Hosea 9:7. The days of visitation are come, the days of recompense are come; Israel shall know it: the prophet is a fool, the spiritual man is mad, for the multitude of thine iniquity, and the great hatred.
Oh Friends, oh Friends, the ole fella’s alive and kicking! Well not kicking as powerfully as I would like, but kicking much better than I was yesterday morning at this time. The knee surgery seems to have been very successful. Would you believe that I have less pain now than before, even though the knee is all cut up? Either the Lord intervened miraculously, or the opiates were real good, or even both. (smile) Oh Friends, it was certainly a spiritually awakening day in my life! I remember lying on the hard, narrow operating room table, laughing and talking with the two nurses and two doctors and listening to some music in the background, then next thing I was waking up in Recovery, bright eyed and bushy tailed, like after a good rest. I don’t have a clue as to what went on in the O.R Room. Thank you medical staff. But what amazes me most Friends, is my total lack of worry or concern over the whole procedure. While my family was anxious and concerned, the ole fella never batted an eyelash in worry. I just wanted to get it over and done with. And surprisingly too, although I had almost a two hour wait above the appointed time, I didn’t even have a small fit. I was cool as a cucumber, not even praying as much as would possibly be expected; just standing strong and surrendering it all to the Lord. And even more heartening is that since I came home, after a short nap, I’ve been up and about, doing my usual do, obviously against my family’s desire, finally getting in the Christmas spirit, singing and munching on some Christmas goodies and generally making a nuisance of myself. (smile) But how to please people eh? When I’m cranky and miserable, they complain. Now that I’m joy filled in the Christian groove, they’re still complaining. Oh my people, all of that just shows and tells me that I’ve climbed another rung in the Christian maturity ladder. Wow! Please join me in a short prayer of thanksgiving. ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, your humble servants praise your Holy Name and offer plenty, plenty, plenty thanks for bringing the ole fella through this surgery so successfully. In particular for allowing me not to miss a beat in continuing to spread your Holy Word. We know that you answer the prayers of those who sincerely seek you, and I know it’s not my prayers alone that you answered yesterday, but also those of all who prayed for me. Oh Father, we sincerely thank you and bless your Holy Name, also asking that you continue to shower us with your mercy and blessings as we continue our efforts to further your kingdom. We humbly pray this in the righteous and victorious blood of your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen!’ And thank you too Friends, who prayed for me, because there’s usually a greater chance of success in numbers. But on a more serious note, it seems that the winter weather is still playing havoc in South Western Ontario, in the Sarnia area, near the U.S border with Detroit. A State of Emergency has been declared in that area, where Police and Emergency Medical Service staff are busy trying to rescue some 300 persons stranded on Highway 402 because of the extreme weather conditions. Even the relief people are having a hard time getting to the scene. In some places plows could not even clear the roads because of reduced visibility caused by the high winds, and many roads remain impassable. Oh Friends let’s pray for all those caught up in that emergency, for if you’ve never been stranded on a lonely, isolated road in a serious snow storm it can get very scary. It’s very easy to get lost or in a serious accident driving in poor visibility. And if you decide to pull over and stop, then you can have someone else run in to your vehicle, or run out of gas and just simply freeze to death in the vehicle. Getting out and trying to walk is possibly the worse thing you can do, for then you’ll definitely get lost and end up freezing to death in some snow bank or snow covered field. So Friends, although the snowy weather may seem romantic and adventurous, it’s no joking matter. I’ve had my fair share of escapades during my thirty odd years in the country and can testify that some have been real scary. Meanwhile out in Alberta, near Edmonton, wild forest fires are burning out of control, and on the West Coast, in Vancouver, the recent shooting of 10 people out there, near to the Mayor’s house, are being linked to gang violence erupting at a house party. Now if it’s not safe close to the Mayor’s residence, where is it safe eh? And on the East Coast of this great country of Canada, much rain and strong winds of up to 130 kms per hour are being forecasted for the early part of the week, another variant of the major storm hitting the U.S North East and Canada. Now Friends, those are only a few of the serious negative things happening within Canada. Can you then imagine the negative situations taking place over the entire world? Right now they surely do seem to outweigh the positive ones. Some of you are possibly even asking, what positive situations are there in our evil, warmongering, greedy, violent, oppressive world. Some of you are even thinking, like Hosea did, that ‘The days of visitations (punishment) are come, the days of recompense are come; Israel shall know it: the prophet is a fool, the spiritual man is mad (insane), for the multitude (greatness) of thine iniquity, and the great hatred (enmity).’ And you may be right. But Friends, there are positives in our world, positives that are much greater and more powerful than the negatives. And the first and foremost is that the Lord God Jehovah is still sitting on His throne in the high heavens, and He is still running things in the entire universe. And it’s of the utmost importance we believe that, for if we don’t, then all hope is lost. Another important and powerful positive is that our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who gave His innocent life as a sacrifice for our sins, is now sitting at His Father’s right hand, advocating on our behalf. And believe me Friends, there’s no better advocate in all the world than our Jesus! And to back it all up, we have the immense power of the Good Book, God’s infallible Word, which contains all His promises and His faithfulness in keeping those promises if we do His will. That’s a most wonderful positive too! So my people, despite all the evil and confusion currently reigning in our world, things are not completely hopeless, for once the Lord is in control, there’s abundant hope. We just have to believe, to have faith, to work and think positively in accordance with the scriptures, aided by the personal experiences we’ve had as believers. So please, let’s not allow all the negatives in our own lives and the world at large to get us down, because we know and hold the ONE trump card that can turn it all around in a moment; the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is His Name; Creator of the universe and all therein, the Great Provider and Safe Keeper. And Friends, it’s so beautiful and powerful to know that when we rest within His protection, no harm can come to us. Ah mih people, the Bit’s been a bit of a hodge podge, but it contains many essential truths, positive testimony and above all God’s unconditional LOVE, therefore it must be beneficial in many respects. (smile) Tomorrow, God willing, we’ll continue with it. Till then, please, let’s go forth in joy and peace to LOVE our God, SPREAD His Holy Word and LIVE our vibrant and energizing Faith. Much LOVE!…never lose HOPE…for while there is life…HOPE is always present…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 14 December 2010 Hosea 9:7
14 Dec 2010 Leave a comment
Today’s Scrip-Bit 13 December 2010 Hosea 9:7
13 Dec 2010 Leave a comment
Hosea 9:7. The days of visitation are come, the days of recompense are come; Israel shall know it: the prophet is a fool, the spiritual man is mad, for the multitude of thine iniquity, and the great hatred.
Oh Friends, the wind’s a blowing, and the snow’s a swirling madly around in it. But the worst part of this scenario is that it’s also Monday morning. Can you imagine the mess and confusion in this morning’s rush hour! Well there certainly won’t be much rushing, although some fools will still try to rush in this terrible weather. For those of you who don’t have to put up with this bad weather, you’d better give plenty thanks yes, for in the next few hours it will be total chaos on our roads! The term rush hour is a misnomer anyway, for there’s never anything rushed about it. A more appropriate term would be the crawl hour traffic, for the roads often resemble parking lots much more than busy highways. And so, with the weather set to assist Lucifer’s evil intentions through anger, road rage, frustration and lateness, today we desperately need the spiritual protection and adrenalin boost from our Monday Morning Battle Hymn. So let’s sing it with great gusto: ‘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 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!’ Unfortunately Friends, the way our world is speedily going downhill, we might just need our Battle Hymn every morning, rather than just on Mondays when we begin a new workweek, for everyday some new sign or form of craziness, strife and anger rears its ugly head. The latest madness being two bombs detonated in a busy downtown Stockholm shopping area, 300 metres apart within 15 minutes of each other, at Christmas time to boot. And this ostensibly because Sweden has about 500 troops with NATO in Afghanistan, and also religious recrimination re some unfavourable caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad done by a Swedish artist in 2007. Ah Friends, when and how is the nonsense going to end eh? Whoever said that religion was the opiate of the people must have been on some real good opiates himself (smile) for today religion is the main driving force behind much of the strife, anger, hatred, divisions, oppression and wars in our world. And the sad part is that these blatant, premeditative murderers, these foolish suicide bombers – we give them such nice, respectable names – are mostly poor, uneducated, out of work, brainwashed stooges being used by the evil, hypocritical higher ups to do their dirty work. Maybe Friends, like our Bit says: ‘The days of visitation (punishment) are come, the days of recompense are come; Israel shall know it: the prophet is a fool, the spiritual man is mad (insane), for the multitude (greatness) of thine iniquity, and the great hatred (enmity).’ Yes my people, maybe, just maybe, like Israel of old, we’re being punished for our great multitude of sins against Almighty God. The Lord promised to use Israel’s enemies to punish them, and maybe now He’s doing the same to us, who are supposed to be the remnant of Abraham, but who have unfortunately become more like the fruitful, spreading vine of Beelzebub. Wickedness is so rampant in all walks of life today that the Almighty must be shaking His head in dismay and wonder! But Friends, listen to Isaiah’s take on the subject, back in the day when the Lord’s anger was kindled against His chosen people. ‘Woe unto them that decree unrighteous decrees, and that write grievousness (misfortune) which they have prescribed. To turn aside (deprive) the needy from judgement (of justice), and to take away the right (what is right) from the poor of my people, that widows may be their prey, and that they may rob the fatherless! And what will ye do in the day of visitation (punishment), and the desolation which will come from far? To whom will ye flee for help? And where will ye leave your glory? Without me they shall bow down under (among) the prisoners, and they shall fall under (among) the slain. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand is stretched out still (in judgement).’ (Is.10:1-4) Oh my people, that is what happens to those in high office who pervert justice. Having abused their power, they will be eventually called to stand before the Lord in His judgement. And believe me Friends, His justice will not be pretty. So let’s all seriously consider our wicked ways and the retribution that will be meted out by God if we persist in them, and instead take hold of righteousness which will endear us to Him. More tomorrow on this topic. Till then, please walk safely, keeping the Lord always before you. Much LOVE!…the penalty for sin is death…but the reward for righteousness is eternal life…it’s your choice to make… P.S. Friends, please say a prayer for the ole fella, for today he’s going to have knee surgery, and every little prayer helps. (smile) Much LOVE!
Today’s Scrip-Bit 12 December 2010 Hebrews 4:1
12 Dec 2010 Leave a comment
Hebrews 4:1. Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.
Oh Friends, it’s another day in the life. Some of us may sing and dance with joy and enthusiasm this day, while others weep and mourn with tears and sorrow. But my brethren, whatever state we find ourselves in today, let’s not get too proud and arrogant over our victories, or too low and sad over our defeats, for both situations greatly tempt our faith. Let’s try to maintain a sensible balance of humility, patience, hope and faith in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, whom God, unasked, out of His great LOVE for us, sacrificed Him for our sins. Oh my people, it’s the greatest act of LOVE ever conceived and ever manifested, and therefore deserves our undying gratitude! That means we should always be on the lookout for the ever- present danger of unbelief, which can crop up in many shapes and forms, in many different unsuspecting circumstances and catch us off guard. Consequently, the author of Hebrews found it necessary to warn his readers, that includes us: ‘Let us therefore fear, lest a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.’ Yes Friends, it’s very important that we pay serious attention to our spiritual lives, lest we should forfeit that promise of Jesus to enter into a rest of eternal life with Him. And the writer of Hebrews continues: ‘For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said.’ (Heb.4:2-3) Friends, please, let’s ensure we don’t fall into that trap, where we hear the gospel of Christ, but it doesn’t benefit us because we lack the necessary faith to believe it and put it into practice. For those who truly believe enter into His rest. But those who don’t…well crapaud smoke them pipe! And to effectively make that point, in Hebrews 3, the writer uses the analogy of Israel’s disbelief and disobedience under Moses, and thus were left destitute and wandering in the wilderness, and he quotes Psalm 95:7-11 to prove his reasoning. ‘Wherefore as the Holy Ghost saith, Today if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation (rebellion), in the day of temptation (trial) in the wilderness. When your fathers tempted (tested) me, proved me, and saw my works forty years. Wherefore I was grieved (angry) with that generation, and said, They do always err (go astray) in their heart; and they have not known my ways. So I sware in my wrath, they shall not enter into my rest. Take heed brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.’ (Heb.3:7-13) Oh my brethren, it’s essential that we don’t fall in to the same trap that the Israelites did. And it’s so much easier to do today with all the enticing worldly, ungodly things that are forever swirling around us. That’s why we also need to encourage each other daily and to pay careful attention to what we watch, read, listen to and participate in, because Lucifer is a sly, sneaky devil, who likes to instil his evil spirit in our souls bit by bit, so that we’re not consciously aware of it. Until one day, we suddenly and sadly discover that we’ve seriously drifted away from the things of God, and are worshipping at the altar of Beelzebub, which will mean losing out on entering into the rest of Jesus, and instead, spending eternity with Lucifer in Hades. And believe me Friends, there’s no fate worse than that! For though Lucifer’s stuff looks great here on earth, in the after life it will be rotten and rusty garbage. Therefore, to help us refrain from making such a colossal mistake, let’s look at a few passages of scripture that hopefully will galvanize us to stay true to the Most High God Jehovah and our eternal faith in His sacrificial Son Jesus. Hear Bruh Paul to the Corinthians: ‘Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray (implore) you in Christ’s stead (behalf), be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.’ (2 Cor.5:20-21) Yes my people, having received the Spirit of Christ, we ought to act as His ambassadors, as His representatives here on earth. That means doing things He approves of. And Bruh Paul continues: ‘We then as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.’ (2 Cor.6:1) In other words, being spiritually born again is not sufficient for a true believer. We also need to put Jesus’ spiritual values to good practical use in the world. Then in Galatians 5, when talking about living by faith, Bruh Paul faithfully declares: ‘Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do (obligated to keep) the whole law. Christ is become of no effect unto you (You have become estranged from Christ), whosoever of you are (attempt to be) justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit (eagerly) wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by LOVE.” (Gal.5:1-6) Pay attention Friends; the law, legalism, can do nothing for us when it comes to salvation and eternal life, they only keep us in bondage to man made things. Faith (spiritual belief) in and through Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation and everlasting life. And finally, the author of Hebrews admonishes us, re disobedience: ‘Follow (pursue) peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. Looking diligently lest any man fail (fall short) of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.’ (Heb.12:14-15) Yes my people, please pay particular attention to that ‘root of bitterness,’ for bitterness starts out by being hidden and spreading its disgusting roots in secret, so by the time we discover it, it’s already spread like a cancer through our bodies, hearts, souls and minds, creating very disastrous consequences. Oh Friends, I certainly hope these passages of scripture will sink into our consciousness and keep us from losing out on the greatest gifts ever bestowed on mankind; salvation and eternal life through belief and faith in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Much LOVE!…JESUS…truly the way, the truth and the life…no man can come to the Father…except through Him…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 December 2010 Joel 1:3
11 Dec 2010 Leave a comment
Joel 1:3. Tell ye your children of it, and let your children tell their children, and their children another generation.
Oh Friends, I wasn’t even planning to mention any of the negative occurrences that have happened in our world this past week, but after the Spirit led me to our Bit, I realized I had to say something about them because they are all things we should enlighten our children on. And to name just a few of our world problems; let’s start with the political unrest and violence in Haiti due to perceived corrupt and unfair elections. Then look at the students rioting in staid Britain, London in particular, because their school fees have been tripled by the new coalition government preaching severe cutbacks of pensions and benefits, but also drastic increases in taxes and other fees. Closer to home, in Ontario, we’re still investigating police brutality from the G20 Conference, and the secretly passed, illegal and possibly unconstitutional law to give police unnatural powers of arrest during the conference. We’re also dealing with normal, everyday police brutality in Ottawa, the nation’s capital, where their Chief has promised to resign. But not so ours in Toronto, who oversaw a rash of police brutality and innocent arrest and detentions during the catastrophic G20 time. He’s only been hemming and hawing about lack of identification of the rogue cops. But he’s finally been given some faces and names. Let’s see what he’ll do about it now. Why are our leaders nowadays so stupid eh mih people? Police relations with the public were already bad enough before that G20 fiasco, then you try to sweep it under the carpet. What do you think the public perception is going to be now eh? And moving from one abuse of power to another, we come to China’s pettiness, re the Nobel Peace Prize for one of their jailed dissidents. They’ve been flexing their muscles, threatening severe repercussions to any countries that send representatives to the ceremony in Norway. Steups! Another autocratic government wanting to dominate other people’s lives, but won’t tolerate any outside interference in theirs. What else is new though? Oh, then we have the friends of Julian Assange, the WikiLeaks founder, hacking into the Internet workings of major players like MasterCard and Pay Pal, because they stopped collecting donations for WikiLeaks. They don’t want the Net to be controlled by anybody or any corporation, but sadly they don’t seem to understand that if it’s not controlled to some extent, we’ll all suffer for it eventually. We’re all so caught up in the freedom thing that we fail to realize that sensible freedom is only possible when there are controls, else we’d all be running amok. We won’t even mention the terrible weather in many parts of Europe, or their sad economic plight, or the continuing wars and tension in the Middle East, or the escalating tension between North and South Korea. And what about the foolish Australian politico, who claims that Assange is not to blame for the WikiLeaks disclosures, but the poor security of the U.S and the person, assumed to be an American citizen, who stole the information. Oh Friends, in this great world of ours today, everybody wants to do their own thing their way, but sadly nobody wants to accept blame for it when it pans out badly. And just as Joel warned the Israelites to: ‘Tell ye your children of it, and let your children tell their children, and their children another generation,’ referring to the locust plague that devastated Judah, we must also teach our children about the stupidity and ignorance of hatred and anger, war and strife, and worst of all, separation from the Holy God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Oh my people, we all know that much of our disaster filled world is directly due to our turning away from the Most High God Jehovah, as the twin states of Judah and Israel did in their early years and were severely punished for their disobedience. They refused to listen to several warnings from several prophets sent to them by the Lord. And don’t be surprised Friends, for we’re doing the same thing. It seems that when prosperity set’s in, we get a li’l too cock-sure and overconfident, thinking that it’s been all our doing, foolishly and /or conveniently forgetting the grace, mercy, forgiveness and LOVE of our God, without which we cannot function. Oh Friends, it’s our bounden duty to not only teach our progeny the good ways of life as opposed to the bad, but also to live those good ways; show them a godly example. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem as though we’ve done such a good job, for a rather large number of our young people are wrongly, but enthusiastically flocking to the worldly things and fleshly lusts of Lucifer’s evil world. That should give us all great cause for concern, for as I keep saying, if this is the state of our world now, what will become of it two generations hence? Oh Friends, there’s nothing more to be said, because we all know our responsibilities, and it’s obvious that we have not been good stewards of all that the Lord has entrusted us with. So we’ll close with some encouraging words from a contemplation of Asaph, Psalm 78; A reminder of God’s goodness to Israel, and also to us, in these crazy, tumultuous times. ‘Give ear (listen), O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old (speak obscure sayings or riddles): Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, showing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done. For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children: That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children. That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments: And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright (did not prepare its heart), and whose spirit was not steadfast with God.’ (Ps.78:1-8) My people, it’s not too late to turn the tide. But we have to be very serious about it and begin NOW, for who knows how long we have before the whole thing blows up in our faces. With the Lord’s help we can certainly do it, so let’s repent, ask for His help and get on it right away nuh! Much LOVE!…the children are our future…so let’s teach them right…let’s teach them to pray…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 December 2010 1 John 2:15
10 Dec 2010 Leave a comment
1 John 2:15. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the LOVE of the Father is not in him.
Oh Friends, I hear and see you all jumping, singing and shouting: ‘TGIF, TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday!’ But hang on a minute nuh, don’t get too carried away, for remember Friday is just starting, you still have to go out and labour today. (smile) However, to help us do that, let’s chant our Friday Chant with much verve and gusto. ‘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.’ And hopefully the heavy snowfall promised for the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) happens mostly on the weekend when there’s not that much traffic on the roads. But coming to think of it, that’s certainly not as true as it was just a few years ago. Now everyday, Saturday and Sunday included, the roads are jammed packed with traffic. Where’s everybody going? I don’t know. And the trouble is that they’re rushing around madly just like during the week. I guess this Christmas season will only intensify the mad rush, for a lot of it has to with our Bit: ‘Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the LOVE of the Father is not in him.’ Yes Friends, a lot of that weekend traffic consists of those who are foolishly in love with the world and its evil, deceptive things. That’s why they’re on the road; they’re going to indulge themselves in some worldly or fleshly lust. And as John continues after the Bit: ‘For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.’ (1 John 2:16-17) Oh Friends, those words are so true that they’re frightening! Pride, evil lusts and desires are so much a part of our world today that it boggles the imagination. Unfortunately my people, those ungodly things now rule our world, and and we all know that they should not. Where and why have we gone wrong? Bruh Paul wrote thus to the Galatians: ‘Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ. who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world (age), according to the will of God and our Father: To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.’ (Gal.1:3-5) Oh my brethren, Christ died for us, sacrificed His Holy, Innocent, Righteous self for us on that infernal cross so that we could be free from sin. And two thousand years later, what are we doing? Wallowing with glee and pleasure in that same sin; like pigs wallow contentedly in mud! What a crying shame my people! Our sinful, ungodly behaviour is making a mockery of Jesus’ sacrificial death. If we’re content to wallow in the proud, sinful desires and lusts of this world, then Jesus might have been much better of staying in heaven where He belonged, and was surely much more appreciated. Our evil behaviour certainly doesn’t say much about the reverence, respect and LOVE that we have for Jesus and the Father, otherwise we wouldn’t be so involved in the wicked affairs of the world. Oh Friends, please listen closely to James as he tells us what is what. Like Bruh Paul, he doesn’t mince words here. In fact the times are so evil now, that they definitely are not conducive to mincing words. ‘Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of (with) the world is enmity with God? whoso- ever therefore will (wants to) be a friend of the world is the (makes himself an) enemy of God. Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy (yearns jealously)? But he giveth more grace. wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh (near) to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye doubleminded. Be afflicted (lament), and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness (gloom). Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.’ (James 4:4-10) And all God’s people bowed their heads and said a quiet Amen. Why? Because they were ashamed. Their hearts and consciences had outed them, shown them up for what they truly were; lovers of the world and all it’s fleshly lusts and desires. Oh Friends, the only way to overcome this shameful behaviour is to repent before God, and ask Him to mercifully cleanse our hearts, souls and minds of any behaviour that’s unpleasing to Him, then help us to stay steadfast and strong on the true, but rather narrow path which leads to Him. My people, if we’re too in love with the world, then it’s time to stop RIGHT NOW! Hopefully we all know the state of our hearts and what evil lurks there. And if we’re not sure, please petition God to show us it immediately so that we can repent and change before it’s too late. My people, we’ll close with a verse of scripture that dates way back when, but which is still very applicable today. Our God is speaking through His servant Moses: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt LOVE the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.’ (Deut.6:4-5) Oh Friends, He didn’t say anything about loving the world with the passion we do today. It’s Him, our God, that we must LOVE passionately. Please, let’s stop loving the world and start LOVING our God instead nuh. Only then will we be set free from the fleshly lusts and emotions of this evil world.. Much LOVE!…remember…in this evil world…all that glitters is not gold…but is mostly brass plated…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 December 2010 1 John 2:15
09 Dec 2010 Leave a comment
1 John 2:15. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the LOVE of the Father is not in him.
A blessed Thursday to all you Friends and believers, wherever you are in this evil ungodly world! Greetings from the Most High God Jehovah, who has looked down with concern and dismay on the afflictions of His earthly children. He has seen them abused, suppressed, oppressed, persecuted and killed all because of their great faith in Him. And believe me people, His heart is heavy, but unfortunately we’ve got to follow the plan He put in place long ago; sending His only Son Jesus to die for our disgusting sins, so that whoever believed in Him would be gracefully granted the gift of salvation, which would eventually lead to eternal life with our Triune God. And don’t you think the Father knows that we’ll all encounter some rough times down here? He sure does. And so does Jesus, our Saviour, Advocate, etc. etc. Jesus knows it from first hand experience down here on earth, for He endured such hardship down here that most of us will never even come close to undergoing. So Friends, when the trials and tribulations of this world beset us, both before and behind, please don’t give up or give in. Please take solace in the thought that our heavenly Father knows and sees all, and in His time will reward us for our steadfast faith in His Son Jesus, and will exact the necessary vengeance from the wicked followers of Beelzebub. That means we truly don’t have much to worry about, just mainly keeping ourselves as free and unspotted from the world as possible. As John so rightly says in our Bit: ‘Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any many love the world, the LOVE of the Father is not in him.’ And I didn’t capitalize all the ‘loves’ because I don’t think that ‘love’ for the world should be lifted up, much less compared to or placed on the same pedestal as the Father’s LOVE. Anyway Friends, the reasoning behind John’s directive is simple; loving the world and the things in it are a curse, anathema to the believer’s soul. It leads us to all kinds of wrongdoing, idol worshipping and things that don’t gel with Jesus’ directives, His bright and eternal future for us. He came to earth and died for us, so that we could be released from the darkness of this evil world. Consequently, being enamoured of the world and its things will only return us to the sinful darkness that Jesus died so innocently and sacrificially to release us from. In other words, we’d be making a mockery of Jesus’ terrible death on the cross. It would have been a waste of time, all for nought. And that my Friends, is one thing we certainly cannot afford to let happen! Listen to Bruh Paul put it in his blunt, to the point manner: ‘I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable (rational) service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.’ (Rom.12:1-2) Yes Friends, once that Holy Spirit comes to live in us, we need to change our entire lives, our entire way of thinking, talking and doing; forsaking the world and all the tempting temptations it holds, and accepting instead the grace, mercy, forgiveness and spiritual salvation wrought so dearly for us by Jesus’ ransomed death. Bruh Paul broke it down further for the Ephesians: ‘If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation (conduct) according to the deceitful lusts; And be ye renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place (an opportunity) to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice. And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.’ (Eph.4:21-32) Oh Friends, I never intended to print all of that, but as I read it through, looking for an appropriate place to stop, I couldn’t find any, because everything there deals with being a new person in Christ, with putting away the old things of the world. The Spirit also seemed to agree, since He raised no dissenting voice. And sometimes too, we need more than just a general reminder of a particular doctrine, we need more individual do’s and don’ts to help up us actually and faithfully put it into practice. That’s what this section of Bruh Paul’s letter to the Ephesians does; it provides us with useful, everyday pointers of the kind of behaviour we ought to refrain from and the kind we must embrace, if we want to become true believers. And as you can imagine, it has used up all of our space and time, so we’ll continue this very important topic tomorrow, God willing of course. Although I don’t see why He would object, since we’re only trying to LOVE our God, LIVE our Faith, and SPREAD His Word. Till tomorrow then, keep in good standing with the Lord, and He will bless all your endeavours. Much LOVE!…through rose tinted glasses…the world certainly looks deceptively beautiful…but to the naked eye…its real ugliness and deceptiveness is revealed…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 8 December 2010 Luke 4:43
08 Dec 2010 Leave a comment
Luke 4:43. And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent.
Oh Friends, it’s finally dawned on me that winter is here. Yes people, the little snow and the dire cold of the last few days, made even worse by strong, cold February and March like winds, finally woke me from my reverie. And what’s worse is the promise of lots of snow this weekend, comparable to what’s now gripping the city of London, some seventy odd miles down the road. They are certainly having a rough go of it. Can’t dig themselves out fast enough, before they’re inundated with more snow. Let’s pray for them Friends in their time of need. Perhaps I could do like Jesus, when they asked Him to stay in Capernaum: ‘And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent.’ However, I’ll have to move to somewhere warm, with no snow and cold icy winds. (smile) Jesus though didn’t move out of the area, He went around preaching in other cities of Galilee. As Matthew describes it: ‘And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness (every sickness) and all manner of disease (every disease) among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers (various) diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils (demons), and those which were lunatic (epileptics), and those that had the palsy (were paralyzed); and he healed them. And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judea, and from beyond Jordan.’ (Matt.4:23-25) And according to the scholars, Jesus’ Galilean ministry was a very significant feat, since no prophet had arisen in Israel for over four hundred years. Then suddenly that silence was broken by the proclamation of the Gospel, the Good News of God’s kingdom, by John the Baptist and Jesus. The people must have felt relieved to hear something good and promising after all those years of silence. But yuh know Friends, if there’s only one thing we can learn from Jesus, let it be His strong, steadfast dedication to the job He was sent to do, as our Bit shows. He knew that he was only on earth for a short period and during that time had to get His message as far and wide as possible. That’s why he never stayed in one place for too long, especially after hearing that John the Baptist had been imprisoned. That meant He was the only one then going around preaching: ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand (near): repent ye, and believe (in) the gospel.’ (Mark 1:15) We also see Jesus’ dedication to His mission after talking to the Samaritan woman at the well. When His disciples brought Him food and told Him to eat, His reply was: ‘I have meat (food) to eat that ye know not of.’ (John 4:32) This made the disciples wonder if someone else had brought Him food while they were away foraging for some. But Jesus passionately informed them: ‘My meat (food) is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.’ (John 4:34) Though Jesus had to consume some physical food to stay alive as a human, He considered the sacred mission entrusted to him by His Father much more important than food for the body. The winning of souls for His Father acted like spiritual food for His own soul and took first place in His life. Oh my brethren, do we take our work for Jesus as seriously as He took His for His Father? I certainly hope so. We obviously can’t come up to Jesus’ work ethic, but we can surely strive for excellence in all matters, as he desires of His followers. Now listen as Matthew further describes the situation when Jesus went around teaching and healing in Galilee. ‘But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted (were weary), and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.’ (Matt.9:36-38) Yes Friends, Jesus was filled with compassion for the great number of lost humans, wandering forlornly like sheep without a shepherd. This brings us to the very important question: Do we have compassion on those who are sick, weary, tired and lost? Our answer ought to be an instant affirmative. If not, then we’re not following in Jesus’ footsteps. And Friends, please note, as He told the disciples that the harvest was great but only a few reapers to gather it, that very same situation, if not a worse one, also exists today. There are millions of unbelievers out there in the evil, mixed up world, who have never heard of Jesus, but sadly, only a few, a miniscule amount in comparison, to bring them to Him, to repentance and salvation. We are now those labourers Jesus spoke of my people. Our job is to go out there into the plenteous fields of the evil and ungodly and harvest them for Him. But to do that successfully we need to be strong, steadfast and serious about the job He has entrusted to us, just like He was in doing the Father’s will. And I know that some of you wondered what yesterday’s sermon (smile) had to do with the Bit. But Friends, I’m here to tell us that it had everything to do with it. For it reflected our lack of doing Jesus’ work by letting the evil minions of Lucifer demean and desecrate the Holy Birth of Jesus and the great spiritual awakening it stands for. We allowed them to minimize its significance so that now many have no idea, much less proper regard for the true value of Christmas. So don’t think it was just some rant from the Holy Spirit through me. It was taking all of us to task, for we had not fulfilled our jobs as true labourers in reaping the harvest of unbelievers. Instead, we allowed the plentiful harvest to stay and rot in the fields, making it very fertile ground for Lucifer and his evil cohorts. And I hope we are ashamed and truly repentant for our lack of diligence in harvesting the significant crop of ripe unbelievers. And now, having seen how Jesus put His hand to the plough and never looked back, I hope that we will be much more aware of our duty and perform it in a much more diligent manner. Oh Friends, if we don’t up the ante, and do much better than we’ve done, then we’ll be letting Jesus down, sadly disappointing Him. And one thing He made sure of, was not to disappoint His Father. He carried out His mission with flying colours! Let’s try to do the same with ours nuh. And I just LOVE it when we are able to close with Jesus’ words on any topic. Hear these now, and let them bring light to out hearts, souls and minds, my brethren. ‘I must work the works of him who sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.’ (John 9:4-5) Please remember Friends, we are now entrusted to be the light of the world, so let’s go out and be such. Till we meet again, God in favour, please walk safely with Him. Much LOVE!…let your light so shine before men…that they may see your good works…and glorify your Father which is in heaven…(Matt.5:16)
Today’s Scrip-Bit 7 December 2010 Luke 4:43
07 Dec 2010 Leave a comment
Luke 4:43. And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent.
Happy Tuesday Friends! Let’s celebrate that our names are not in the obits today, and say a rousing, ‘Thank you Lord!’ Well the Christmas Season is hard upon us, only another 18 shopping days (including today) till Christmas. But isn’t it interesting, though sad, that our countdown to that most joyful and spiritual day of the year is done in the worldly realm of shopping days, rather than with something spiritual? That just goes to show how much the season has turned away from truly celebrating Christ’s birth to the buying and giving of material things. Ah Friends, I’m sorry for those of you whose Christmas shopping isn’t done yet. Fortunately mine is! (smile) And I’m not being facetious, sarcastic or any such thing, because I’ve simply cut out the nonsense over the last few years. I refuse to join the crazy hordes of Christmas shoppers rushing and pushing, so I either give money or gift certificates. You go and do whatever you want with them. And this year it’s even worse; no way am I going traipsing through malls with my bad knees. Oh my people, it’s nice to give and receive presents, but when the material values of the season are far outweighing its spiritual significance, it’s time to start cutting back and re-evaluating our priorities. And it’s just becoming worse with the cultural changes, where Happy Holidays is being put forth as the seasonal greeting by mamby pamby fools who claim they don’t want to embarrass or annoy other religions. Chuh! What foolishness! What’s the purpose of the holidays eh? What holidays are we celebrating? It’s all due to the Birth of Jesus Christ! Without that splendiferous event, there would be no happy holidays in December! And we won’t get into the argument about whether Christ was really born in December. That’s just become the normal time to celebrate it. Oh Friends, do you think you can stop the Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists or Jews from saying Happy whatever they’re celebrating because it makes Christians uncomfortable? Certainly not! Especially in Muslim countries where you can’t even think of Christ, much less mention Him. Steups! But what’s supposed to be Christian land is pushing aside Christian faith and ideals to please other religions who have no intention of reciprocating, but instead are bent on and seriously working towards world hegemony. Oh my fellow Christians, please wake up now and smell the roses else soon there won’t be any at all to see, much less smell! We’re on the losing end right now for allowing all this nonsense to happen. Do you know that Christianity is the most persecuted religion in the world today; that approximately 75% of religious persecution is directed against Christians? Yuh see how they shoot up a whole lot recently in Baghdad? In church to boot, with no recriminations whatsoever! And one day soon I have some other startling statistics to share on the persecution situation. It only seems that we have religious freedom in the West, for in the North, East and South, Christians are suffering terribly simply because of their faith, especially in the Muslim, Communist and Militarily ruled countries. And don’t be fooled Friends, for the trend has begun in the West too, albeit more subtly with the removal of God and the Bible from our schools, public and government places. Oh Friends, don’t you find it disgusting and pathetic that as soon as you say something, voice an opinion that’s not politically correct re a person or group nowadays, you’re quickly labelled anti this or anti that? The supposed freedom of free speech and thought are quickly thrown out the window. But in all the foolish furor and haste to placate and please those of different religions and cultures, who are blatantly ungrateful and often hostile towards their host country, have you ever heard anybody say or use the term anti-Christian? Not on your life! Because it sure seems okay to blame, belittle and cry down Christianity, the religion that built the great countries that everyone now wants to emigrate to today. Ah Lord eh! And truthfully my people, a lot of the blame lies with us for being so passive and allowing all that nonsense to happen. And if we supposed Christians don’t get up off our fat and lazy fannies very soon and do something about the untenable situation, in a few years we’ll be in the minority in the West too, and somewhere down the line, Christianity will either be outlawed and/or seriously persecuted like it was in the beginning, and still is in many parts of the world. Oh Friends, this Christmas Season, let’s wake up from our prosperity induced reverie and begin to reclaim what’s rightfully ours nuh! Yuh see that even the prosperity is disappearing now! And that’s mainly because we have turned away from the Lord God Jehovah and upped the worshiping of man-made idols and sinful fleshly lusts! We claim that Jesus is the greatest, and so He is, so why aren’t we, His followers, seriously building Him and His Church up eh, instead of letting others denigrate, despise and abuse His Holy Name? Ah mih people, just like we’ve gotten fat and lazy in our economic and technological advancement, we’ve gotten fat and lazy in our religious observance. We mouth a lot of empty platitudes, but when it comes down to the nitty gritty, of getting our hands and feet dirty by putting those platitudes into action, we’re nowhere to be found. As I keep saying Friends, the biggest drawback to Christianity is our constant refusal to walk our big talk. Consequently, others don’t take us as seriously as they should, and many rightly consider us hypocrites, since many of us behave like the Pharisees and Sadducees of old, whom Jesus took to task on several occasions for not practicing what they preached. Oh Friends, what’s our nations coming to when children are asked at school to write stories on the Christmas season, but without any mention of Christmas, God or Jesus? It’s a crying shame, but many of today’s children think that Christmas, or to be politically correct, the Holidays, is simply a time for shopping, gift giving, eating and drinking. They have absolutely no clue of the true reason for the celebration. And if WE allow them to grow up like that, eventually the real reason for this wonderful season, the joyous Birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ will have been irretrievably lost. Please, please, I beg and implore us: DON’T ALLOW CHRIST TO BE TAKEN OUT OF CHRISTMAS! Oh Friends, I really don’t know how I came to write this stuff. It certainly wasn’t planned, but once I got into it, it just took on a life of its own. I guess the Spirit felt that certain truths needed to be spelled out, because as a group we’ve gotten too comfortable in our sedentary lifestyle, and are not even being reactive, much less pro-active, as we’re supposed to be. I know some of you might not like, appreciate or agree with what I’ve said, but believe me people, it’s the gospel truth! And furthermore my people, it’s high time we stop allowing ourselves to be pushed around, backed into some uncomfortable corner by ungodly evildoers. It’s time to start pushing back, and forcefully too! That is if you want your great grandchildren to be born in a Christian land with working Christian values and Christ, the Head of it all. Nuff said! Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Much LOVE!…it’s time for all believers to seriously…LOVE Their God…LIVE Their Faith…and SPREAD The Word…in other words…it’s time to…seriously WALK OUR TALK…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 6 December 2010 Psalm 102:27
06 Dec 2010 Leave a comment
Psalm 102:27. But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end.
Alas Friends, it’s Monday! Unfortunately, that means another round of serious confrontation with Lucifer and his evil cohorts in the ensuing titanic workweek struggle. (smile) However, since our Leader, Jesus is a general of unparalleled genius with scores of victories to His Name, the eventual outcome of this long running war is not in doubt. The forces of Christ will prevail if we stand shoulder to shoulder and fight the good fight of faith under His most excellent guidance and direction. He’s laid out the rules of engagement, and if, like good, trusty foot soldiers, we follow them, then victory is guaranteed. And to help us get ready for this week’s initial encounter, let’s all sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn with great gusto and much confidence. All together now: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know that 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 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 Jesus, having inspected His army, and finding it exceptional, raised His mighty sword, the Good Book, pointed it towards the enemy and cried out: ‘Charge!’ And all God’s people went forward in orderly droves, shoulder to shoulder, fully dressed in spiritual armour, filled with confidence, to confront the ungodly hordes. Yes Friends, that’s how we ought to go out everyday to meet the enemy; armed, armoured, confident and dangerous! But we can only do that if we believe the psalmist’s words in our Bit: ‘But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end.’ And that’s the gospel truth my people! Many people have staked their character, reputation, integrity and even their lives upon the steadfast, unchangeable nature of our God. Hear the psalmist earlier on: ‘My days are like a shadow that declineth; and I am withered like grass. But thou, O Lord, shall endure for ever; and thy remembrance unto all generations.’ (Ps.102:11-12) Now listen to that great man of vision and faith, Isaiah, re the final restoration of Israel: ‘Who hath wrought and done it, calling the generations from the beginning? I the Lord, the first, and with the last; I am he.’ (Is..41:4) Isaiah was so adamant about that fact that later on, in talking about the Lord, the only redeemer, he again reminds his people: ‘Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no saviour.’ (Is.43:10-11) Yes Friends, please remember that: there is no other being in existence worthy of the name God, but the Lord God Jehovah; the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Any others claiming deity are all pretenders, with no might, power, wisdom, mercy, forgiveness and unconditional LOVE like our God. He spoke the heavens, the earth and the seas into existence. Is there any other being capable of such awesome works? Or is there any who can mould man from the dust of the earth, then breathe life and a soul into him? Certainly not my brethren! Only our God can do those miraculous things! Now hear some interesting words from the prophet Malachi, when talking of the coming day of judgement and the paying of tithes: ‘For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.’ (Mal..3:6) Oh my people, only because our God doesn’t change, in that He LOVED the people back then, and He still LOVES us, that we all have not been completely destroyed for our continual iniquity. The author of Hebrews, whoever he was, also understood that truth when he declared: ‘Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and for ever.’ (Heb.13:8) Meanwhile, James puts it thus: ‘Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness (variation) neither shadow of turning. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.’ (James 1:17-18) And all God’s people joyfully shouted: ‘Thank you Lord! We LOVE You and praise Your Holy Name!’ Yes Friends, that sure is encouraging, for all us redeemed are the ‘firstfruits’ of God, in that we are the first step in God’s redemption of all His creation. Now that is surely something to be thankful for! And re the scholars; since all changes are for better or worse, God is unchanging because He is perfect and cannot get better or become worse. Furthermore, only an omnipotent, all-knowing, unchangeable God could lay out such a long term plan to bring His sinful, disobedient children back under His protective, ever-LOVING wings. And since we like to close with some definitive words of Jesus on our topics whenever possible, listen up. He couldn’t get any more definitive than when He proudly proclaims: ‘I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.’ (Rev.22:13) Please Friends, let’s read those words carefully and inwardly digest them. They will serve as a secure foundation for our faith. Till next time, God in favour, go safely with Him. Much LOVE!…our great God…yesterday…today…forever the same…unchanging…thus reliable and dependable…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 5 December 2010 Ecclesiastes 3:1
05 Dec 2010 Leave a comment
Ecclesiastes 3:1. To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.
Oh Friends, our great and gracious God has seen fit to grant us another magnificent day on His spectacular creation, Planet Earth! And all God’s people shouted: ‘Thank you Lord!’ So what are we going to do with it eh? How are we going to use that wonderful gift? I’d humbly like to suggest that we make the most of it by being obedient to the Lord, by doing His will; by serving others like Jesus did when He was here on earth, by spreading the good news; Jesus’ gospel and the Father’s awesome, unconditional LOVE for all of us. Oh my people, that all boils down to living a life that honours and glorifies God in the eyes of men, so that they too will long for salvation and the guidance and power of His Holy Spirit. In other words Friends, the best way to spend today, in fact all our days on planet earth is in furthering God’s kingdom. Our knowledgeable Bit states that: ‘To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.’ And as we saw yesterday, Cousin Sol lists a number of things that fall under that banner. (Eccl.3:2-8) But my people, the important thing to note is that whatever we’re doing, whatever act in which we’re engaged, the eventual purpose should always be the furthering, the enlarging, the spreading of God’s Word and His earthly kingdom, for that’s our main purpose on this earth as specified by Jesus in His final words to the disciples. ‘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.28:19-20) Yes Friends, that’s our job down here. And as Cousin Sol so rightly reminds us: ‘I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose (every matter in which one delights) and for every work.’ (Eccl.3:17) Yes my people, Cousin Sol is sure that there’s also a time for judgement and justice. We’d better believe it too, and continue or start living right, otherwise things will be real sad for us when that time of justice arrives and we’re judged guilty by the Master. Unfortunately Friends, there will be no recourse, no appeal to any Higher Power, since there’s none. So it’s very advisable to repent NOW, and get in good with God before it’s too late. Remember, He can call us home to Him at any time. So please heed these words of Cousin Sol: ‘What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth? I have seen the travail (task or endeavour), which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it (with which to be occupied). He hath made everything beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world (eternity) in their heart, so (except) that no man can find out the work that God maketh (does) from the beginning to the end.’ (Eccl.3:9-11) Oh Friends, God has given us tasks to keep us occupied here on earth, which He’s filled with beauty. He’s also placed a longing in us for both earthly knowledge and understanding of eternal things, but our quest for that knowledge and eternal understanding is frustrating, limited as we are by our mortal and finite limitations. So all we can do, as Cousin Sol further declares: ‘I know that there is no good in them (nothing better for them), but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life. And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.’ (Eccl.3:12-13) That’s so true my Friends! But here’s another useful idea on the topic of a time for everything. I guess that many of us first became aware, or fully aware of our Bit from the song by the British band, the Byrds, several decades ago, during the time now referred to as the British Invasion, when British bands were conquering the world like their colonizing fathers before them. The name of the song was ‘Turn, Turn, Turn.’ Now if we can only remember how the song goes. (smile) ‘To everything- turn, turn, turn. There is a season- turn, turn, turn. And a time for every purpose under heaven. A time to be born, a time to die. A time to plant, a time to reap. A time to kill, a time to heal. A time to laugh, a time to weep. To everything- turn, turn, turn. There is a season- turn, turn, turn. And a time for every purpose under heaven.’ I won’t write all the lyrics, but there are three other verses with the chorus after each. The persons who put the song together obviously edited the scripture passage to suit their own purposes, but the main theme is still there, and it is a great way to remember this important Bit of the Good Book. Awright Holy Spirit, please accept my humble apology: ALL of the Good Book IS important. The Holy Spirit took umbrage with my cavalier treatment of the Good Book’s contents. (smile) But seriously though Friends, when times get rough, humming the song can be a good influence, to remind you that there’s a time for everything, that those rough times will pass and good ones will come, for everything turns around eventually. And we’ll close with the last verse from the song: ‘A time to gain, a time to lose. A time to rend, a time to sow. A time to LOVE, a time to hate. A time of peace, I swear it’s not too late.’ And that’s the gospel truth my people! It’s definitely not too late, so let’s get out there and work hard for peace and LOVE nuh! This is their time! And if you don’t believe me, just think about the kind of world your children’s children will inhabit, if peace and LOVE don’t win the ongoing battle. Much LOVE!…please people…let’s turn, turn, turn…from our evil ways…back to the Father and His righteousness…
SCRIP-BITS 