golden Rule was a vital emphasis on empathy and the reciprocity of morality.’ 

And since we are no longer a moral, but a rather immoral society, it’s obvious that golden principle has become irrelevant. Wow! Did we ever say plenty on that quote! Let’s hope we don’t have nearly as much to say on this second and last one, which advises: ‘If you focus on hurt, you will continue to suffer. If you focus on the lesson, you will continue to grow.’ 

Now three’s much truth in those statements, for whenever we focus on our hurts, we tend to make them last longer. It’s just the natural aspect of life. As Cousin Sol says in Proverbs 23:7. ‘For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.’ Yes friends, as a man thinks, so is he. Whatever we concentrate on, will most likely manifest itself in our lives. So if we concentrate on the hurt, the hurt will stay with us even longer than normal. But if we concentrate on the lesson that the hurt teaches us, we will grow. 

And believe me, there is an invaluable lesson to be learned from every hurt we suffer, from every mistake we make. And that’s the difference between hurting and growing. We cannot allow ourselves to wallow in the mire of self-pity when there’s wonderful growth to be achieved on the other end of the scale. And that’s why so many of us are unhappy and feeling hard done by in these tough and turbulent times; we concentrate on the negative aspects of our situations way too much. It’s time to concentrate on the positive aspects instead. And there are always positives to be found regardless of how bad or negative our situations might seem. 

Remember, we have Jesus, the One who strengthens us in all our undertakings, if we turn to Him for His divine help! And that’s the word for today: turn to Jesus, for there’s no better way! Much LOVE!

… in Jesus…we’ll find EVERYTHING we need, want and desire…

 P.S. I warned you! It’s not any shorter than normal. (smile) Much LOVE!

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ   

Today’s Scrip-Bit   10 February 2023 Proverbs 19:1.

10 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Proverbs 19:1.       Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.

How interesting it is to awaken to a house with no electricity on a damp and cloudy Friday morning! Just the encouragement you need to jump back into bed, because it means no internet and thus no messaging or no Bit. And I could genuinely say ‘Thank God it’s Friday!’ and pull the covers back over my head. (smile) But good things don’t last forever, and some forty minutes later the electricity returned. Chuh! I was just getting warm and cozy with the duchess. 

And once the electricity came back, she was ready to be up and about and begin her day. No lounging in bed for her. So, I reluctantly got up too. And here I am contemplating what to write. Obviously, I asked the Lord to show me what He wants me to write on, but nothing has come to mind so far, so let’s open the Good Library and see where He leads me. Soon come. 

And it didn’t take long. He guided me to these awesome words of Cousin Sol in Proverbs. ‘Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.’ (Prov. 19:1) And isn’t that the awesome truth? It certainly is, and it’s highlighted ever so much by our current talkative society, who, with the help of social media talk a whole lot of baloney, on things they know nothing about. I don’t think we’ve ever had so many foolish people in our world like we do today, thanks to social media and the supposed encouragers who manipulate it for their own selfish and evil purposes. 

And sadly, many of us don’t even know the word ‘integrity’ much less it’s meaning. And what does it mean eh? Well, according to the Random House Dictionary, integrity is: ‘Adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty. The state of being whole, entire or undiminished.’ Now how many of us nowadays adhere to moral and ethical principles or are honest eh? Not too many, because those things are no longer the backbone, the foundation of our societal character. Rather things like fraud, dishonesty, deceit, immorality and evil doings now are the guiding principles of our ungodly society. 

And here are some character traits related to integrity, which hopefully will rub off on us and keep us walking along the straight and narrow path. Integrity is: ‘Gracious, Respectful., Honest. Integrity requires honesty. … Trustworthy. People with integrity follow through on their commitments. … Hardworking, Responsible. Those with integrity take accountability for their actions. … Helpful. When someone has integrity, they help those in need. … Patient.’ Yes friends, to have true integrity, we must possess most, if not all of those characteristics. 

Now, if you read through those traits again and compare them to our current society, you will find that we are a failed society under those terms of reckoning. And isn’t it interesting that later on in Proverbs, Cousin Sol chooses to reiterate his words on integrity in a slightly different manner. This time he writes: ‘Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness (integrity), than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich.’ (Prov. 28:6) 

Oh my people, that’s another glorious truth! Wealth doesn’t give us the privilege to behave perverse and foolish, without integrity. But that’s exactly how many a wealthy person and/or family behaves nowadays. As though their earthly wealth has given them the authority to behave like they own the world and can do whatever they want, as dishonestly, deceitfully and ungodly as they desire. But yuh know what? The verse just before that last one offers us an interesting picture as it says: ‘Evil men understand not judgement (justice): but they that seek the Lord understand all things.’ (Prov. 28:5) 

And that’s something we should sincerely contemplate, then try to make it true in our own lives. Sadly though, the Father of our faith, Abraham, suffered two occasions where serious integrity was totally lacking. Twice he lied and said that his wife Sarah was his sister, and since Sarah was beautiful both the Pharoah of Egypt and King Abimelech of Gerar took her for their wives. The Lord plagued Pharaoh’s house with great plagues because of it, and Pharaoh finally saw the light and returned Sarah to Abraham and then ran him out of town.  (Gen. 12:10-20) 

With Abimelech though, God warned him in a dream that Sarah was Abraham’s wife and he was playing with fire if he touched her. (Gen. 20:1-4) Abimelech protested his innocence. ‘Said he (Abraham) not unto me, She is my sister? and she, even she herself said, He is my brother: in the integrity of my heart and innocency of my hands have I done this. And God said unto him in a dream, Yea, I know that thou didst this in the integrity of thine heart; for I also withheld thee from sinning against me: therefore suffered I thee not to touch her. 

Now therefore restore the man his wife; for he is a prophet, and he shall pray for thee, and thou shalt live: and if thou restore her not, know thou that thou shalt surely die, and all that are thine.’ (Gen. 20:5-7) And Abimelech obeyed the Lord’s command, but first seriously reproaching both Abraham and Sarah.’ (Gen. 20:9-18)  

Oh my fellow believers, you see the major problems we can cause others through lack of honesty and true integrity. Meanwhile in Psalm 7, Bruh David pleads with God to deal with him according to his integrity. ‘The Lord shall judge the people: judge me, O lord, according to my righteousness, and according to mine integrity that is in me.’ (Ps. 7:8) Now how many of us have the parts to ask God to do such a thing eh? Not too many. 

And the Book of Job is chocked full of talk on integrity, for Job maintained before his friends and God that he had done no wrong to cause all his calamity to befall him. But I think the moment he shows the most awesome integrity is when his wife tells him: ‘Dost thou still retain thine integrity? Curse God, and die. But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive (accept) good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive (accept) evil (calamity)? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.’ (Job 2:9-10) 

Ah friends, it’s not easy living the Christian life, especially in these last days, but live it we must. And with the help of the Holy Spirit that indwells us, we certainly can live it victoriously. We only have to abide by His leading and guidance. And the first thing He always recommends in our uncertainty is prayer. And there’s no better time for prayer than right now. So, let’s go to the throne of God, through our Friday Chant asking for divine help in our sinful and ungodly world. 

Altogether now: ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough… what with all the confusion and anxiety caused by the pandemic and our many other serious problems. We can’t fix them on our own Lord, so we desperately need your help. Oh heavenly Father, with your omnipotent help, and our trusting faith, we know that we can stand strong and steadfast and defeat the simmering unrest in our land. 

So Lord, we sincerely ask you today to give those involved in the forefront of this serious and unexpected storm, the wise guidance to handle the situation properly, without further serious setbacks. And please help those of us who must go out to work amidst all the confusion, to be responsible and to stay safe. And Lord, we fervently pray that You’ll use this situation to return backsliders to your fold, show them the error of their ways. 

And please introduce a new flock of believers, who will embrace your LOVE and compassion by the example, we, your faithful believers set. Yes Lord, please use this pandemic, the bubbling discontent and dissatisfaction in our land, as a means of restoring faith in You, so that our sinful world can wake up and smell the coffee, wake up and smell it sweet and strong! We pray this in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!’ 

Now, our next move is to truly start living and behaving like the faithful believers we mentioned above, so that the Lord can look down on us with His divine favour! Much LOVE!

…a righteous heart walks in integrity…but the evil heart walks in ungodliness… 

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ  

Today’s Scrip-Bit   9 February 2023 Ephesians 2:8-9.

09 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ephesians 2:8-9.       For by grace are ye (you have been) saved through faith; and not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

It’s raining, it’s raining! Yes friends, it is raining in my neighbourhood, definitely no sunshine to glory in this Thursday morning. But that’s okay, because it means the temperature is above freezing and we’re washing away a lot of the remaining snow on the banks of the roads and the rooftops, ostensibly making space for some more of that white stuff to fall later in the season. (smile) Well, we cannot rule out that possibility because this is the winter season, and that usually equates to snow. 

But thankfully, whatever happens, however the rest of the season turns out, the important thing is that we have Jesus, and that means we’re in good hands, we don’t need anything or anyone else, for He is indeed sufficient for all of our needs, in fact, He is more than enough! And all of God’s children gave a loud and grateful shout of ‘Praise the Lord! Bless His Holy Name, and His greatest gift to His children, His awesome Son, Jesus Christ! Amen!’ 

And that’s the indisputable truth my fellow believers: Jesus is indeed the greatest gift ever given to mankind! He is the One who died so that we could live, that we could be saved from our abominable sinfulness. He took our sins upon Him and gave us His righteousness. How does the Good Library put it? In Bruh Paul’s words to the Corinthians: ‘For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Christ.’ (2 Cor. 5:21) 

Yes, Jesus was sinless while here on earth, and that’s the ONLY reason He was able to pay our sin debts. It needed an unblemished lamb, a sinless lamb to atone for our sins. And I like how this commentator explains that verse. ‘God acted for our sake. That means God acted out of His LOVE, to make it possible to remove the separation between us and Him: our sin. To accomplish this, God made Christ, who had never sinned during His life on earth in any way, to become our sin. Jesus’ death, then, paid the price for our sin, removing our guilt and removing the obstacle between us and God. 

Instead of “being sin” ourselves, those who come to God through faith in Christ are given credit for Christ’s righteous, sinless life. We “become God’s righteousness” and are reconciled in our relationship with Him. In short, by His gift of grace and through our faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8–9), God receives Christ’s death as payment for our sin and gives us credit for Christ’s righteousness in return. That’s what it means to be “in Christ.” 

Glory Hallelujah my fellow saints! If that isn’t the greatest thing that’s ever happened to mankind, then I don’t know what is nuh! That’s why we LOVE and revere Jesus so much: His selflessness and obedience to the Father to go to the cross and accept all the ‘sufferation’ it involved, saved us from a life of torment and hellfire, with certain eternal separation from Almighty God. But His actions gave us an option, an option of immense importance; that we could live eternally and need not die. 

And all we had to do was to believe in Him. As He said to Martha when she confronted Him about His tardiness in coming to save her brother Lazarus: ‘I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead (may die), yet shall he live. And whosever liveth and believeth in me shall never die: believest thou this?’ (John 11:25-26) Now that’s a rather important question we should all ask ourselves RIGHT NOW, for if we don’t truly believe in Christ Jesus, then things will turn out very badly for us in the long run. 

And this passage from an earlier chapter in John, which we all know so well, spells it out in spades. ‘And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have eternal life. 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. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.’ (John 3:14-18) 

There you have it my brethren: all it takes is simple belief in Christ Jesus. And if you don’t believe, then you are already condemned. And you might ask why that is? Well, here’s Jesus’ answer to that question. ‘And this is the condemnation, that light (the light) is come into the world, and men LOVED darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth (practices) evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved (exposed). But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.’ (John 3:19-21) 

It’s all so simple friends. There are only two options: evil or darkness and light or truth. The choice is entirely up to us as to which one we choose. But let’s remember the first option ends in hellfire and eternal separation from God, while the second, and only wise option, ends in heaven and eternal life with Jesus. And I sincerely hope that we all choose the second option, because it’s the only one that makes any sense, that manifests wisdom. And one last reminder of how that process works: ‘For by grace are ye (you have been) saved through faith; and not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.’ (Eph. 2:8-9) 

Please, please, let’s never forget that it’s only through the goodness of God’s grace that we are saved through belief in Jesus, and there’s NOTHING that we ourselves can do to attain eternal life, except sincerely believe in Christ Jesus. Now let’s go home declaring (chuh man!!!) our Thursday Blessings that have been generously bestowed on us so that we can spread the gospel, the good news of Christ, making it known throughout the entire world. 

As one strong and sincere voice: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’ 

Now, it’s our bounden duty to go out and use those tools, as generously as Christ bestowed them on us, to do His work. Much LOVE!

…only believe…even faith as small as the size of a mustard seed…that’s all it takes… 

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ 

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