Isaiah 54:10. For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee.
Oh Friends, it’s a new day, one with new mercies and blessings prepared especially for today! Oh Glory! And I’m gladly seeing an inkling of one of those blessings already, a sprinkling of rain. Thank you Lord! For though the sunny days are nice, without that blessed heavenly water raining down on us, the earth will not be able to reproduce the things it needs to sustain life. So please, let’s all be thankful this Thursday morning, let’s go out with a thankful heart regardless of the difficulties and problems that beset us, just like Jesus did each and every day of His earthly sojourn. And we can do this without fear or dread because of our Bit, a great promise of our God: ‘For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee.’ Oh my people, that is one of the greatest promises found in the Word! Upon it we can securely build our lives and sure foundations! Do we really realize what it says, as well as what it really means? I’m not so sure, else we’d surely make greater use of it. Here is Almighty God, Creator of the universe and all therein, Alpha and Omega, the most powerful Being in existence, promising us that though the hills and mountains may be destroyed, His LOVE, His kindness towards us will never stop. He will continue blessing us regardless of what happens to the physical world, once we obey His will. Wow! Isn’t that mind boggling Friends? And furthermore, He will NEVER break the oath, the covenant of peace He made with our forefathers, which means we’ll walk in peace forevermore, if we stay faithful to Him. Oh my brethren, has any other God, in fact, can any other supposed god promise such a great and everlasting promise? Certainly not! That’s because there’s ONLY ONE TRUE God in all the world; He of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob! And He’s backed up that promise ever since it was made! And all God’s people sang His praises in a loud and joyous voice! Yes Friends, for all His undeserving goodness to the children of sinful, rebellious men, He’s certainly worthy of our undying LOVE and praise. The problem here though is whether we have the faith and trust to accept His promise, to stand on, live and die by it? Now that’s the number one question! And unfortunately it seems that very many, too many of us don’t have that vital faith, because we are being led by the wicked ways of the world and not by the faithful promise of our God. Oh my brethren, just look at where the world’s evil ways have gotten us nuh; well on the road to self-destruction. And just look at the petty, selfish foolishness that’s being played out in the U.S, where the two governing political parties are at loggerheads to renew the debt ceiling of the gov’t. Failure to do so by August 2, will basically mean an insolvent gov’t; one unable to pay its bills, and consequently cause untold worldwide economic disaster. It’s already underway, with the Stock Markets losing millions of dollars in the last couple days, and people losing faith and trust in the U.S gov’t. How foolish can we be eh, playing partisan politics and brinkmanship with the world’s future at stake? That’s four days to go before the world’s most powerful nation will renege on its promise to pay its bills, simply because two sets of ignorant, arrogant, power hungry, money grubbing fools put their personal agenda before that of their nation and the entire world. For make no mistake, though the U.S. may be in decline, still, as it goes, so does the rest of the world. Now put that promise of the U.S. gov’t to pay its bills beside that of our great God to never leave or forsake us, despite the physical destruction of the earth and to always keep His covenant of peace. That of our God is clearly superior in every way! Mankind can, and will renege on its promises, but trust me Friends, and I’m speaking here from personal experience, our God NEVER will. And we’ll end today with some very appropriate words of the psalmist. ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present (abundantly available) help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst (heart) of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.’ (Ps.46:1-3) Oh my people, let’s write those words indelibly in our hearts, souls and minds, then go out and stand strong and steadfast on them, because they are infallible words of our Most High God and consequently will NEVER be broken. More on this tomorrow, God in favour. Till then keep on trusting in Him, for He will never let us down. Much LOVE!…men’s promises are made to be broken…but not those of our faithful God…NEVER EVER!
Today’s Scrip-Bit 28 July 2011 Isaiah 54:10
28 Jul 2011 Leave a comment
Today’s Scrip-Bit 27 July 2011 Proverbs 15:16
27 Jul 2011 Leave a comment
Proverbs 15:16. Better is little with great fear of the Lord, than great treasure and trouble therewith.
Oh Friends, sorry the Bit is a tad late, but the ole fella was a bit under the weather this morning, (smile) Wish I could say that about the wind yesterday that just blew and blew and had the poor trees rocking and rolling all day long. I certainly have never seen so much strong wind in the summertime, and a cool one too, as I’ve done this year. The only problem is that it’s sometimes inconvenient when you want to sit outside, with stuff continually blowing away. Otherwise, it’s perfect. Oh, another reason for my lateness is that my old desktop computer, which I favour, for some unfathomable reason, refused to boot up this morning, thankfully though, not long enough for me to lose my cool. And now that I’ve made all my excuses, (smile) let’s turn to the matter at hand, our Bit: ‘Better is little with the fear of the Lord, than great treasure and trouble therewith.’ Now that’s one of the wisest proverbs that Cousin Sol ever penned, because it’s always better to have reverence and respect for the Lord God Jehovah, even if your earthly possessions are few, than to have much worldly goods and a lot of relational problems. Yes Friends, the most important thing for believers to have in this world is a sense of peace and calm, which can only be acquired through trust and faith in Almighty God. Strife within any aspect of our lives will rob us of God’s peace and take a negative toll on all of our endeavours, even if we own material possessions untold. That’s because strife, dissent, discontent, anger and resentment are the main tools the enemy uses to steal our joy, to make us lose our focus, to take our attention away from God. As Cousin Sol says in the next verse: ‘Better is a dinner of herbs (vegetables) where LOVE is, than a stalled ox (fatted calf) and hatred therewith.’ (Prov.15:17) And that’s the living truth my people! It’s much better for us to eat a simple meal of vegetables, with a li’l bit of LOVE in our hearts, than to be partaking of the fatted calf with negative things like hatred, anger and their fellow accomplices running rampant in our households or establishments. Bruh David says it thus in Psalm 37, the true state of the wicked: ‘A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked. For the arm of the wicked shall be broken: but the Lord upholdeth the righteous.’ (Ps.37:16-17) That’s so true my brethren! I’m sure we’ve seen it for ourselves, even experienced it too: where there is LOVE and unity in poverty, but endless strife and deceit in the lives of the rich and powerful. That’s because spiritual riches are far better than material wealth. Now here’s another proverb that attests to the situation. ‘Better is a little with righteousness, then great revenues without right (justice).’ (Prov.16:8) Oh Friends, it’s ever so important for believers to stay away from the greedy, acquisitive mindset that the world is promoting, because that way of thinking automatically draws us away from God, which is the worst thing that can ever happen to us here on this earth. If God’s not front and centre, first and foremost in our lives, then our lives will be a veritable mess. For only where God resides, where His LOVING-kindness exists, is there any chance for peace and calm to abide. The sad part is that we don’t have to be rich and/or powerful to have strife in our lives. Unfortunately it’s also very prevalent in too many middle class and poor households. What with the wickedness of our world, plus the current economic downturn, it’s so easy for the enemy to infiltrate our homes, workplaces, schools, and even churches. That’s something believers have to seriously guard against, we can’t take it lightly at all my people. Many of us underestimate Lucifer’s power and his weasel-like ways. Please don’t, for he can come at us from many different angles, in many different ways. We have to be constantly on guard for his underhanded moves. Like the advertising people, he’s a master of painting glorious pictures of evil and cruel situations. And the only way to successfully keep him at bay is by having the Word of God securely planted in our hearts, souls, minds and bodies. We have to consistently LOVE our God, LIVE our Faith and SPREAD His Word, so that there’s no room for Lucifer to invade our spirits. As I read in an article a friend recently sent me, when Lucifer keeps banging on our door, the best way to get rid of him is to ask Jesus to answer the door. Wow! What an exciting strategy Friends! That will surely drive his evilness away in fear and disgust. Oh my people, our world has become so evil, greedy, deceitful and treacherous, that we need to be always on our p’s and q’s, always on the lookout for the enemy’s many tentacles surreptitiously coming to trip and ties us up in his network of sin and wickedness. And there’s no better way to end today’s Bit than with these wise words of advice from Bruh Paul to young Timothy: ‘But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment (clothing) let us therewith be content. But they that will (desire to) be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful (harmful) lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition (ruin and destruction). 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.’ (1 Tim.6:6-10) And that’s the gospel truth mih breddren! Please Friends, let us therefore live our lives in accordance with God’s Word, so that we aren’t pierced through with too many sorrows. It’s the only wise and sensible way to live. Much LOVE!…where LOVE truly exists…evil cannot obtain a foothold…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 26 July 2011 2 Corinthians 10:12
26 Jul 2011 Leave a comment
2 Corinthians 10:12. For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves are not wise.
Oh Friends, the heat wave’s over, at least in my area! Thank the Lord! I’ve turned off my A/C and opened my windows once again. I even felt a bit chilly sitting on my front porch last night. Hn, hn! It’s so good to go back to the beautiful summer weather we were having before the insensitive heat wave so rudely interrupted it. (smile) Anyway, this morning when I came down to write the Bit, I felt a pull in my spirit to find a useful quote, and was guided to my ‘I LOVE YOU’ poster, where I found this gem. ‘Almost all of our unhappiness is the result of comparing ourselves to others.’ Now isn’t that the living truth Friends? It sure is! More than half of our world’s problems would be solved if we stopped comparing ourselves to others. But unfortunately that’s the very direction our society is driving us in. We compare ourselves to others more so today than at any other time in our history, particularly with those who seem to be on a higher socio-economic plane than us. We gauge their physical appearance, their style of dress, their houses, cars, wives, girlfriends, hobbies etc, then try to emulate them. And technically speaking, nothing’s wrong with that, but the problems crop up when, without the real means, we still desperately try to be like them. We run up debts to dress and live like our friends, neighbours and associates. We lie about what we have and don’t have, about what we do, where we go etc. We starve ourselves or over exercise to have the slim, svelte figure that a stupid, immoral society dictates is the fashion…and Lord forbid if we’re not in fashion, amongst the fashionista! But those ideas are causing so many people, both young and old, to be seriously led astray. Things like bulimia and anorexia have now reached epidemic proportions. The same thing is happening with older folks trying to look young. Recently I read, and was most surprised, that not only women, but also lots of men are now having plastic surgery to try and regain a youthful look. Why? Because our society is fixated on the young, which means they must look good in the boardroom, and look good to the younger women whom they seem to lust after more, with each passing day. Something must be wrong with me yes, but the young ladies today don’t thrill me at all. I don’t like how they look, dress or behave. They lack the basic class I look for in women. But that’s just me and my old-fashioned self. (smile) Yuh know it’s a sad commentary on our society when we’re driven to compare ourselves to others, to adopt the empty, superfluous lifestyles of the rich and famous, who are also trying to outdo their wealthy peers in amassing more worldly possessions and living a more lavish lifestyle. This just breeds the negative emotions of greed, envy, jealousy, pride, anxiety, anger, bitterness and even violence, when we can’t accomplish those lustful worldly goals. Much of the debt we’ve accumulated can be traced right back to the foolish desire we have of ‘keeping up with the Joneses.’ And though there’s no harm in wanting to look good and live good, when it drives us to do what we can’t really afford, then it becomes a problem, a sin in the eyes of God. And while we’re rushing to compete on false terms and levels, the greedy businessmen are getting wealthier, laughing all the way to the bank, not caring that they are creating a monster that will eventually come back to bite them. Just look at the recent worldwide economic fallout, from which we’re still suffering, because some greedy, unprincipled people built a house of cards to enrich themselves. But would you believe they haven’t learned their lesson, they’re still doing the same thing. Ah Lord eh! But such is the greed and stupidity that mankind has achieved at his highest point of evolution. The Good Lord must certainly wonder where He went wrong when He looks down at our pitiful society; a society that’s evil, ungodly and hell bent for destruction. Oh Friends, the safety, the regeneration of our world depends on us believers. If we don’t infuse peace, LOVE and common sense into our world, then the future certainly looks bleak. Jesus knew the evil stuff we’d get into, and that only the gospel could save us, that’s why He instructed the disciples, and by extension, all future believers, to ‘Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.’ (Matt.29:19-20) But unfortunately we can’t do that properly unless and until we stop following the foolish mores of the world. In this particular case, comparing ourselves to others, and thus bringing on feelings of inferiority or superiority, with all their attendant problems. Friends, please remember that we’re supposed to be in the world but not of it, so let’s take Bruh Paul’s words in our Bit to heart and reduce our participation in the world’s ungodly activities. ‘For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.’ That’s gospel my people! So I’m imploring us to be wise, to pull up our socks and get back to basic Christian principles, as our Lord and Saviour Jesus desires. Only then can our world improve. Much LOVE!…comparisons only lead to doubt, confusion and ungodliness…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 25 July 2011 Psalm 121:1
25 Jul 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 121:1. I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.
Oh Friends, it’s Monday! The day we LOVE to hate, because it means our return to slaving for the man. But here are two encouraging notes; the ground is wet from a thunderstorm a few hours ago, and it won’t be as hot as last week. And all God’s people released a loud sigh and a thankful ‘Praise the Lord!’ Oh, it’ll still be on the warm side, high 20’s, but nowhere near as humid or oppressive. And a good indicator of that is last night, as I was coming home from a function in Toronto, I didn’t need my A/C, I just put the setting to vent and it kept me cool and comfortable. I also noticed a billboard overlooking the highway flashing a potent message: ‘Your destiny is not a matter of chance, but of choice.’ And that’s very true in most instances my people, especially when it comes to our eternal destiny; whether we’ll spend eternity in Hades with Lucifer and his evil cohorts, or in heaven with the Holy Trinity. Oh Friends, that’s the most important decision we’ll ever make in this life, and I’ll strongly advise that you make reservations with the latter trio, because they run the better establishment. Heaven is five star, while Hades is a dump! And furthermore, I ‘d advise you to make those reservations right away, for none of us knows when our number will be called up yonder, and if you don’t book for heaven from down here, then you’ll automatically end up in the quagmire that’s Hades. Anyway, our immediate need is to raise our spirits, to get us enlivened to go out and face the enemy this new work week, so let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn: ‘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 with that spurt of adrenalin and enthusiasm engendered by that prayer, let’s go out and do serious battle now mih breddren! It also segues quite nicely into our Bit, taken from a psalm that praises God’s sustaining power. ‘I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills (mountains), from whence cometh my help.’ Now note that the psalmist isn’t looking at the mountains as a source of help, but more as a reflection of God’s presence and power; their overwhelming strength, majesty and beauty, towering over every thing else, the way our God does. And as the scholars suggest, the last part of our Bit should possibly be rephrased as a question; ‘from whence cometh my help?’ That’s because in the next verse the psalmist confidently declares where that help truly comes from: ‘My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.’ (Ps.121:2) And that’s the gospel truth people! It’s proven by the fact that we just finished singing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, as we do our Friday Chant, to the Lord God Jehovah, who’s the one that gives us the wherewithal to withstand the trials and temptations of this earthly journey. The prophet Jeremiah totally concurs with this truth. ‘Truly in vain is salvation hoped for from the hills, and from the multitude of mountains: truly in the Lord our God is the salvation of Israel.’ (Jer.3:23) And as the psalmist confidently continues: ‘He will not suffer thy foot to be moved (slip): he that keepeth thee will not slumber… The Lord shall preserve (keep) thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.’ (Ps.121:3,7-8) Oh Friends, that says it all! The Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is the creator of this world and all therein. He’s also the sustainer of all those who believe, trust and surrender their lives to Him. So please my people, let’s conduct ourselves accordingly; with respect, reverence and LOVE for our heavenly Father. It’s the only wise and sensible way to live this earthly life. Much LOVE!…he who hath ears to hear…let him hear…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 24 July 2011 Psalm 66:1-2
24 Jul 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 66:1-2. Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands: Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious.
Oh Friends, when is the nonsense going to stop eh? Only when we’ve completely destroyed ourselves? I’m talking about the sad spectacle in Norway’s capital, Oslo; the senseless bombing of the government’s office building, containing the Prime Minister’s office and those of other high government functionaries, then the fatal shooting of at least eighty odd teenagers at an island camp outside of the capital. Ah Lord eh! And it’s hard to believe that that’s the work of apparently one deranged Norwegian male, unhappy with the ruling government. Many of us are unhappy with our governments, but that’s no reason to go blowing up buildings and killing innocent people. If all unhappy citizens acted that way, then there’d be total anarchy. Unfortunately that seems to be the direction we’re headed, for this sickness of wreaking havoc, of being a destructive rather than a creative force, has become too pervasive all around the globe now. The cowardly, murderous behaviour, nicely termed terrorism, has now infiltrated all societies, causing us to live in even more fear than normal. But Friends, until we truly and seriously come together and defeat the satanic beast that’s corrupting our world, our lives will always be less than fulfilled, because that unspoken fear at the back of our minds will constantly have us jittery and anxious. On a much more pleasant note though, some showers of blessing finally fell in the Toronto area last night… And the voices of all God’s people rose to high heaven with a glorious shout of: ‘Glory Hallelujah! Great is our God! And greatly to be praised!’ I don’t think it was sufficient to quench the immense thirst of the parched land, but we’re all thankful for small mercies. On the other hand, the extreme heat is not forecasted to go away for a few days yet. But then again, as true and faithful believers, we all know and operate on the principle that ‘this too shall pass.’ And with that in mind, let’s do what our Bit advises nuh mih people: ‘Make a joyful noise (shout) unto God, all ye lands, (people of the earth). Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious.’ Yes Friends, our powerful but merciful, generous and LOVING God is most worthy of our praise and honour. I don’t think we really appreciate His goodness sufficiently, else we would LOVE, honour, praise, thank and obey Him much more than we do. I’m sure if each us looked back at where we came from, where we are today, and where we’re headed, we’d see quite clearly the hand of God writ large there. None of us could have made it without His constant and merciful help along the way. So why are we so reluctant to give Him the praise and glory that He’s due eh? I guess we’ve allowed the enemy to infiltrate our hearts and minds, causing us to think we had much more to do with our success than we did. But fellow believer, please remember these faithful words of Jesus: ‘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) Truer words were never spoken my brethren! Without Jesus in our lives, we’re lost, helpless imbeciles. End of story! Consequently, it is essential, of vital importance that we constantly praise, revere and glorify the Lord God of our fathers. The psalmists enthusiastically advised it on several occasions. Listen to a few of them: ‘O Come let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise (shout joyfully) to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms (songs). For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.’ (Ps.95:1-3) Then Psalm 105 joyfully proclaims: ‘O Give thanks unto the Lord; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people. Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye all his wondrous works. Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord.’ (Ps.105:1-3) And finally, Psalm 100 declares in conjunction with our Bit: ‘Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands (all the earth). Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.’ (Ps.100:1-5) And a loud, ‘Hallelujah! Amen!’ rang up to heaven. Ah Friends, the major fault in our world right now is that we’ve relegated our God to background status, and therefore don’t praise and glorify Him as we ought, and that’s the main reason why He created us. So please, let’s bring Him back to the forefront of our lives. And the easiest way to do that is by singing His praise and talking of His goodness, letting His LOVE in our hearts shine abroad, so horrific deeds like that committed in Norway, won’t happen again. It’s the only way to prevent such disastrous occurrences. Much LOVE!…only the LOVE of Jesus…can conquer the evil of Beelzebub…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 23 July 2011 Psalm 3:3
23 Jul 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 3:3. But thou, O Lord. art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter of mine head.
Ah mih people, it’s promising to be another hot, humid day in July, though not as hot as Thursday, when we reached temps of 37.9 Celsius, the hottest day in July for many a year. Rain has also been forecasted for some areas, but that hasn’t happened as yet. It’s coming though, only on the Lord’s timetable. Anyway, on this muggy Saturday morning, even if we are somewhat uncomfortable, let’s stand strong in our faith, ‘Looking unto Jesus the author (originator) and finisher (perfector) of our faith…’ (Heb.12:2) and also ‘…the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him.’ (Heb.5:9) That means, regardless of what’s happening in our lives and the world at large, believers ought always to keep looking to Jesus for strength, leadership and guidance. It is not always an easy task to manage when the pressures of life come against us, but our faith requires it. Turning to Jesus in faith during those difficult times also helps us grow, builds our maturity in the Christian walk, which is essential if we want to become true images of Jesus in this fallen world. That is why, Bruh David, when he fled from his rebellious son Absalom, could say in Psalm 3, a prayer of confidence in God: ‘But thou, O Lord, art a shield for (around) me; my glory, and the lifter up of (the one who lifts up) mine head.’ He knew exactly where his strength and salvation lay; with the omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient God of his fathers. And the same still stands true for us today Friends. The Lord God Jehovah is still our rock, our solid foundation and sure refuge, the one who will walk and talk with us through whatever problems we face, and bring us out safely at the end of them all. As Bruh David so gloriously proclaimed in Psalm 5, a prayer for protection: ‘But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest (protect) them: let them also that LOVE thy name be joyful in thee. For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass (surround) him as with a shield.’ (Ps.5:11-12) And that’s the gospel truth my brethren! The Lord will certainly bless and keep from harm those who obey Him, so it’s only fitting that believers rejoice and shout for joy because we are confident in the Lord’s promises to safeguard the righteous. And if that doesn’t move your spirit, (smile) then hear this from Psalm 28, Bruh David’s prayer for God’s help: ‘Blessed be the Lord, because he hath heard the voice of my supplications. The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.’ (Ps.28:6-7) Yes Friends, when we place our sincere trust in Almighty God, surrender our will completely to His, then there’s nothing He won’t do for us. He becomes our strength and shield, our provider and protector. We therefore have great reason to rejoice and sing His praises. As our Bit says, the Lord’s also our glory and the lifter of our heads. Now isn’t His glory a spectacular sight to behold! His throne in the heavens all dressed in splendour, and Jesus, our Lord, Saviour and Advocate sitting at His right hand, with the angels singing praises while they do His bidding! His glory is transferred to us when we humbly and obediently seek Him with a pure heart. His Holy Spirit is born within us causing us to lift up our heads in confidence, throw back our shoulders and walk proudly as befits a child of the Most High God, thinking powerful, positive thoughts like: ‘If God be for us, who can be against us?’ (Rom.8:31) ‘The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?’ (Ps.27:1) ‘And now shall mine head be lifted up (in honour) above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord.’ (Ps.27:6) Oh my people, the Lord God Jehovah is our mainstay: He created us, provides for and protects us, then receives us in glory. Now since He’s so very good to the undeserving children of men, that’s reason enough for us to worship Him with joy and loudly sing His praises for all to hear! My people, let’s think seriously on the things we’ve spoken of today, and accordingly give our God the great praise, worship and obedience He deserves. As believers, that’s our bounden duty. Much LOVE!…Oh, when I remember the good things my God has done for me…I just want to jump for joy…and sing and praise His Holy Name…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 22 July 2011 Psalm 27:9
22 Jul 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 27:9. Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
Ah Friends, it’s Friday once again, that day we so hunger for because we know that it’s going to bring us some temporary respite from slaving for the man. And though it’s as hot as the proverbial hell, people are still rejoicing and singing the mantra: ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday!’ Some might actually want to go to work because they have air conditioning there and none at home, while many will be glad they don’t have to drive a substantial distance in their cars without A/C. But whatever the situation Friends, our Friday Chant will put it into proper perspective. So let’s chant it loud and proud nuh! ‘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.’ Now that should settle us down for today. (smile) But unfortunately some of us are having bigger problems; suffering from afflictions like loneliness, depression, anxiety, isolation and abandonment. Those are not things to laugh or sneeze about, because they cause great pain and distress. Even Bruh David, Friend of God and man after His own heart experienced those problems, and sometimes very badly too. But he knew exactly where to go, whom to run to in those times of despair. As he says in the first verse of Psalm 27: ‘The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?’ And the resounding answer my people, is ‘NOBODY!’ For the Lord God is the proper and perfect destination for all calamity and despair. And to show this, later on in the psalm, Bruh David pleads: ‘Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me. When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, Lord, will I seek.’ (Ps.27:7-8) That brings us to our Bit, where he continues beseeching the Lord: ‘Hide not thy face far from me; put (turn) not away thy servant in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.’ Oh mih breddren, yuh see how many things he crams into that one, short verse; the Lord shouldn’t hide his face from him, nor turn him away in anger, for He’s been his help in times past, neither should He leave nor forsake him. And the most important part of it all; acknowledgement that the Lord is his salvation, his sure and positive hope for an eternal future. Wow! Such simplicity, but so much said, and straight to the point too. And if that isn’t enough to move us, then listen to the next verse: ‘When my father and mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up (take care of me).’ (Ps.27:10) Yes Friends, that’s assurance, confidence, and faith writ large! Can we say the same things sincerely, truly believing them deep down in our hearts, minds, bodies and souls? We ought to. It’s not easy, but it’s the best remedy for whatever ails us, the best antidote for the negative emotions that constantly buffet us in this earthly life. When the pangs of loneliness, sickness, abandonment, anxiety, or whatever depressing feeling assails us, the best thing to do is to run to God so He can tenderly wrap us in His LOVING embrace, and LOVE us back to sound health. Friends, that’s His specialty! He specializes in healing broken hearts, dreams, bodies and anything that’s not right. Bruh David knew this, that’s why he continually cried out to the God of his fathers in times of trouble. Now hear a couple of examples of his crying out to God in rough times. In Psalm 69, a cry of distress, he faithfully pleads: ‘Hear me, O Lord; for thy LOVING-kindness is good: turn unto me according to the multitude of thy tender mercies. And hide not thy face from thy servant; for I am in trouble: hear me speedily (quickly). Draw nigh (near) unto my soul, and redeem it: deliver me because of mine enemies.’ (Ps.69:16-18) Then in Psalm 143, where he’s asking for teaching to do the Lord’s will, he emotionally declares: ‘Hear (answer) me speedily, O Lord; my spirit faileth: hide not thy face from me, lest I be (become) like unto them that go down into the pit. Cause me to hear thy LOVING-kindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee.’ (Ps.143:7-8) Oh Friends, we couldn’t want for a better example of reaching out, of crying out to God than Bruh David. He both saw and experienced much tribulation in his time, but he always made the Lord his refuge, his stronghold. Today I’m asking us to commit ourselves, our lives to that same God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, who LOVINGLY holds us in the palms of his hands, and leads and guides us, like the lost sheep we are. He is the panacea for ALL of our problems! Please, let’s turn to Him today, so that our lives can be filled with mercy, grace, forgiveness, untold blessings and LOVING-kindness from His never-ending storehouse of unconditional LOVE. Sincerely doing that, anoints us with the mark of wisdom and understanding. Much LOVE!…it’s much easier, wiser and more profitable…to run to God…than away from Him…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 21 July 2011 Matthew 3:2
21 Jul 2011 Leave a comment
Matthew 3:2. And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Oh Friends, the dome of heat continues to cover a substantial portion of North America, and we’re forecasted to break even more heat records today, with temps blossoming between the mid to high thirties. Wow! No wonder someone put up a sign yesterday, saying that Satan wanted his weather back. And you can’t blame him for wanting it back, because we’ve had it for so long. (smile) And can you imagine if we’re so uncomfortable and miserable now, what’s going to happen to us if we end up in hell? This will be a mere joke in comparison! So Friends, I surely hope this unusual hot weather will act as a wake up call to many to come to Jesus, so they can avoid the hell fire and damnation in Hades. I don’t know about anybody else nuh, but if this is a precursor to what’s to come, then I definitely don’t want any part of it. I’m going to keep on hanging with Jesus yes! Now though this may all sound ‘jokified’ please take it seriously my people, because it is a very serious matter. Many people are already dying because of the extreme heat, and if it continues, many more will die. Meanwhile numerous brush fires are burning out of control in Northern Ontario for lack of water, but rain is falling in the western province of Saskatchewan. And the disaster in Somalia has finally been termed an official famine by the U.N, and calling for aid to the tune of over a billion dollars. They badly need help over there, but what irks me is that there’s money in the country, but instead of spending it on food and the requisites of life, the fools are spending it on weapons of war, fighting for power. What good is power in an impoverished state eh? No wonder the Lord sighs sadly and shakes His head so often when He looks down on the stupidity of man, who was supposed to be His most brilliant creation. Steups! The lower animals that operate on basic instinct do a much better job of living together than humans. Why would the rich keep getting richer and the poor poorer? Why are billions of people starving on planet earth when millions of tons of useful food are being thrown away every day? Why is the pillar of society, the middle class, the punching bag, whom both rich and poor take advantage of, being slowly but surely killed? I don’t know if it’s a planned move by the powers that be, but if it is, it’s a very stupid one, for the middle class is the one that bears the brunt of society’s woes, and at the rate we’re losing middle class jobs, there will soon be only rich and poor. Who’s going to bail out either? Oh Friends, this is one of those days when the Spirit is speaking to my heart to just let it out re man’s stupidity, his inhumanity to his fellow man, his greed and lust for earthly possessions and power, which are getting him nowhere but closer to death and destruction. For he either dies trying to get what Lucifer glorifies, or when he gets it, he realizes it’s not so great after all. Oh my people, the truth is that this is a time of serious reckoning. If we believe in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, then there must be a reason why our world has suddenly become so disaster prone. The Lord is obviously trying to tell us something. Please note that until now, North America hasn’t felt it as badly as the rest of the world, but it’s obviously our time to stand some steady jammings. My brethren, what will it take for us to wake up and see the obvious signs eh? Armageddon time is near! And if it’s not, then I don’t want to be around for it, cause what’s happening now is Armageddon enough for me. Oh people, it’s a wake up call! It’s our God reaching out to us again, in the words of our Bit, just like when John the Baptist came so long ago preaching: ‘And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Now I’m not likening myself to John the Baptist, since there are many others stating the same case, but it’s just simple logic my people, simple common sense, that if a once prosperous world is quickly going to hell in a hand basket, something must be wrong somewhere. And the only real, serious difference between then and now is that we have foolishly abandoned the God of our fathers for a worthless lout called Beelzebub. My Friends, it’s not rocket science. Please listen to Jesus who always said it simply and clearly. When told about the blood of Galileans being mixed with that of their sacrifices by Pilate, His response was: ‘Suppose ye that these Galileans were sinners above (more than) all the Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, Nay, but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.’ (Luke 13:2-3) Yes mih people, all who don’t repent will perish, regardless of your position: ‘For all have sinned, and come (fallen) short of the glory of God.’ (Rom.3:23) Now hear what Jesus had to say to the church at Thyatira, this concerning Jezebel: ‘And I gave her space (time) to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a (sick) bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except (unless) they repent of their deeds.’ (Rev.2:21-22) Oh Friends, repentance is a must; else we’ll languish in hell fire down in Hades with Lucifer till forever! And remember the heat we’re suffering now is a joke to that in Lucifer’s lair. So come on nuh people, let’s wake up and smell the roses, which are sadly dying for lack of rain. Let’s turn back to a great, a good, a merciful, forgiving and LOVING God, who created us and only asks that we serve and worship Him. That’s not so hard to do, especially when the state of our eternal life depends wholly on it. Please note too, that Jesus thought sin, in any form, wasn’t very nice, so He said it twice: ‘I tell you, Nay, but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.’ (Luke 13:5)So Friends, if we want our world to improve, to be a better place for our children, let’s pay attention and repent nuh. It’s the only way! Much LOVE!…he that hath ears to hear…let him hear…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 20 July 2011 1 Corinthians 9:24
20 Jul 2011 Leave a comment
1 Corinthians 9:24. Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
Oh Friends, the heat wave continues, with no signs of rain in the forecast until Sunday. Wow! We wanted summer, we’ve got summer! (smile) But don’t worry my people, our Sovereign Lord and God is still in control and knows what He’s doing. And though the day may be hot, sticky and miserable, it’s also filled with lots of new blessings and mercies prepared especially for today. The disasters, problems and troubles will continue happening, personally as well as worldwide, but as believers, because we have Jesus as our Saviour and Advocate at the Father’s right hand, we are confident that we can handle anything that comes against us, with the help of His Holy Spirit. So in faith, let’s take hold of those blessings and mercies that we’ve been granted and diligently run with them, the race of glory in which we’re engaged here on earth. As out Bit so wisely queries: ‘Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.’ Yes Friends, that race of life is the most important we’ll ever run. It sets us up for salvation and eternal life, dictates in what manner we’ll spend forever, eternity in Jesus’ company. It’s how we answer God’s call that determines how our heavenly life will be defined. And talking about the high call of God which Bruh Paul kept pressing towards (Phil.3:14) and which we should also endeavour to diligently pursue, here’s an interesting and enlightening note from the scholars on the topic. ‘The call of God is His summons upon the life of His creatures. God’s call has a threefold emphasis. First, He calls all men everywhere to repentance, that is the call to salvation. (Acts 17:30). Second, all Christians are called to complete dedication (1 Cor.1:9). Third, God calls to a specific sphere of service or ministry, or a ‘holy calling.’ (2 Tim.1:9).’ Oh my brethren it’s very important that we look closely and carefully at those three aspects of God’s call in our lives, and see how we’re responding to them. Hopefully with alacrity, full obedience and total surrender, as well as diligence, hard work and enthusiasm for our ministry, whatever that may be. As the author of Hebrews says, and this just had to be Bruh Paul; the language and level of education sounds too much like him: ‘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 Friends, we have to act, to behave like a solid body, putting aside all our differences and controversies, moving as one in Jesus’ name, helping each other to run the tension filled race of furthering God’s kingdom, just like Jesus did when He sojourned here on earth. It’s not an easy task, but a very doable one, when we hold on to our faith. Now here’s the grand finale, Bruh Paul’s last testament. ‘For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure (death) is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course (race), I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, for which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that LOVE his appearing.’ (2 Tim.4:6-8) Ah mih breddren, let’s hope that at the end of our eventful days here on planet earth, at the end our rough and rugged earthly journey, we’ll also be able to say that we fought the good fight, ran the race with guts, and finished it strong, keeping the faith throughout. If we can say that, then we’ll have accomplished the Father’s plan for our lives and be given a crown of righteousness, just like Bruh Paul says. So today, let’s each sit and seriously ponder how the race of our life is evolving, and then make the necessary corrections to bring it into obedience to God’s will. That’s all He asks of us; to trust and obey. Much LOVE!…the race of life is long and rough…but believers need not fear…for Jesus conquered it…and so can we…with His help…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 19 July 2011 1 Corinthians 9:24
19 Jul 2011 Leave a comment
1 Corinthians 9:24. Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
Oh Friends, it seems like the heat wave will continue across a lot of North America today, sans rain too, for bright sunshine has already lit up the darkness of the receding night. Unfortunately that promise of rain yesterday never materialized. Within a couple hours of the skies turning dark, they cleared up and it was bright sunshine and heat for the rest of the day. Ah Lord eh! When is not feast is famine yes! And talking about famine, it seems like Somalia is in the terrible grip of a devastating one right now, with people leaving, in their thousands, walking many miles and days to Kenya and Ethiopia, to find refuge in already overflowing refugee camps. Apparently many are dying by the roadside too, from malnutrition and hunger, especially the children. Yuh know I can’t even look at some of the pictures of the malnourished, emaciated children, they show on the news and the outreach programmes. It just breaks my heart and sickens me to see the sad state of those unfortunate, innocent children, their sorrowful plight brought about in great part by the ignorance, greed, hatred, hunger for power, strife and anger of adults. Friends, please, let’s pray diligently for them, and help in any physical or monetary way we can, for that’s what our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ expects from us, His sincere followers. And it’s all tied up in our Bit: ‘Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.’ Yes my people, helping others is an essential part of the race of life that we’re running here on earth, and we’ll win no prize(s) unless we put our whole heart, body and soul into our efforts. That’s the standard our God’s looking for to decide whether we deserve rewards or not. Believe me, half hearted efforts will not be rewarded! So if we truly are desirous of rewards, both in this life and the next, then we’ve got to ramp up our efforts, starting today, RIGHT NOW, out of a genuine heart, overflowing with true LOVE for our God and our fellow man. I really don’t understand how some of us can see our fellow man suffering and not feel moved, not feel compassion, and an urgent need to help them, even if it’s only by praying for them. It ought to be an automatic reaction, for that’s what Christianity is all about. As Jesus said: ‘For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.’ (Matt.18:11) And also: ‘They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.’ (Mark 2:17) Therein lies our duty as believers, my brethren! Anyway, as promised, let’s continue looking at some instances where Bruh Paul talks about our earthly journey in terms of running a race. Writing to the Philippians, he admonishes them to be shining lights in a perverse world; ‘Holding forth (fast to) the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.’ (Phil.2:16) That admonishment still applies to us today my fellow believers. We even need to shine brighter these days because our world is bigger and even more perverse and evil than in Bruh Paul’s time. And we’ll end today with the memorable words of Bruh Paul to the same church at Philippi: ‘Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.’ (Phil.3:13-14) Oh Friends, we all have heard those words many, many times, but how we’ve responded to them is anyone’s guess. However, today, RIGHT NOW, let’s write them deep in our hearts, souls and minds nuh, then put them into practice. Let’s forget about all the bad things of the past, and instead look forward expectantly and enthusiastically to the future, to all the beautiful things and situations our great, LOVING and magnanimous God has in store for us. Let’s drive, thrust and exert ourselves as we ought to, joyously reaching towards the goal set for us by Jesus Christ. That’s the real mark, in fact the only avenue open for a true believer! Much LOVE!…to run, to strive…and not to faint…that’s our calling… P.S. It’s late, but it’s sweet…and true too. (smile)
