Daily Devotion | SCRIP-BITS

Today’s Scrip-Bit 18 March 2022 Psalm 104:24.

18 Mar 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: bless the LOrd o my soul, bring backsliders back to your fold, drive us crazy, faithful believers, fighting a good fight, free will, God didn't desire robots, he hath established the world by his wisdom, He hath made the earth by his power, he hath stretched out the heavens by his understanding, He watereth the hills from His chanbers, in wisdom thou hast made them all, introduce a new flock, Love God, many are thy wonderful works, O Lord how manifold are thy works, omnipotent help, poor folks, show them the error of their ways, sincere repentance, stand strong and steadfast, the earth is full of thy riches, the Lord is a good and faithful God, the motives of our hearts, the northern climes, the pastures are clothed with flocks, the river of God, the sustainability of mankind, the unpredictability of the weather, the valleys are also covered over with corn, they also sing, they shout for joy, thou blessest the growth thereof, thou crownest the year with thy goodness, wake up and smell the coffee, wise guidance

Psalm 104:24. O Lord, how manifold are thy works! In wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches (possessions).

Bless the Lord, O my soul! Praise His holy name my people, for the Lord is indeed a good and faithful God! Glory Hallelujah! Oh friends, the Lord’s praise is certainly in my heart and mouth this morning because yesterday evening, after some six long months of cold and dreary weather I was able to sit outside on my porch with only a T shirt and a thin spring jacket on and watch people pass by!

Wow! I know that’s not a big thing to those of you who reside in the tropics with warmth and sunshine all year round, but it is a thing of huge proportions to us poor folks in the northern climes, who’ve been cooped up and uncomfortably dressed due to both the Covid 19 virus and the winter weather for so long, that it’s begun to drive some of us crazy. (smile)

And don’t think that we were not thankful for a wonderful, truly spring day yesterday, because everyone was out walking, some even in shirtsleeves. But for all our thankfulness, let’s not be reckless and believe that spring is here to stay. The Lord was possibly just giving us a much needed break, and winter weather could be just around the corner yet. The total unpredictability of the weather recently doesn’t lend itself to stability and reliability. (smile) Today doesn’t even look as though it will come close to yesterday, because it’s cloudy and chilly, although the sun’s fighting a good fight to win the battle for today’s skies.

But as we said earlier on, we worship a wonderful God, one full of mercy, grace and LOVE, who only wants to bless His creation. As the psalmist so beautifully declares in Psalm 104 – God’s preservation of nature. ‘He watereth the hills from his (upper) chambers: the earth is satisfied with the fruit of thy works. He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb (vegetation) for the service of man: that he can bring forth food out of the earth; and wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face shine, and bread which strengtheneth man’s heart.’ (Ps. 104:13-15)

Yes my faithful brethren, the sustainability of mankind and His other creations was indeed the intention behind God’s creation of nature. And the psalmist describes it all so marvellously in this later verse, as he exhilaratingly exclaims: ‘O Lord, how manifold are thy works! In wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches (possessions).’ (Ps. 104:24)

And the earth is certainly a fountain of incomparable wisdom and riches; there’s nothing to compare with it, how it sustains and rejuvenates itself! And the prophet Jeremiah felt so strongly about God’s creation of the earth that he wrote it twice: ‘He (God) hath made the earth by his power, he hath established the world by his wisdom, and hath stretched out the heavens by his understanding.’ (Jer. 10:12, 51:15)

Meanwhile in Psalm 40 – Praise for answered prayer, Bruh David puts it thus: ‘Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up (recounted) in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.’ (Ps. 40:5) Oh my people, only the foolish unbelievers would ever say that God is not a good God for He has made everything in nature for us to live a good earthly life. He is indeed the Creator and Sustainer of our universe!

And if you still don’t believe it, then listen as Bruh David explains in more detail from Psalm 65 – God is powerful in nature. He says in certain assurance of our God: ‘Thou visitest (gives attention to) the earth, and waterest it: thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God, which is full of water: thou preparest them corn (grain), when thou hast so provided for it.

Thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly: thou settlest the furrows thereof: thou makest it soft with showers: thou blessest the springing (growth) thereof. Thou crownest the year with thy goodness; and thy paths drop fatness (abundance). They drop upon the pastures of the wilderness: and the little hills rejoice on every side. The pastures are clothed with flocks; the valleys also are covered over with corn (grain); they shout for joy, they also sing.’ (Ps. 65:9-13)

And so should we too sing and shout for joy my brethren, because the Lord provides for all of our needs when we live in obedience to Him. As Jesus ascertains when he says: ‘But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.’ (Matt. 6:33) And Bruh Paul corroborates it in his letter to the Philippians. ‘But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.’ (Phil. 4:19)

It’s only when we use His gift of free will to disobey His desires and rip up and abuse the earth and destroy His most fragile eco-systems that we begin to suffer the inevitable negative consequences of such foolish actions. But all is not lost, is never lost my people, for once there is life, there is hope in the God of our salvation. And it all begins with going to Him in prayer with sincere repentance. And there’s no better time than right now to take that wise opportunity. So, as one sincerely repentant voice, let’s offer up our Friday Chant to the throne of grace.

‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough… what with all the anxiety, the confusion and havoc that the Covid-19 virus and our many other problems are causing. We can’t seem to fix it on our own Lord, that means 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 both the virus and the unrest in our streets.

So Lord, we sincerely ask you today to give the governments and those involved in the forefront of this serious and unexpected storm, the wise guidance to handle the situation properly, with the least amount of loss to life and property as possible. And please help those of us who must go out to work amidst all the confusion, to be responsible and to stay safe, and avoid any more serious setbacks. And Lord, we fervently pray that You’ll use this situation to bring a lot of backsliders back to your fold, show them the error of their ways.

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

Now, my fellow saints, we have to make sure that the motives of our hearts are right, and keep our promises of being faithful believers, if we want God to answer our prayers in a positive manner! Much LOVE!

…God gave us free will…because He didn’t desire robots… but people who LOVED Him…enough to live for Him…

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8

Today’s Scrip-Bit 17 March 2022 Proverbs 3:5.

17 Mar 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: a compassionate heart, a grim countenance, a reserved place in heaven, abundance, achieve great faith, atonement for sins, be joyful and of good cheer, be not afraid or anxious, be not wise in thine own eyes, courage, curse, defeating the purpose of Christ's sacrificial death, disregard the difficulties of the moment, enter the crazy milieu, expectations of leaisure and pleasure, faith like a grain of mustard seed, fear the Lord and depart from evil, grace, have life more abundantly, heavens seems like a distant nebulous place, heroes of faith, honour the Lord with thy substance, lean not unto thine own understanding, LOVE, mercy, negative word, overcome life's problems, peace be still, prepare for Monday, talent, the complexities of life, the first fruits of all thine increase, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Thursday Blessings, Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, unconditional LOVE, we only grow through adversity

Proverbs 3:5. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Then came Thursday, and we are all moving along steadfastly, knowing that there is only one day between us and the big day of Friday. And I have this interesting question to pose on that subject. Why do we handle life so much better when we have something to look forward to eh, something that pleases us, or will work on our behalf? We handle Thursday quite nicely, knowing that the next day is Friday, and our weekend pleasures will begin.

But we don’t handle Sunday quite as nicely, definitely not looking forward to Monday, the start of our work week. We often seem to have a grim countenance on Sunday evenings as we prepare for Monday. That is when we do prepare for Monday before Monday morning, (smile) and then have to rush and panic and become frustrated before we enter the crazy milieu with other frantic people hurrying to work.

Is it that expectations of leisure and pleasure boost our spirits so much that we conveniently disregard the difficulties of the moment? And if that’s so, then this next question automatically follows; why then aren’t we conveniently disregarding the problems of this world when we think of all the leisure and pleasure we will have in heaven with Jesus?

Is it because heaven seems like a nebulous place a long way off, and neither do we expect to get there for a long long time? (smile) Or is it that we simply don’t have enough faith in Jesus and all His promises to rebuke the things and images of this evil world? But whatever the reason for our disregard of things heavenly, I want to remind us today that that’s not a very wise approach to life.

Remember Christ said He died for us to have life, and to have it more abundantly. (John 10:10) Now that’s not only spiritual or eternal life after we die, but also a good and practical physical life, for heaven doesn’t begin when we die, but when we accept Christ as our Lord and Saviour. So, if we don’t accept the many things He offers down here on earth, we are defeating the purpose of His sacrificial death on the cross at Calvary.

Yes friends, Christ’s death included much more than atonement for sins and a reserved place in heaven! It includes things like grace, mercy, and unconditional LOVE, through the awesome power and guidance of the Holy Spirit! In other words, help to navigate this cruel and wicked world with a modicum of peace, LOVE and joy that’s otherwise unattainable! Please remember His offers of peace and reassurance in John 14:27, and 16:33. And if we sincerely accept them, then we ought not be afraid or anxious, but joyful and of good cheer.

And yes, it can be tough to do those things when the storms of life seem to be coming against us with full force, but Jesus calmed the physical storm on the Sea of Galilee by simply saying, ‘Peace, be still. ’ (Mark 4:39) So, if He can calm physical storms, there’s no reason whatsoever why He can’t calm the emotional and spiritual ones roiling in our souls. But we have to turn to Him seriously and sincerely, and have even a little faith, like that of a small mustard seed, as Jesus describes it: ‘Which, indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among the herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge (nest) in the branches thereof.’ (Matt. 13:32)

Yes my faithful brethren, that’s how the kingdom of God grows in us – little by little. And unfortunately, that growth is controlled by the difficulties we face in this world, because it’s only through adversity that we can grow in faith. Each difficulty we conquer raises the level of our faith, and helps us to conquer the next one in an easier manner. The sad fact is that that as we grow in faith, so do the complexities of life grow in complexity. (smile) But that’s how we achieve great faith.

And if you read Hebrews 11, that great chapter on the Heroes of Faith, you’ll see that all of them went through tough times before their faith grew strong and great. The important thing that they all did though from the beginning was trust in the Lord and acknowledge His faithfulness, even when it wasn’t yet manifested in their lives. Now that’s what God expects of His followers; a high level of trust in His faithfulness although we haven’t yet experienced it. It’s not easy, but that’s why we have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us; to help us achieve that trust.

And these magnificent and wise words penned by Cousin Sol in Proverbs, gives us the perfect formula for achieving it. ‘Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct (make straight) thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel (body), and marrow (strength) to thy bones. Honour the Lord with thy substance (possessions) and with the first fruits of all thine increase: So that thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses (vats) shall burst out with new wine.’ (Prov. 3:5:10)

Oh my people, if you must choose five verses from the scriptures that reflect the best and wisest way to live for and with God, those are them! You can never go wrong if you follow that wise advice of Cousin Sol. But that’s exactly where so many of us go wrong, we might know the advice, but we don’t take it as seriously as we ought, and thus end up with problems that could have been otherwise avoided.

Anyway, the Lord in His awesome grace, has bestowed on us several tools to do His earthly work. We call them our Thursday Blessings. However, since a blessing is not a blessing until it’s declared out loud, let’s declare them right now nuh, so that they can take effect. Altogether now: ‘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 as always, when God blesses us, He also expects us to use those blessings to bless others in His holy name. So, let’s go out and do that as generously as God did it with us nuh. Much LOVE!

…only through the help and strength of Jesus…can we successfully overcome life’s problems…

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8

Today’s Scrip-Bit 16 March 2022 Isaiah 33:22.

16 Mar 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: a benevolent ruler, atone for our sins, be obedient to the Spirit's guidance, be strong fear not, catch our second wind, Christ defeated death, confess that Jesus is the Son of God, end up in hades, endure to the end, endure until the end, establish it with judgement and with justice, even God with recompense, for God so loved the world, for His goodness to the children of men, for the Lord is our judge, game set and match, Give God thanks and praise, God's awesome promises have been fulfilled, have everlasting life, he gave his only begotten son, he will save us, I am halfway home, I'm not turning back, I'm so glad to be alive, my eyes are fixed straight ahead, my hands are on the plough, not to condemn the world but to save it, of the increase of his government, offers eternal life, prince of peace, thank God, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, the breath of life is still flowing through me, the leading and guiding of the Holy Spirit, the Lord is our king, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Messiah, the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord, the Saviour of the world, them that are fearful of heart, this is our God we have waited for him, to a glorious future with Jesus, to any who believe, unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation, Wednesday Wail, Wonderful Counsellor, your God will come with vengeance

Isaiah 33:22. For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; he will save us.

And now that we’ve come to Wednesday, the middle of the work week, hopefully we can take a restful breath and catch our second wind, especially after the snowfall we endured yesterday afternoon that tied up the traffic and caused numerous problems, as it has the bad habit of doing. (smile) But, as believers in Christ Jesus, we are expected, hard as it might be at times, to rise above the worries and problems of this world, through the leading and guiding of Christ’s Holy Spirit that dwells within us for that very purpose.

However, that only happens when we listen and are obedient to the Spirit’s guidance. So, to all of us, I plead, please, please, let’s pay serious attention to the Holy Spirit nuh, so that our earthly journeys can be less difficult and frustrating than they otherwise will be. End of sermon! (smile)

And since the Lord has seen it fit to give us another day on earth to continue His important work, let’s return to those marvellous words of Isaiah that we’ve been studying for the last couple days. ‘For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king, he will save us.’ (Is. 33:22) Yes friends, our God is all of those things to His most magnificent creation. Give Him thanks and praise for His goodness to us underserving children of men!

Now, today we will tackle the last and possibly the most important aspect of them all, ‘he will save us.’ And why is that you ask? Because God can be our judge, lawgiver and king, but if He doesn’t save our sinful souls, we’ll still be ending up in ole hades with the demonic master. So, saving us is of the utmost importance! And Jacob, the father of the twelve tribes of Israel, knew this, for when prophesying over His sons, said about Dan: ‘I have waited for thy salvation, O Lord.’ (Gen. 49:18)

But, being the wise and wonderful Deity that He is, Jehovah God obviously had a plan for that from the very beginning, and made it clear in several passages of His Guide Book for Earthly Living: the Bible. And if you don’t believe me, then listen to these magnificent scriptures of the promise of salvation, beginning with these most encouraging and reassuring words from Bruh David from Psalm 37 – The true state of the wicked.

He ends the psalm thus: ‘But the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord: he is their strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.’ (Ps. 37:39-40). And we know that our God doesn’t make idle promises!

Then Isaiah, in talking about Israel’s restoration to Zion, delivers this message from God: ‘Say to them that are of a fearful heart, be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompense: he will come and save you.’ (Is. 35:4) All through His word the Lord’s been reassuring His people of salvation and a good end. And Isaiah again, in The song of praise by the redeemed, confidently declares: ‘And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God, we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.’ (Is. 25:9)

Yes, my faithful brethren, ONLY, the Lord God Jehovah can give us salvation! And He spelt it right out, so that there could be no misunderstanding, through this mighty promise of scripture from Isaiah that we all know, re the birth of the Prince of Peace, Jesus, the Messiah, the Saviour of the world.

‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgement and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.’ (Is. 9:6-7)

Oh, what a powerful picture that is my people of our Lord and Saviour, Immanuel! A benevolent ruler, who will eventually bring peace and LOVE to our fractured world! And that Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ was born on Christmas Day and grew into the man who declared His Sonship of God, and the fulfillment of God’s promises, His mighty plans of deliverance and salvation for His people, through these awesome words. ‘For God so LOVED the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world ; but that the world through him might be saved.’ (John 3:16-17)

Game, set and match, mih bredrin! Matter done! Salvation has been provided! God’s awesome promises have been fulfilled! And it’s so simple: all we have to do is believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and truly died on the cross of Calvary to atone for our sins! John, the apostle, who walked with Christ, agrees and says it thus: ‘And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.’ (1 John 4:14-15)

Wow! None of the other supposed gods make it that easy to come to them. They can’t, because they don’t exist. But the Lord God Jehovah can do so because He is the One True and Living God who has the omnipotent power to save with righteousness and justice! All glory be to His mighty and holy name!

Ah friends, all I can say is that the option Jesus provides is much better than that provided by the enemy Satan. And since there are only two options, I believe, or rather I know, that Jesus is the wiser choice. However, we each have to make our own decisions. But please remember that there are serious consequences to either choice, and do take the consequences into consideration before making your personal choice.

For those of us though, who have already made the decision to follow Jesus, let’s go home declaring (yesss!!!) our Wednesday Wail, letting all and sundry know of our wonderful position in Jesus. As one confident voice 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 as we remind ourselves every Wednesday; if we endure to the end, the future will be even more glorious than we can ask or imagine! So please let that encourage us to endure to the end nuh! Much LOVE!

…JESUS…the Saviour of the world…He defeated death…and now offers Eternal Life…to any who believe…

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8

Today’s Scrip-Bit 15 March 2022 Isaiah 33:22.

15 Mar 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: behold thy king cometh unto thee, but of power love and a sound mind, conquered Monday, faithful and true, For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, go forth in the strength of Jesus, he will save us, I am the beloved of god, I don't have to hurry, I don't have to worry, in god's eyes, King of Kings, living the Christian life, Lord of Lords, LOVE, not what people say about me, share His love with the world, sweeter than honey on the comb, the Holy One of Israel is our King, the King of glory shall come in, the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our king, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord of hosts is the King of glory, they have not rejected thee, they have rejected me saith the Lord, Thou sayest rightly that I am a king, trust my friend Jesus, Tuesday Mantra

Isaiah 33:22. For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; he will save us.

Oh my people, it’s Tuesday! That means we’ve conquered Monday, and Tuesday is set out before us also for conquering, though the day may be wet and gloomy with forecasts of precipitation and all kinds of trials and difficulties might lie in our way and naturally cause anxiety and fear. A good Bruh Paulian sentence that! (smile) But we need to remember that we have the power of the Holy Spirit of Christ dwelling in us for that exact purpose; to conquer every day which the Lord gives us the privilege of experiencing.

And there’s no better way of starting out than to remember this marvellous scripture of encouragement and reassurance. So, let’s acclaim it out loud together nuh. ‘For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.’ (2 Tim.1:7) Now if that doesn’t lift our spirits and help us to go forth in the strength of Jesus, then I don’t know what will! (smile)

And as we promised yesterday, if God spared our lives today, we would continue looking at the powerful scripture from Isaiah, which states that God is our be all and our end all, in fact our EVERYTHING! So here goes: ‘For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; he will save us.’ (Is. 33:22) And that’s the gospel truth my friends, for the Lord is all those things to us …and more.

Now, yesterday we ran out of time and space after talking about the attributes of judge and lawgiver, so today we’ll look at those of King and Saviour. As per God being our King, the Lord Himself first expressed His kingship over Israel, when they came to Samuel, the then judge, and asked for a human king like the other nations around them. The Lord told Samuel, ‘they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them.’ (1 Sam. 8:7) But nonetheless, later on Israel came to look upon the Lord as their King.

The Psalms, especially those of Bruh David, acknowledge this fact very often. Listen up: In Psalm 24 – The king of glory – Bruh David confidently declares: ‘Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lifted up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.’ (Ps. 24:7-10)

There is no disputing those facts my people. For the Lord God is indeed the King of glory! And Ethan the Ezrahite repeats the kingly attributes of our great God in Psalm 89 titled – God’s sure promises to David – when he declares: ‘Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy countenance. In thy name shall they rejoice all the day: and in thy righteousness shall they be exalted. For thou art the glory of their strength: and in thy favour our horn (strength) shall be exalted. For the Lord is our defense; and the Holy One of Israel is our king.’ (Ps. 89:15-18) It couldn’t get any clearer than that my faithful brethren!

Meanwhile in Psalm 145 – The Lord is gracious – Bruh David opens by declaring: ‘I will extol (praise) thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever.’ (Ps. 145:1) And the prophet Zechariah promised Zion’s future king with these most encouraging words: ‘Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy king cometh unto thee: he is just (righteous), and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass.’ (Zech. 9:9) Now that scripture was played out on Psalm Sunday, when King Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, bringing peace instead of war, like the kings of the earth do.

And what can be better than hearing Jesus Himself declare His kingship when He stood accused before Pilate. The Good Book describes it like this. ‘Pilate therefore said unto him (Jesus), Art thou a king then? Jesus answered. Thou sayest (rightly) that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.’ (John 18:37)

And we also know that because of Jesus’ obedience, the Father hath exalted Jesus’ name to the ‘name which is above every other name…that every knee should bow to His name…and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.’ (Phil. 2:9-11) And we only bow to Lords and Kings.

Then later on in Revelation, we are told about the Beast, the Antichrist and his evil minions: ‘These shall make war with the Lamb (Jesus), and the Lamb shall overcome them: for He is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, chosen, and faithful.’ (Rev. 17:14)

And if you still don’t believe that Jesus is God and King of this world, then listen to this final scripture, also from the Book of Revelation, where John, the writer, says he saw a rider called ‘Faithful and True’ on a white horse, going out to make war and do righteous judgement… ‘And he hath on his vesture (robe) and on his thigh a name written KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.’ (Rev. 19:16)

That’s our Jesus, who, when the Father decides the time is right, will have universal sovereignty…the KING over all those who call themselves kings, and the LORD over all those who consider themselves Lords! Hallelujah to the Lamb that was slain for us! And it looks like we’ll have to leave the aspect of ‘salvation’ until tomorrow. Yes, there is plenty to write about that, and trying to do it today would make the Bit exceptionally long, and our focus these days is very short. (smile)

So, for those of us who are sincerely trying to live for Jesus, let’s go home now declaring…would you believe I’ve spelt it correctly every time today…Glory be! Let’s go home declaring (yesss!!!) our Tuesday Mantra, proudly announcing 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 the world. Amen!’

Now, let’s do our duty by going out and sharing the amazing LOVE and friendship of Christ with others, so that they too can come to know and LOVE Him like we do! Much LOVE!

…living the Christian life with Jesus…oh it’s so sweet…sweeter than honey on the comb…

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8

Today’s Scrip-Bit 14 March 2022 Isaiah 33:22.

14 Mar 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: a judgement of separation, as a shepherd divideth the sheep from the goats, divine help, for the Lord is our judge, forgiving and gracious God, hath committed all judgement to the Son, in uprightness, Jehovah Rapha, LOVE, minister judgement to the people, Monday Morning Battle Hymn, sincerely seek your face, strong faith in Christ, the Father judgeth no man, the God who heals, the Great tribulation, the Lord is our king, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord will save us, the Mosaic Law, the rapture of the church, the shall judge the world in righteousness, the Spirit of the Lord is upon me, the spiritual intention of the law, the Ten Commandments, the Torah, the ultimate fulfillment of, this day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears, wise guidance and direction

Isaiah 33:22. For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; he will save us.

Once again Monday has rolled around, not only with all its inherent problems but also with the joy and peace it brings as a believer in Christ Jesus! Glory be! And the most important question, as always, is, like the song asks, what’s on our minds this morning or afternoon (smile) eh mih bredrin? Hopefully it’s Jesus. Yes friends, Jesus front and centre! And if that’s so, then we’ve already had a li’l talk with Him about how our day will go, ascertaining that something good is going to happen to us today, and something good will also happen through us this fateful Monday in the middle of March 2022.

And per the Lord’s desire, (smile) I opened the Good Book unto a rather interesting scripture this morning, one that seems to cover most, if not all the things that our God is to us. Listen to how the prophet Isaiah puts it as he talks to his people about the salvation awaiting those who trust in God, when Christ will rule the millennial kingdom in peace. ‘For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; he will save us.’ (Is. 33:22) Mama Mia! What an amazing, powerful and all-encompassing Deity we worship! Who else is like, or can even compare unto Him eh? NONE whatsoever!

Unfortunately though, since our God is all things to us, it also means that we have a great responsibility to ensure that we live and follow His edicts and dictates. And that’s because earlier on in that same chapter, as the scholars explain, Isaiah had ‘pictured God’s judgement as a devouring fire, which is so awesome that only the righteous will be spared.’ But before that awesome day of peace will be one of immense sorrow and sadness, the Great Tribulation, when God will pour out all His wrath on the wicked and unsaved. Thankfully though, the righteous and saved, Christ’s church, would have already been raptured, taken out of the world to meet Him in the skies. (1 Thess. 4:13-18)

Anyway, today I just want to look at a few scriptures that reinforce Isaiah’s declaration. As per God being our Judge, in Psalm 9 titled – Praise for God’s justice – Bruh David said: ‘For the Lord shall endure for ever: he hath prepared his throne for judgement. And he shall judge the world in righteousness, he shall minister judgement to the people in uprightness.’ (Ps. 9:7-8) Meanwhile, Jesus, in speaking of His relationship with the Father said it thus: ‘For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgement unto the Son…And hath given him authority to execute judgement also, because he is the Son of man.’ (John 5:22, 27))

He also proclaimed in the parable of the talents. ‘When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory. And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats.’ (Matt. 25:31-32) That’s the judgement of the nations, those living through the Great Tribulation on earth at the time of Christ’s return. Technically speaking it’s a judgement of separation; that of the sheep (the saved) from the goats (the unsaved).

Then we have Peter’s statement when he preached to the Gentiles, where he declares. ‘And he (Jesus) commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick (living) and dead.’ (Acts 10:42) And Bruh Paul, preaching on Mars’ Hill in Athens said it thus. ‘Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.’ (Acts 17:31)

And per the Lord as our Lawgiver, it all begins right at the very beginning with the Lord’s pronouncement to Adam in the Garden of Eden. ‘And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, ‘Of every tree in the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest of thereof thou shalt surely die.’ (Gen. 2:16-17) And we all know the disastrous consequences the disobedience of that law caused; sin and death.

Then there were instructions to Noah, to Abraham, mostly oral law, passed down by word of mouth from generation to generation until Moses final wrote it down, that’s the Torah, the first five books of the Bible which outlined God’s law for the conduct of His people Israel, ‘And Moses wrote this law, and delivered it into the priests the sons of Levi, which bare the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and unto all the elders of Israel.’ (Deut. 31:9) That law also included the famous Ten Commandments, the moral law of God, written on two tablets of stone, which still require obedience in these modern times. (Ex. 19, 20:1-20)

But Jesus in His awesome majesty finally brought it all together when He said, ‘Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.’ And the scholars explain: ‘That is, the New Testament gospel is not contradictory to the Old Testament Law, rather, it is the ultimate fulfillment of the spiritual intention of the law. Where the law had degenerated into legalism among the Pharisees, Jesus now takes the law beyond mere outward observance to the inner spiritual intention of God.’

Yes friends, the Old Testament was a foreshadowing of Jesus coming with His New Testament gospel. As declared in the synagogue in Nazareth, His hometown, when He read the promise of the Messiah from the words of Isaiah 61:1-2. ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to teach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised (oppressed). To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.’ (Luke 4:18-19)

And after He closed the book and returned it to the minister, and sat down, all eyes were upon him. ‘And he begun to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears (hearing).’ (Luke 4:21) Oh friends, don’t you just LOVE how Jesus doesn’t mince words! Unfortunately though we are forced to stop here today, because time and space have run out on us. Tomorrow however, if God spares life, we will continue looking at the other aspects of His majestic and perfect rule.

Now, let’s go to God in prayer with some of our many problems, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn. As one confident but humble 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, my fellow saints, let’s set about keeping our promises, if we expect God to keep His. Much LOVE!

…to God the Father…be all the glory…through Jesus Christ…God the Son…

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8

Today’s Scrip-Bit 13 March 2022 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

13 Mar 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: a future and a hope, according to His abundant mercy, an inheritance incorruptible, angels will attend, blessed us with all spiritual blessings, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, concerning you, count your blessings, Daylight Savings Time, destroys sleeping patterns, do not be discouraged, forget the bad things like God has done, God is over all, hath begotten us again, I know the thoughts that I think toward you, immerse ourselves in God's word, in christ Jesus, in every thing give thanks, in heavenly places in Christ, it will surprise you what the Lord hath done, Johnson Oatman Jr., live the abundant life Jesus died for us to have, LOVE, many are thy wonderful works, money cannot buy your reward in heaven, more in number than the sand, pray without ceasing, rejoice evermore, remember the good things, salvation through Christ Jesus, the greatest gift, they are more than can be numbered, thinking all is lost, this is the will of God, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you an expected end, unto a lively hope, upon life's billows, when I awake I am still with thee, you are discouraged, you are tempest tossed

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. ‘Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.’

There they go again, the powers that be, stealing an hour of my oh so valuable sleep time! I already don’t get enough, (smile) but they insist on speeding up the clock with this Daylight Savings Time business, which no one seems to want, and they can’t prove to whom it’s useful. On the other hand, it’s been proven that it destroys people’s sleeping patterns and the tenor of their lives in general. But unless, and until, a majority of the populace think it’s worthwhile to rise up in opposition, then we’ll continue with the nonsense back and forth every year.

And although that situation is a veritable thorn in the side, the positive side of the ledger is more than overflowing. That’s right, we always make more of the fewer negatives in our lives than the many positives, but that just keeps us from truly enjoying the many gifts bestowed upon us by our heavenly Father. And today we are going to open with a song which encourages us to take the latter position, namely: ‘Count Your Blessings!’

Yes, my fellow believers, we are going into God’s gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise this Lenten Sunday morning, singing this wonderful song written by American businessman, local preacher and prolific hymn writer, Johnson Oatman Jr. (1856-1922). The song so wisely teaches us to concentrate on our blessings rather than our sorrows.

And I like how the website www.godtube puts it. ‘God truly gives us so many blessings each and every single day. Some may even be so small that we might overlook them. The classic hymn ‘Count Your Blessings’ truly reminds us to stop and give thanks for all God has done in our lives. This is definitely a pause we all need to take. Amen.’ So friends, let’s take that pause right now nuh, let’s stop and give thanks for all we have as we sing ‘Count Your Blessings!’ in a wonderful, up-tempo version, letting all the true thankfulness shine forth from our hearts through the sacrifices of praise that emanate from our mouths.

As one beautiful and thankful voice: ‘When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed, When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done. (Refrain: Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your blessings, see what God hath done; Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.)

Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear? Count your many blessings, ev’ry doubt will fly, And you will be singing as the days go by. [Refrain] When you look at others with their lands and gold, Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold; Count your many blessings, money cannot buy Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high. [Refrain]

So, amid the conflict, whether great or small, Do not be discouraged, God is over all; Count your many blessings, angels will attend, Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end. [Refrain: Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your blessings, see what God hath done; Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.)’

Ah mih people, that is the wisest thing we can do in these days of much loss and plenty travail; remember and give thanks for what we have, and not be weighed down by the memory of the things we’ve lost. It’s the only way to live the abundant life that Jesus died for us to have. As one commentator so wisely says: ‘‘If you always find yourself numbering your troubles, you will never find time to count your blessings. There is no use becoming frustrated in your difficulties while you have all the opportunities hiding in them for a turnover.’

That’s the gospel truth, for in our difficulties are hidden opportunities for us to improve ourselves and our lives, but we will never see or find them, if we only concentrate on the negative side of the problem. And the fault lies predominantly with us because we don’t take the promises found in God’s word seriously enough. The Good Books talks a whole lot about the blessings to be found in His kingdom. And if you don’t believe me, let’s check out a few.

Listen to how Bruh David puts it in Psalm 40 – Praise for answered prayer. He confidently declares (yeahhh!!!): ‘Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us ward they cannot be reckoned up (recounted) in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.’ (Ps. 40:5)

And we all know that Bruh David endured a lot of unfair trouble in his life, as well as the consequences of his own mistakes, but he still could declare (awright!!!) that his blessings and the good thoughts of his God towards him were more plentiful than the negative aspects. And I’m sure if we counted our blessings they would also add up to more than our disasters.

As Bruh David plainly acknowledges again in that magnificent Psalm 139 – The everlasting presence and power of God – where he recounts how God knows everything about us and the wonderful way in which we were made. In perfect praise and thanksgiving he declares (yess!!!): ‘How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.’ (Ps. 139:17-18)

And let’s not forget this one from the prophet Jeremiah that we all know and preach, but don’t action enough, where he proclaims on the Lord’s behalf: ‘For I know the thoughts that I think towards you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil (calamity), to give you an expected end (a future and a hope) (Jer. 29:11) Now isn’t that a scripture to cling to? Of course it is!

Meanwhile listen to what Bruh Paul said to the Ephesians: ‘Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.’ (Eph. 1:3) Yes friends, our God is worthy of much thanks and praise because He has opened a blessings account for each of us in heaven, through the work of Christ, from which He disperses it to us here on earth as we need it.

And we certainly can’t forget these marvellous words of Peter. ‘Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively (living) hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you.’ (1 Pet. 1:3-4) Now can we ever forget the greatest gift and blessing ever, that of salvation through Christ Jesus! No way…not if we are wise! (smile)

And we’ll close with these most conclusive verses from Bruh Paul’s first epistle to the Thessalonians, where he advises and admonishes: ‘Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.’ (1 Thess. 5:16-18) Now that’s the epitome, the perfect example of the Christian life; rejoice, pray and give thanks!

So, in these difficult, turbulent and uncertain times, let’s not forget that our great and wonderful God is still on the throne of heaven and in perfect control of His universe, and all we need to do is immerse ourselves in His word and all the promises found there, because He has NEVER reneged on one promise, and will NEVER do so! Much LOVE!

…remember the good things…forget the bad ones…like God has done…

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8

Today’s Scrip-Bit 12 March 2022 John 15:13.

12 Mar 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: a brother is born for adversity, a friend has your best interest at heart, a friend loveth at all times, a friend sticketh closer than a brother, a glimpse of God's omnipotence, a man lay down his life for his friends, a man of many friends comes to ruin, aspires to inspire us for a better tomorrow, demands your silence, denies your right to grow, eccentric ways, free will, friendship between David and Jonathan, greater love hath no man than this, if ye do whatever I command you, it's not light we need but fire, it's not the gentle shower but thunder, LOVE, man needs a wake up call, mano a mano, no man is your friend who, our friend Anselm, the apocalyptic message, the first time was water, the next time it's fire, the strong never learn, the thing worse than rebellion causes rebellion, we need the storm whirlwind and earthquake, ye are my friends

John 15:13. Greater LOVE hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Now it seems like the ole fella is taking advantage of the lazy quality of a Saturday morning by getting later and lazier. (smile) But that’s to be expected of a gentleman getting on in age, isn’t it? Or is that just an excuse to be lazy and rise late, especially when you’re not abed until the wee hours of the morning? (smile) Personally, I think it’s a combination of both, but then they say that a leopard can’t change its spots, so I guess I can’t change my peculiar and eccentric ways…not that I want to.

Anyway, having made my apologies, (smile) let’s turn to our Saturday ritual, looking with a scriptural eye, at the quotes our friend Anselm sent us this past week, as he aspires to inspire us for a better tomorrow. And the first one tells us that ‘No person is your friend who demands your silence, or denies your right to grow.’ Now that’s obviously true, because by definition, a friend is one who has your best interest at heart, and if those in your acquaintance don’t want you to speak up or grow, then they certainly are not your friends.

And the Good Book tells us quite a lot about friends and friendships. Cousin Sol spoke about it several times in Proverbs. ‘A friend LOVETH at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.’ (Prov. 17:17) Then in chapter 18, he asserts: ‘A man that hath many friends must show himself friendly (will come to ruin): and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.’ (Prov. 18:24) And per the scholars’ explanation: ‘A man of many friends comes to ruin. In other words, a man must not spread himself too thin among many superficial friendships. Far better is it to have (a few) genuine friends who become like family and LOVE at all times. (17:17).’

Yes my people, by the very definition, the deep and responsible relationship expected from a friend, in a friendship, one cannot truly have a lot of them. And this last wise word from Cousin Sol is a magnificent one on friends and friendships, where he says: ‘Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.’ (Prov. 27:17) Of which the scholars say ‘As the proper tool shapes and sharpens iron for its desired use, so a man sharpens his friend morally and intellectually by their personal friendship.’

And that’s the gospel truth! If your supposed friend isn’t improving your mind and morals then he is no true friend. For as the next quote tells us: ‘A true friend never gets in your way unless you happen to be going down.’ More gospel truth mih bredrin! A true friend will only block you if he sees you are falling, and then steps in to help you back up.

And the definitive statement on true friendship comes from none other than Jesus, where He tells the disciples: ‘Greater LOVE hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth, I call you not servants… but I have called you friends…’ (John 15:13 15) And then He went out and laid down His sinless life for His friends! Oh what a friend we have in Jesus!

But when we talk about great friendships between two humans there’s none like that between Bruh David and Jonathan, King Saul’s son, found in 1 Samuel 20. By lineage, Jonathan was supposed to be the king of Israel after his father Saul. And though he knew that the prophet Samuel had anointed Bruh David for that job, yet he entered into a covenant of friendship with David.

Instead of being jealous and miserable like his father, he encouraged Bruh David, even letting him know of his father’s cruel, evil and unfair intentions towards him. And then later on when both Saul and Jonathan were dead and Bruh David was king, he sought out and looked after Jonathan’s crippled son, Mephibosheth. (2 Sam. 9) That’s how true friendship operates!

Oh brother, I didn’t mean to spend so much time on the friendship situation nuh, but it just seemed to warrant the time since real friends and true friendships are so few and far between in our current selfish and greedy society. Anyway, the next quote is also an interesting one. ‘The thing worse than rebellion is the thing that causes rebellion.’

And I’m chuckling here because our friend Anselm provides the answer to that in the very next quote: ‘Where justice is denied, where poverty is enforced, where ignorance prevails, and where any one class is made to feel that society is an organized conspiracy to oppress, rob and degrade them, neither persons nor property will be safe.’

Now that’s exactly why we have rebellions; because the conditions of life breed nothing but rebellious attitudes. When people are so dissatisfied and feel that their problems are not being seriously considered, then the last option in their portfolio is simply to rebel. It’s like when you corner a wild animal and it sees no way of escape, it comes right after you, mano a mano.

It’s been the history of rebellions right down through the ages; the weak have been taken advantage of by the strong, and when they can’t take it no more, they rise up in rebellion. But the strong never learn, they keep on revelling in their power, no wonder it’s been a continuous cycle. And that’s why this last quote might just be true: ‘It is not light that we need, but fire; it is not the gentle shower, but thunder. We need the storm, the whirlwind, and the earthquake.’

Who knows friends, we might just need the apocalyptic message very badly right now; the real revelation of things to come, and very possibly real soon Why? Because mankind being the arrogant and egotistic animal he is, who feels his free will, encased in his supposed power and wisdom makes him godlike, meaning he can do whatever he wants, badly needs a wake up call. And only the roiling, churning and upturning power of the universe, a glimpse of God’s awesome omnipotence can possibly achieve that much desired and oh so necessary objective! Much LOVE!

…it was the water the first time…but the next time…it will be the unquenchable fire…

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8

Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 March 2022 Psalm 146:1.

11 Mar 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: bare our souls, bring backsliders back, clothed in white, for dust thou art, Friday chant, happy is he, he returneth to his earth, I will sing praises unto my God, in that very day his thoughts perish, introduce a whole new flock, keepeth truth for ever, LOVE, man's breath goeth forth, man's spirit departs, omnipotent help, our sinful world, positive response, pour out our hearts to God, Praise ye the Lord, Praise ye the Lord O my soul, put not your trust in princes, puts the icing on the cake, right motives, shout Hallelujah, TGIF! Thank God it's Friday!, that hath the God of Jacob for his help, the blessedness of trusting God, the Lord openeth the eyes of the blind, the Lord shall reign forever, the throne of grace, the way of the wicked, trusting faith, unrest in our streets, unto dust shalt thou return, wake up and smell the coffee, while I live I will praise the Lord, whose hope is in the Lord his God, wise guidance

Psalm 146:1. Praise ye the Lord (shout Hallelujah). Praise ye the Lord, O my soul.

Well, the ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday!’ slogan is not being met with sunny skies today, but with precipitation of the white stuff. Some fell overnight, and some more is currently falling, but it doesn’t seem to be anything to really worry about, although any amount of snow can be dangerous to the unsuspecting person. Oh, and I think I’ve finally solved the mystery of my clean driveway, as opposed to all the others in the lane being clothed in white.

I suspect that the last time there was a substantial snowfall, the people who clean my driveway put down salt on it, so that when small amounts fall, it melts automatically. Now that’s the only reason I can come up with, because the same thing’s happening out there right now; my driveway is snow free, while the others are not. And when I went to bed this morning there was snow on it, but by the time I got up, it was clean again. But who knows what’s really happening eh?

This one thing I do know about though, that’s ‘The blessedness of trusting God.’ Yes friends, we can never go wrong in that regard. And if you don’t believe me, then let’s check out Psalm 146, which bears that most wise and encouraging title. (smile) The psalmist begins by proclaiming ‘Praise ye the Lord (shout Hallelujah). Praise ye the Lord, O my soul.’ (Ps. 146:1) Now there’s no doubt that if we do treasure the Lord’s sovereignty, honour and glory, then praise should continually emanate from our mouths.

Therefore, as the psalmist continues, we should all declare, (chuh!!!) I really can’t believe that I’ve spelt that word wrong again, in its simplest form too! It must be the enemy causing me to do it yes! (smile) And that’s why I definitely have to do like the psalmist says. ‘While I live will I praise thee Lord: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being.’ (Ps. 146:2) And that doesn’t only bring joy to God’s heart but also to ours. It lifts our spirits and renews our confidence in Him.

Thus, this marvellous bit of wisdom from the psalmist. ‘Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man (a human being), in whom there is no help (no salvation).’ (Ps. 146:3) And I do hope we all recognize that gospel truth, for as the psalm further testifies: ‘His (man’s) breath goeth forth (his spirit departs), he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish.’ (Ps. 146:4) So, if man’s body returns to the dust from which he was formed and all the thoughts of his life disappear, why then put our trust in him? No reason whatsoever, since it’s not wise to put our trust in something that doesn’t last or can’t help us for any real length of time.

However, the psalmist does provide this wise solution. He says: ‘Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God.’ (Ps. 146:5) Wow! But why is that eh? Because God is He ‘Which made heaven, and earth, the sea and all that therein is: which keepeth truth for ever; Which executeth judgement (justice) for the oppressed: which giveth food to the hungry. The Lord looseth (gives freedom to) the prisoners: The Lord openeth the eyes of the blind: the Lord raiseth them that are bowed down: the Lord LOVETH the righteous: The Lord preserveth (watches over) the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and widow: but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down (makes crooked).’ (Ps. 146:6-9)

Now those are all most excellent reasons for putting our trust in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. And why not eh, since He made the heavens, the earth, the sea and all therein, which includes us? So, it makes much more sense to worship the Creator, God the Father, instead of the created human being, who is frail, fickle, not trustworthy and above all, in a few short years, dies and becomes of no account. That brings us to this last very good reason to praise and worship the Creator of the universe.

The psalmist tells us in no uncertain terms: ‘The Lord shall reign for ever, even thy God, O Zion, unto all generations. Praise ye the Lord.’ (Ps. 146:10) And that just puts the icing on the cake my fellow saints! Man dies and returns to the dust from which he came, but the great, the ONE and ONLY true God; He of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob lives and reigns forever! That’s another fact we cannot dispute, which means it’s safe to put our trust in Him, and all that He stands for. In other words, ‘The blessedness of trusting God.’

Ah mih people, I’ve been around a fairly long time, and been associated with God throughout, though not always in close communication, (smile) but I’ve seen enough of His goodness and mercy, both in others and personally, to confidently second all that the psalmist says. The Lord God Jehovah is so wonderful and LOVES us so much, His most wonderful, but not always the brightest creation, that He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ to die for us, so that our sins could be forgiven! Now which other supposed god, could, or would do that eh? NONE!

That’s why it is undisputed wisdom to put our trust and hope in Him. And the first step in that regard, entails going to Him in prayer, which we can do right now, through our Friday Chant. So, in confident, but humble voice, let’s approach the throne of grace and bare our souls. ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough… what with all the anxiety, the confusion and havoc that the Covid-19 virus and our many other problems are causing. We can’t seem to fix it on our own Lord, that means 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 both the virus and the unrest in our streets. So Lord, we sincerely ask you today to give the governments and those involved in the forefront of this serious and unexpected storm, the wise guidance to handle the situation properly, with the least amount of loss to life and property as possible. And please help those of us who must go out to work amidst all the confusion, to be responsible and to stay safe, and avoid any more serious setbacks.

And Lord, we fervently pray that You’ll use this situation to bring a lot of backsliders back to your fold, show them the error of their ways. And please introduce a whole new flock, who will embrace your LOVE and compassion by the example, we, your faithful believers set. Yes Lord, please use this pandemic and the unrest in the streets as a means of restoring faith in You, so that our sinful world can wake up and smell the coffee, sweet and strong! We pray this in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!’

Now, it’s fine to pour out our hearts to God, but we must remember to make sure our motives are right, and that we keep any vows that we make, if we expect to receive any positive response. Much LOVE!

…God’s promise to man…for dust thou art…and unto dust shalt thou return… (Gen. 3:19b)

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8

Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 March 2022 John 14:15.

10 Mar 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: a compassionate heart, accept His easy yoke and light burden, acknowledge that Christ is Lord, all these things shall be added unto you, curse, do God's work with diligence and excellence, don't take them out of the world, fought tenaciously for Christ, if ye love me keep my commandments, LOVE, negative word, one more day on God's glorious earth, peace be still, prosper and succeed, receive clear direction for my life, rule the roost, Satan's vice-like grip on our world, seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, spreading the gospel, standing up strong for Jesus, supernatural wisdom, the Great Commission, the name above every other name, the offer of salvation and eternal life, the only wise and truthful way to live, they are not of the world, this fallen earth, Thursday Blessings, two hallmarks of Christ's ministry, what's wrong with right living, white washed sepulchres

John 14:15. If ye LOVE me keep my commandments.

Oh my people, we’ve been blessed with one more day on God’s glorious earth…with sunshine to boot! What an honour! You can search all the obits and you won’t find our names there, (smile) that’s because the Lord still has work down here on earth for us to do. So let’s get to it nuh, with both diligence and excellence, two hallmarks of Christ’s ministry.

Yes, friends, these troubled times are desperately crying out for the hand of Jesus, His awesome revitalizing touch, to bring some semblance of calm and peace to them. He is the ONLY ONE who can do that miraculous job! Remember when He simply said to the raging storm on the Sea of Galilee ‘Peace be still,’ (Mark 4:39) and both the wind and the sea obeyed?

Well, right now He’s asking us to get real serious about the Great Commission He gave us two thousand years ago, that’s spreading His gospel, the good news, the wonderful offer of salvation and eternal life that He sacrificed His sinless self on the cross of Calvary for us to have.

And that’s because His Word is the only thing that will reverse the tremendous slide that’s recently taken place towards the side of evil and ungodliness, where anger, hate, strife and greed rule the roost, and so many people get annoyed and angry when you call the name of Jesus. Living wrong seems to be the big thrill these days. But as the song asks: ‘What’s wrong with living right eh?’ What’s wrong with living for Jesus?

To my mind, nothing at all! In fact, it’s the ONLY wise and truthful way to live! And that’s how He is asking us to live in these scary and uncertain times…for Him. As He simply said when He was here on earth: ‘If ye LOVE me keep my commandments.’ (John 14:15) Yes my brethren, they are a few simple words, but they carry a rather profound meaning. We can’t truly LOVE Him unless we keep His commandments, do what He asks of us.

Now, we obviously have not done what He asks of us, at least not the extent we need to, otherwise our world would not be in the sad and sorrowful state it’s currently in. Satan would not have the terrible vise-like, death-grip on our world that he now has. Not enough people have heard of Christ and His good news gospel, neither have we been good enough examples of Christ-like living.

Sadly, many have been turned off of Jesus because of the hypocritical way we supposed Christians live. We talk one way, but in actual fact live another, like the Pharisees of old, who Jesus called ‘whitewashed sepulchres’ or tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but are thoroughly unclean within. (Matt. 23:27)

And unfortunately, until the bulk of us believers truly begin living for Jesus, both on the outside and the inside, our words of salvation and eternal life won’t make much difference to the unbelievers, and Satan will retain his vise-like grip on the neck of our world, continually dragging us down to hell with him.

Oh, I know I’m not painting a pretty picture, but that’s just how it is. It’s the reality of the situation. With all the amazing resources we currently have to spread God’s Word, we ought to be doing better than we are. The problem is that we don’t take Jesus’ words as seriously as we should. Words like ‘seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things (you need) shall be added unto you.’ (Matt. 6:33)

And we forget Jesus’ prayer request to the Father on our behalf. ‘I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that that thou shouldest keep them from the evil (one). They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.’ (John 17:14-16)

However, despite Christ’s intervention on our behalf too many of us still seek the things of the world, it’s wealth, power, social standing and other stuff that does not help us in our walk with Christ. And since God has given us free will to do as we please, if we choose to live a life filled with the things of the world, He won’t stop us.

Sadly, not enough of us are standing up strong for Jesus. Can you imagine the impact that we would have as Christians, if all of us stood up strong and fought tenaciously for Christ? We’d run over the unbeliever, bring them to the realization that Christ is truly the name above every other name, the ONE to whom they must bow and acknowledge as Lord and Saviour!

But we must wake up, realize that things are in a truly terrible state, then get serious, let the Holy Spirit of Christ fill us up with His unmatched power, put on His spiritual armour and get out there and fight to the death for Him! That’s the only way we will lessen Satan’s power upon this fallen earth.

And the Lord in His wisdom has given us all the words and tools we need to do His will, amongst them are what we call our Thursday Blessings, so we can’t complain that He’s left us clueless and toolless. (smile) However, we have to invoke them, or declare (steups!!!) them out loud for them to take effect. So, let’s do that right now nuh, in strong and confident 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 having made those blessed pronouncements, it’s now our bounden duty to go out and help others, share those blessings with them just as generously as the Lord shared them with us, so they will want to come to Him and accept His easy yoke and light burden! Much LOVE?

…our duty is simple…fulfill the Great Commission…and though it’s not easy…God’s given us all we need to do it…

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8

Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 March 2022 Psalm 27:10.

09 Mar 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: a life with Jesus at the helm, a magnanimous promise, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him, because thou hast seen me, blessed are they that have not seen me, can a woman forget her suckling child, dead like doorposts, endure to the end, glory hallelujah, have compassion on the son of her womb, I am halfway home, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands, I will not forget thee, I'm not turning back, Jesus is our reason for living, Jesus is our source of survival, Like as a father pitieth his children, LOVE, my eyes are fixed straight ahead, my hands are fixed securely on the plough, only believe, put my finger into the print of the nails, reach hither thy finger and behold my hnads, reach hither thy hnad, see Christ in living colour, servanthood, sincere belief, so glad to be alive, thank God, the atonement of our sins, the breath of life is still flowing through me, the eternal security of God's people, the Lord pitieth them that fear him, the lord will take me up, the nail marks in Christ's hands, the One True God, the Son of man came not to be served, thou hast believed, thrust it into my side, to a glorious future with Jesus, to serve and give His life for a ransom, we need Jesus every minute of every day, Wednesday Wail, when I make up my jewels, when my father and mother forsake me, yet have believed

Psalm 27:10. When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up (take care of me).

Another bright sunshiny day on God’s great earth, with Jesus at the helm of our lives! Wow! What a mighty privilege my people! For as the song so rightly says, He’s our reason for living, He’s our source of survival, the One we look to when things and times are tough!

That’s why we need Jesus in the morning, in the evening, in the midnight hour, in fact every minute of every day we badly need Him, because He’s the only One who can lift us up when our souls and spirits are cast down, when we are forsaken and lost without a strong and trusted guide and a safe harbour to anchor in when the storms of life batter and bruise us.

And we cannot find a better promise than this magnificent one from Psalm 27 – The Lord is my light and my salvation – where Bruh David trustingly declares (chuh man!!!): ‘When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up (take care of me). (Ps. 27:10)

Now does any other supposed God offer such a magnanimous promise? Obviously not! Because they are dead like doorposts and thus don’t have the power to do it! But our wonderful living Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ indeed has the awesome power to do that, as well as any other promise He’s made! All glory and honour to the One True God my faithful brethren, He of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob!

Oh friends, that most reassuring promise of never leaving nor forsaking His people, was one promise that all the prophets down through the ages knew for certain and spoke of to all who would listen. And if you don’t believe me, let’s check out a few appropriate scriptures. And the first one is this famous verse from the prophet Isaiah, where he proclaims on the Lord’s behalf. ‘Can a woman forget her suckling (nursing) child, that she should not (and not have) compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven (engraved, inscribed) thee upon the palm of my hands; thy walls are continually before me.’ (Is. 49:15-16)

Oh what a blessed promise! For as the scholar’s say, that speaks to, ‘reveals the eternal security of the salvation of God’s people. They are inseparably united to Him.’ And we all know that inscribing of our lives in God’s palms was physically portrayed by the nail marks in Christ’s hands where He hung from the cross for our deliverance, the atonement, the payment for our abominable sins.

Remember when Thomas, one of Jesus’ disciples doubted that his fellow disciples had seen the risen Jesus, and refused to believe, saying unto them: ‘Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.’ (John 20:25) And we all know what happens when we doubt Jesus. He will prove us wrong.

Eight days later, He again shows up before the disciples, once more coming through the shut doors. This time Thomas is with them, and after saying ‘Peace be unto you,’ He accosts the doubting Thomas with these words. ‘Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless (unbelieving), but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen me, and yet have believed.’ (John 20:27-29)

Yes friends, it’s all about belief; belief in Jesus Christ, that He has done what He says, and can do what He promises! And we won’t see Christ in living colour until He comes back again, but based on His Word, we know that He is the indisputable One True God, who will never leave nor forsake us, and if we are wise, having heard His Word, we will put our total trust in Him. And yes, I know we meandered some, (smile) but it was absolutely necessary to ensure that we had some physical proof of God’s enormous caring and compassion, seen through the sacrifice of His Son Jesus on our behalf.

So, let’s go back to some of those scriptures on God’s eternal fatherly image. The prophet Malachi said it thus on the Lord’s behalf: ‘And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels (special treasure); and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.’ (Mal. 3:17)

Please note though my people, the last part there which specifies servanthood. It’s what Christ came to do, as He said to the disciples when they were striving as to who would be the greatest among them. ‘And whosoever will be chief (first) among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto (to be served), but to minister (serve) and to give his life a ransom for many.’ (Matt. 20:27-28)

Now that’s exactly what He also expects of His followers, and said it in plain terms after He washed the disciples’ feet. ‘For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.’ (John 13:15) And the truth is that no leader is worthy to be thus, until he or she can serve with a pure heart, or come under the authority of others without balking at the experience.

And the last scripture on God’s non-forsaking of His people comes from Psalm 103 – Thanksgiving for God’s mercy – more marvellously reassuring words from the pen of Bruh David, where he proclaims: ‘Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame (understands our constitution); he remembereth that we are dust.’ (Ps. 103:13-14)

Yes my fellow saints, the Lord remembers that He created us from the dust of the earth and thus we are somewhat frail and fragile, and not able to bear a whole lot of trials and tribulations on our own, so He comes to the aid of those who revere and honour Him through His One Son, Jesus Christ. It’s as simple as that! And for those of us who sincerely try to do it, let’s go home now, telling all and sundry about our blessed position in Christ Jesus, through our Wednesday Wail.

As one strong, sincere and determined voice: ‘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 yuh better believe that if we endure to the end, that future will be even more glorious than we can ever ask or imagine. So, let’s stand strong and endure to the end with Christ’s help my brethren! Much LOVE!

…only believe…only believe…that’s all it takes…sincere belief…

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8

SCRIP-BITS

Today’s Scrip-Bit 18 March 2022 Psalm 104:24.

Today’s Scrip-Bit 17 March 2022 Proverbs 3:5.

Today’s Scrip-Bit 16 March 2022 Isaiah 33:22.

Today’s Scrip-Bit 14 March 2022 Isaiah 33:22.

Today’s Scrip-Bit 13 March 2022 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

Today’s Scrip-Bit 12 March 2022 John 15:13.

Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 March 2022 Psalm 146:1.

Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 March 2022 John 14:15.

Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 March 2022 Psalm 27:10.

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