Today’s Scrip-Bit   13 December 2022 Psalm 118:23.

13 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 118:23.        This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.

Well, at long last a day has opened with bright sunshine! Thank you, Tuesday! Oh, we’ve certainly had enough of the dark and dreary days that just seem to kill the hope and joy in one’s life. But, unfortunately, unless you’ve experienced the dark, damp, dreary days of winter, you won’t appreciate the joy and upliftment that a sunshiny day brings. And the unique and contrary thing is how beautiful the white snow on the rooftops and lawns looks when the brilliant sunshine reflects off of it! 

You simply can’t deny that it’s another of our God’s marvellous doings. As the psalmist so rightly says in Psalm 118: ‘This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.’ (Ps.118:23) Yes friends, even in the midst of the cold winter months, the Lord has made a way for us to enjoy the snow by making it look beautiful in our eyes when the sunshine lights it up. 

Therefore, as the psalmist goes on to say: ‘This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.’ (Ps. 118:24) Most certainly my fellow believers! This, like every day that we’re alive is a day to enjoy and give thanks since we don’t know how many days, if anymore, we’ll be alive to see sunshine, snow or rain. And though we complain about the vicissitudes of life; the unwelcome and unpleasant changes, I don’t think that any of us are really ready to give up this cruel and evil, but still beautiful earth for heaven just yet. (smile) 

No, we still LOVE the earthly life with all its scenic wonders and amazing things that happen therein…although that’s possibly because this is the ONLY life we’ve ever known. But there’s another one on the horizon for all of us at some time or other; either in heaven with Jesus Christ, or in hell with Beelzebub. And choosing Jesus and heaven is a conscious choice we all have to make; it doesn’t just happen by itself. If we don’t consciously choose Jesus and live for Him, then it’s assumed that we’ve chosen to dwell with the devil. 

And believe me friends, that’s the worst mistake we can ever make in this earthly life, for being continually in the devil’s company in the next life will surely be laced with hellfire and damnation. The only wise and sensible option is to choose Jesus, choose Him RIGHT NOW, if you haven’t done so already! Why? Because the time of His return is near; nearer than we think. And once He returns all bets are off; you won’t have the chance to choose Him, you’ll be allotted to the hell bound goats of the devil, a very distasteful and disastrous destination. 

But if you repent of your sins and believe wholeheartedly in Jesus, then your name will be written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, and you will spend eternity in heaven with Him. And the Good Book tells us in no uncertain terms what happens at the last judgement to those whose names are not found therein. ‘And death and hell (hades) were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.’ (Rev. 20:14-15) 

Yes friends, those who refuse to accept Christ as Lord and Saviour will be thrown into the lake of fire with his satanic majesty. The scholars tell us that ‘the second death is eternal punishment in the lake of fire reserved for and experienced only by the unsaved. Once this final judgement occurs, there is no further need for either death or hell (Hades) (c.f. Rev. 1:18; 6:8; Is. 25:8; 1 Cor. 15:26, 55). An eternal separation is now made between those who have life and those who have “death” (c.f. Dan. 12:2; John 5:29).’ 

Oh my people, it is ever so important that we understand the serious ramifications of the choices we make down here on earth, and reading those referenced scriptures will give us a better understanding of what will eventually happen. But as I’m so goodhearted and like to spoon feed us (smile) let’s listen to a couple of them. 

This one from Daniel, where he talks  about the end times: ‘And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for (stands watch over) the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to the same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.’ (Dan. 12:1) The scholars say that means that ‘during the Great Tribulation there will be an unprecedented attack to exterminate the Jews, but they will be delivered by Michael the archangel.’ 

Meanwhile Daniel continues: ‘And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt (abhorrence). And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.’ (Dan. 12:2-3) The scholars maintain that ‘after the Great Tribulation there will be two resurrections, one of the righteous to everlasting life and another of the unrighteous to everlasting contempt. A comparison with Revelation 20:4 shows that these two resurrections are separated by the one thousand year reign of Christ.’ 

Now my people, please note that some of this prophecy about the end times had been made before Daniel, (c.f. Is. 25) but Daniel just laid it out in more concrete terms. And there is much more to be said, but it would just make the Bit too long and weighty, (smile) so we’ll leave the rest of it for tomorrow, God willing. Now, for those of us who have accepted Christ as Lord and Saviour, and are sincerely trying to live for Him, let’s go home declaring (yesss!!!) our Tuesday Mantra, letting the whole world know to whom we belong, lock, stock and barrel. 

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

And having made that commitment, let’s go out and action it by sharing the amazing LOVE and friendship of Jesus with others, so that they too can come to know and LOVE Him like we do! Much LOVE!

…eternal life or death…the choice is all ours…please be wise and choose life… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   12 December 2022   1 Peter 5:8.

12 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

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

1 Peter 5:8.        Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour:

Oh friends, let’s be thankful that we got the blast of cold weather and snow yesterday morning rather than today, otherwise this Monday morning’s commute would have been a nightmare out on the snow-covered roads with the white stuff lazily, but dangerously drifting down. (smile) However, most of the snow has either melted or has been cleaned away and the roads are in good shape for the opening day of this workweek. 

And I do hope and pray that most of us are also in good shape as we journey out to earn a living and do God’s bidding. Because if we aren’t, then the day will frustrate us, causing unnecessary anxiety. That’s why before we leave home, we ought always to commune with our Maker and heavenly Father asking for His strength and guidance to handle the day as it inexplicably and uncertainly unfurls before us. 

Remember, we are more than conquerors, but we can only do what Christ strengthens us to do. Therefore, we need Christ in every moment of our day, if we are to successfully see it through. That’s why Peter so wisely warned and advised us thus: ‘Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.’ (1 Pet. 5:6-7) 

And that’s the living truth friends! Our God cares for us so much that He even sent His Son Jesus Christ to earth to die on the cross at Calvary so that He could justly forgive our sins and reconcile us to Himself! As Bruh Paul said to the church at Rome: ‘But God commendeth (demonstrated) his LOVE toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.’ (Rom. 5:8) Now if that isn’t the epitome of LOVE and caring, then I don’t know what is! 

But my people, since we are in a partnership with God, it means we also have a part to play. And Peter lays it out for us, when he advises: ‘Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in (experienced by) your brethren that are in the world.’ (1 Pet. 5:8-9) 

Ah friends, although many of us experience similar temptations, it’s not always easy to resist the devil, especially when he goes around roaring loudly. Remember though, that he’s a toothless lion, only has a big roar, for Christ has already defanged him, taken away the keys of hell, death and the grave from him, and his only power now is to frighten us with his loud voice. He plays on our fears like a dog loudly barking on a dark night; we can’t see him, but we know he’s close by, and we tremble with a spot of fear as the sound seems to get closer with each bark. 

But the truth is that those dogs who make so much noise are either tied up or are fenced in, that’s why their only avenue is to bark loudly and frighten us. And it’s the same with Satan; he has no power over us unless we give it to him, unless we allow him to scare us into doing his bidding instead of Christ’s! And Peter also covers that by saying: ‘But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish (establish) strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.’ (1 Pet. 5:10-11) 

What a mighty and gracious God we serve my fellow believers! He won’t allow us to fall into a circumstance from which we cannot extricate ourselves with His help. As Bruh Paul says in his first letter to the Corinthians. ‘There hath no temptation taken (overtaken) you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear (endure) it.’ (1 Cor. 10:13) 

Yes my people, the Lord won’t always allow us to escape from the temptation completely, but more likely He will give us the strength, the wherewithal to withstand or endure said temptation, because that will test and build our faith, bring us more like Jesus, which is God’s basic plan for all His children. That’s why we have to pay close attention to the people and things that come into our lives and early on winnow the wheat from the chaff, or else the chaff, the devil’s iniquity workers will just muck up our lives. 

And once he acquires a stronghold in us, it’s certainly difficult to get rid of him, he holds on for dear life. So, the best way to avoid that is by resisting him, by being sober and diligent in the first place, and not let him gain any strongholds in our lives. And it all begins with prayer. So let’s go to God, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn and place our problems in His caring, merciful and gracious hands. 

Altogether now: ‘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 for 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, it’s up to us to do the things we know will get us a positive answer from God. Much LOVE!

…Satan is very persistent… but Christ’s followers are more steadfast and persevering… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   11 December 2022 Luke 2:30.

11 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

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

Luke 2:30.        For mine eyes have seen thy salvation.

The Christmas season is ramping up friends. Only another two weeks and we’ll be celebrating the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ which actually occurred in a manger, an animal barn some two thousand years ago. But that occasion was so marvellous and so important to mankind that we’ve been celebrating it every year since then. And so it should be, because the birth of Jesus Christ was the promise of the Messiah, the Prince of Peace, the Redeemer of man fulfilled. 

And though the ungodly world has made the Advent season more a time of gift giving and purchasing, of eating and drinking, of simply making merry, we faithful believers must continue to remember and advocate the real reason for this spectacular celebration; the incarnate birth of Jesus Christ. So, as we gather in the Lord’s sanctuary on this His day, let us remember that wonderful occasion through our song of worship, one titled ‘O Come All Ye Faithful.’  

Yes friends, ‘This popular Christmas Hymn harkens to the biblical story of the birth of Christ. It is considered a reference to the shepherds, after hearing the angels singing, coming to Bethlehem to adore their new-born Saviour. Today this hymn signifies and celebrates our coming together in worship to adore the LOVING blessing of Jesus, as He sacrificed Himself for our salvation.’ So, let’s offer up our voices in sacrificial praise, in sweet harmony, in a mid-tempo, sincere and passionate version of the song. 

Singing: ‘O come, all ye faithful, Joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem. Come and behold Him, Born the King of Angels! (Chorus: O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.) God of God, light of light, Lo, he abhors not the Virgin’s womb; True God, begotten, not created: (Chorus) O Sing, choirs of angels; sing in exultation O sing, all ye citizens of heav’n above. Give to our Father, Glory in the highest! (Chorus) Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, Born this happy morning; Jesus, to Thee be the glory giv’n; Word of the Father, Now in the flesh appearing, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.’

Oh my faithful brethren, adoring our beautiful and ever-LOVING Lord and Saviour is exactly what we need to do! His name ought to be exalted from the highest hills for the all the wonderful things His humble birth made possible. And the words of the song do convey Christ’s majesty despite His being born in a stable. ‘God of God, light of light, Lo he abhors not the virgin’s womb. True God, begotten not created.’ 

Yes, that’s all true. Christ was begotten like a man, not created, with the sperm of God planted in the virgin’s womb by the Holy Spirit, growing and manifesting just like men. And he would live a life like ordinary men. The only difference is that He was the Son of God, without sin, that’s why He could pay our sin debt on the cross of Calvary later on in life. 

But He was indeed the true Light as John says in his gospel. ‘That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.’ (John 1:9) John the Baptist was not the true light, but was sent to proclaim the coming of the ‘true Light,’ Jesus Christ. 

And the scholars tell us that verse means that God’s revelation is universally available, but it does not signify universal salvation, because to receive salvation one has to believe in Him, as verse 12 tells us. ‘But as many as received him, to them gave he the power (the right) to become sons (children) of God, even to them that believe on his name. (John 1:12) 

Then the song talks about ‘Word of the Father, Now in flesh appearing…’ More awesome truth my people. And John again informs of these most salient facts. ‘In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God…And the Word was made (became) flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.’ (John 1:1-2, 14) 

Yuh see friends, Jesus was in fact a part of the Holy Trinity, a part of the Word that created the world, then He became incarnate, a man, born of a woman, but sinless. And later on, we did behold His glory through His death and resurrection. And you’ll notice how the old priest Simeon and the old prophetess Anna gave praise and thanks when Jesus was brought to the temple on the eight day as was the custom. 

The Bible tells us: ‘Then took he him up (Simeon took up Jesus) in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation. Which thou hast prepared before the face of all the people; A light to lighten (bring revelation to) the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.’ (Luke 2:28-32) Simeon had been promised that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah, (vs. 26) that’s why he was willing to go home after seeing Christ. 

Oh friends, the song is indeed a call for all Christ’s people to come and rejoice at this time of His birth. And though it’s an adaptation of a Latin hymn ‘Adeste Fidelis,’ its English translation has been sung down through the years and made popular by many well-known artists. And we’ll end with this commentary. Don’t remember where I got it from, but I like it. (smile) 

It says: ‘The encouragement to “come, all ye faithful, . . . to Bethlehem” situates the singer both among the shepherds who rushed to see Christ and in the great continuation of the “faithful” that have traveled to Bethlehem in a spiritual nature for over 2,000 years. Although today, we cannot actually witness Jesus in the manger, we can come to Bethlehem in a symbolic sense. We can be there in our imaginations as we allow the Christmas story to hearten our spirits.’ 

Truly, there’s no better way to get us into the Christmas spirit, than rejoicing in the Word and singing songs of gladness for Christ’s birth! Please, let’s do just that today! Much LOVE!

…Christ…the greatest mover and shaker…this world has ever known…and will ever know… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   10 December 2022 Luke 9:23.

10 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

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

Luke 9:23.        If any man will (desires to) come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

And once again, this new day, this lazy Saturday has dawned grey and overcast. However, my computer weather forecast tells me that it will eventually be mostly sunny. Let’s hope that is true, because there’s nothing worse than a cold, cloudy day. And since I’ve already lazed out as much of the day as possible, (smile) I’ve got to get right into the Bit, considering the quotes that our friend Anselm sent us this past week, as he aspires to inspire us for a better tomorrow. 

Now the first quote tells us: ‘Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.’ Well, that’s at least partly true, because some things, if you don’t believe in them, you’ll never experience them. That’s just the nature of those things. It’s like belief and faith in Christ. If you don’t believe in Christ, have sincere faith in Him, you’ll never experience the wonderful things He has in store for you. All the many miracles, or what some might call magical moments, in a life lived exclusively for Him. 

It’s the faith, the belief that creates the opportunities. And how is faith defined? ‘The substance (realization) of things hoped for, the evidence (conviction) of things not seen.’ (Heb.11:1) Exactly my faithful brethren! Faith is what we hope for, the positive expectation of what we don’t see, but know that it will come along eventually. And that segues very nicely into our next quote. ‘Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment, until it becomes a memory.’ 

That’s the gospel truth. Many of us can think back to moments we never really valued at the time they were happening, but now, many years later, realize how important and valuable they were in our life. I can think of several right off the top of my head. Unfortunately though, not properly appreciating the moments of life when they occur, is a sad drawback to the human nature. 

Why? I don’t know! But we just seem to pass over some moments without paying proper attention to them. And that’s ever so possible and plentiful in our busy society. And later on, we so often hold our heads and bawl: ‘Oh how I wish I’d paid more attention to such and such, or so and so!’ But then it’s too late my people. Let’s hope that this will give us a wakeup call, to consider all the moments in our lives, so that we don’t pass over some of the real important ones, and only have vague memories of them as we go back and forth in our rocking chairs. (smile) 

Meanwhile, the next quote succinctly informs us: ‘To win big, you sometimes have to take big risks.’ And that’s the glorious truth! Be it in the evil doings of this world, or in the wonderful kingdom of Christ. To gain much, one must usually expend much; in time, money, energy, faith and hope! That’s because big rewards just naturally come from big expenditures in whatever you’re seeking to achieve. And if you think that’s not true, then listen to Jesus as He sets out His basic rule for discipleship. ‘If any man will (desires to) come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.’ (Luke 9:23) 

Now if that isn’t a big risk, I don’t know what is. It means that every day we have to put aside our own desires and do God’s will. Be like Jesus said in His darkest hour in the Garden of Gethsemane: ‘O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except (unless) I drink it, thy will be done.’ (Matt. 26:42). Yes friends, Jesus would have surely preferred not to go to the cross, but He was willing to do it if it was the Father’s will. Likewise, we are expected to put our desires aside and do Jesus’ will if we want to receive big rewards in heaven. 

Please note that all the people mentioned as being of great faith and doing great things in the Bible, all took great risks and sacrificed much. Names like Abraham, who packed up and left his family simply on God’s say so. A God He did not even know. Likewise, Moses, led the Israelites at great sacrifice to himself. Bruh Joseph experienced much heartache and betrayal in his young life, but he held on staunchly to the promise of His God and was eventually greatly rewarded by being made the Prime minister of Egypt, then the greatest power on earth. 

Look at the lives of Bruh David, Bruh Paul, Job, etc. etc. All laid down their own desires to follow that of their God, and were well rewarded, not necessarily here on earth, but definitely in heaven, where Jesus said it was the best place to store one’s treasure. (smile) 

And then, there was this quote: ‘To live a fulfilled life, we need to keep creating the ‘what is next’, of our lives. Without dreams and goals there is no living, only merely existing, and that is not why we are here.’ Now, all of that is technically true; without dreams and goals we’re merely existing, and that’s not why God made us. But to live a truly fulfilled life, one must be living for Jesus! For He is the only one who can bring real fulfillment to our souls and spirits. 

The world might bring fulfillment to our bodies, but those pass away back to the dust from which they were originally formed. However, our souls and spirits live on, and that’s why they ought to be properly taken care of. And remember only Jesus gives eternal life, peace, true joy and unconditional LOVE! But that doesn’t mean that our desires and dreams are unimportant to our God. Definitely not, since he is the One who originally put them there! 

And let’s not forget this magnificent advice of Bruh David, which he wrote from personal experience: ‘Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the Lord and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed (feed on His faithfulness). Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.’ (Ps. 37:1-5) 

Obviously you won’t get everything you want, especially if it conflicts with God’s will, but my people, that’s the only way to live a truly fulfilled life on God’s great earth! That brings us to this last quote, another dilly. ‘The most wasted of days is one without laughter.’ And yuh better believe it! A day without laughter is indeed a wasted day. Now, we’re not talking about just maniacal, delirious laughter, but moments when the soul and spirit exude a joy that lifts us up, that enables us to continue steadfastly on the straight and narrow road. 

And Cousin Sol, in his infinite wisdom, described laughter thus. ‘A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.’ (Prov. 17:22) Yes friends, it’s been scientifically proven that laughter is one of the best, and the cheapest medicines ever. Here are some of the things laughter does. It lowers blood pressure; reduces stress hormone levels, and right now stress is the biggest killer in our society. Laughter also works your abs. Oh yeah! When you laugh your stomach muscles contract and expand like when you intentionally exercise your abs. 

It improves cardiac health; gets your heart pumping and improves blood flow. It boosts ‘T-cells’ a natural immune system that helps us fight off sickness. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, another facet of our natural pain relief system. And finally, laughter produces a general sense of well-being. It certainly does! And doctors have discovered that those with a positive outlook on life, who laugh a fair amount, also live longer than those who are on the negative side of the equation and don’t laugh as much. So please, let’s go out today and be positive, bask in the joy of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and laugh a lot, so we can live longer! Much LOVE!

…living for Jesus might be tough…but it’s always interesting… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   9 December 2022 Matthew 25:40.

09 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

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

Matthew 25:40.       Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Now, the new day has dawned somewhat grey and overcast, but that doesn’t matter, because it’s Friday. Oh yes, the last day of the workweek is here and we are all overjoyed. Our shouts of freedom can be heard all over the world. ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday and we can soon rest for two days from the agony of this modern slavery!’ 

And in some respects, the sentiments are quite true, because, in spite of our supposed modern society, a lot of workers are still not enjoying the benefits of our advances, but are unfortunately still stuck in old world ways of work through the greed and selfishness of their rich and predatory bosses. It’s surprising that in a world of plenty, there are still so many with so little. The problem is that too few have too much and have greedily set up the systems so that they can acquire even more off the backs of the many with little. 

But I guess that’s the way it’s been all down through the ages. Although one would have thought that in this supposedly enlightened and modern society of ours, the problem of equality would not be still such a big deal, and the distance between the haves and the have nots would not be so wide. ‘Wishful thinking,’ someone whispers in my ear. (smile) Why, in this day and age do we still have to fight tooth and nail to get a decent wage for a fair day’s work eh?. But it’s the truth. The richer are getting richer while the poor are getting poorer. 

People in the so-called third and fourth world nations would never believe the amount of poverty, homelessness, sickness and economic suffering that exists in these supposed first world countries. They all think that it’s a bed of roses, and beg, borrow and steal to get here, until they arrive and sadly discover that in many cases, they were better off where they came from. At least back there if they didn’t have a job or food, some friend or relative would share what little they had with them. But in the first world countries sharing with your neighbours is not the norm. 

And one aspect of the situation that’s so horrifying is the prevalence of food banks nowadays. People are working forty or more hours a week and still can’t afford to buy food for their families. I remember volunteering at a food bank many years ago, and they were few and far between at the time. It was only supposed to be a stop-gap measure. But now they are everywhere and desperately needed too. What with rents and prices for everyday items skyrocketing, but wages remaining stagnant, the ordinary man in the street needs help to feed and clothe his family. 

However, the food banks should not be a staple or standard of our society, because that would simply turn us into a bigger beggy-beggy society than we already are. Three quarters of the mail I receive is from charities asking for donations to support one thing or another. I give, and gladly too, but at times it just gets to be too much. You pick up the phone, it’s someone growling in your ear about giving. You open your e-mail, the same thing. And yet, despite all these supposed charities, the situation is not improving. The governments don’t care. They are only interested in getting in power and being able to milk the gravy train themselves. 

Oh my people, if we want to be a truly just and Christian society, we need to remember those who don’t have and treat them properly. Our God decreed that from way back when. Listen to these scriptures. In Leviticus, He says: ‘And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex (mistreat) him. But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born (native) among you, and thou shalt LOVE him as thyself: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.’ (Lev. 19:33-34) Yes friends, all of us were strangers in some land at some time or another, and because of that the Lord expects us to treat strangers properly. 

And Moses reminds the Israelites of God’s desire in Deuteronomy. ‘Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked (stubborn, rebellious). For the Lord your God is God of gods, and the Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward (the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality, nor takes a bribe). He doth execute the judgement of the fatherless and widow, and LOVETH the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. LOVE ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.’ (Deut. 10:16-19) 

And all through the Bible references can be found about treating the stranger, the widow and fatherless with LOVE and compassion. Jesus even told us that the second great commandment was to LOVE our neighbours as ourselves. (Matt. 22:39) And our neighbour includes anyone with whom we come into contact. Then there’s also this poignant and appropriate scripture from Hebrews. ‘Let brotherly LOVE continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.’ (Heb. 13:1-2) 

Yes my faithful brethren, Abraham (Gen. 18:13) and Lot (Gen. 19:1-2) did receive angels unawares. And although that might not happen nowadays, showing hospitality to the needy is still important and will be very beneficial in the long run. Please remember Jesus words after the parable of the talents, when He separates the sheep from the goats, and says to the sheep. ‘For I was hungered (hungry), and ye gave me meat (food): I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.’ (Matt. 25:35-36) 

And when the righteous in surprise asks when they dd all those things for Him. He replied: ‘Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.’ (Matt. 25:40) That should give us plenty food for thought my people! Now, through our Friday Chant, let’s go to God in humble but confident prayer, asking for His divine intervention in our less than stellar affairs. 

Altogether now: ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough… what with all the confusion and anxiety caused by our many serious problems. And you know Lord that we can’t fix them on our own, so we desperately need your help. Oh heavenly Father, with your omnipotent help, and our trusting faith, we know that we can stand strong and steadfast and defeat the simmering unrest in our land. So Lord, we sincerely ask you today to give those involved in the forefront of this serious and unexpected storm, the wise guidance to handle the situation properly, without further setbacks. And please help those of us who must go out to work amidst all the confusion, to be responsible and to stay safe. 

Also 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, the bubbling discontent and dissatisfaction in our land, as a means of restoring faith in You, so that our sinful world can wake up and smell the coffee, wake up and smell it sweet and strong! We pray this in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!’ 

Now friends, if we want to receive a positive answer to our prayers, then we need to get serious about the promises we’ve just made, obeying God’s word and living the life He desires us to live. Much LOVE!

…you can’t exploit the downtrodden…and expect to be rewarded by Christ… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   8 December 2022 Luke 1:38.

08 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

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

Luke 1:38.        And Mary said, Behold the handmaid (maidservant) of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.

Then Thursday came on board, a mixture of sunshine and cloud, but nice and dry. It’s also another day in the Advent Season, one day closer to that miraculous time of Christmas. And the incarnate birth of Christ was nothing less than a marvellous miracle! A woman becoming pregnant without knowing a man, what else could that be eh? And to be a true believer in Christ, that’s one of the first things we need to believe; that Jesus was indeed the Son of God, with the sperm of God planted in His mother Mary’s womb by the Holy Spirit! 

And if you are unable to believe that, then whatever else you believe is of no consequence, for that’s the foundation of the whole Christmas story, and the basis on which Christ was able to die for us, to redeem our sins and give us His righteousness. As the Good Book says: ‘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. 5:21) Yes friends, if Jesus wasn’t the de facto Son of God, but the son of a man, he would not have the power to pay for our sins, because a man born of a sinful man cannot pay for other men’s sins. 

Remember too that since the fall of man in the Garden of Eden, all men have been born with a sinful nature, so how could a son of man pay for our sins eh? Impossible! But since with God all things are possible, He fashioned a rather innovative plan to redeem our sinful souls and reconcile us back to himself. 

And the whole situation is certainly extremely interesting. It all began with God sending the angel Gabriel down to the city of Nazareth in Galilee, where he appears ‘To a virgin espoused (engaged) to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And the angel came into unto her, and said, Hail (Rejoice), thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.’ (Luke 1:27-28) 

Now, you can imagine our consternation in such a situation, even in this day when we know so much about God. Just think how Mary, a teenager from a relatively low-level family in a backward town in Galilee felt when the angel approached her with such a joyful greeting. The Good Book tells us: ‘And when she (Mary) saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind (considered) what manner of salutation (greeting) this should be.’ (Luke 1:29) Of course, we would all wonder why the address in such exalted terms. 

‘And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS (Yahweh Is Salvation). He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest (Most High): and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.’ (Luke 1:30-33) 

And you know what amazes me most about this whole story? Mary’s reaction! She didn’t go crazy and pull out her hair or shout and carry on. She simply took the whole thing in stride, especially knowing how her life would be terribly affected if she was found with child before she was married. And I just LOVE her cool, reasoned response. ‘Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?’ (Luke 1:34) She just got right down to brass tacks. How can I get pregnant if I don’t have sexual intercourse?

 ‘And the angel answered and said unto her, the Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest (Most High) shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing (one) which shall be born of thee, shall be called the Son of God.’ (Luke 1:35) And that’s how Jesus could be sinless, because He was conceived by God, although He was human in every other respect! But Gabriel wasn’t finished with his good news. He continued to Mary: ‘And, behold, thy cousin (relative) Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age; and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. For with God nothing shall be impossible.’ (Luke 1:36-37) 

Oh my people, another miracle. John the Baptist’s mother Elizabeth had been barren until the Lord stepped in, until it was time for the prophecy as spoken by the prophet Malachi, regarding John the Baptist to be fulfilled. ‘Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the Lord of hosts.’ (Mal. 3:1) And the scholars tell us that prophecy is uniformly applied to John the Baptist, the only prophet besides Jesus who was the subject of prophecy. 

And Matthew in his gospel also acknowledged it, by writing of John the Baptist. ‘For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, (Is. 40:3) saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’ (Matt. 3: 3) You see how our God had everything well planned, with John being born just before Jesus, so their paths could interact to fulfill His prophecy. But the best part of that whole conversation between Mary and the angel Gabriel was her last words to Him. ‘And Mary said, Behold the handmaid (maidservant) of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.’ (Luke 1:38) 

Oh my fellow saints, that’s what you call mature faith, trust and surrender! And it’s oh so rare to be found in a such a young woman! She didn’t fight it, or throw any tantrums like so many of us would have done! She just calmly accepted the will of the Lord. Oh, how our lives would be so much better if we just accepted His will for our lives like Mary did. And it’s an interesting response, when contrasted with that of Zechariah’s, John the Baptist’s father. When the angel told hm the good news of his wife’s Elizabeth’s pregnancy and the important part his son would play, he doubted and was thus made dumb until the day of John’s christening. (Luke 1:11—25) 

Ah friends, if we’d only believe, if we’d only believe and act on our belief. But there’s still hope for us. And our faithful God has given us the tools to help us believe, build our faith and witness to others. We call them our Thursday Blessings. So, let’s activate them by declaring (steups!!!) them right now nuh. As one voice: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! 

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

Now, let’s use those undeserved blessings to go out and show others how wonderful it is to be a child of God, a follower of Jesus Christ! Much LOVE!

…if God says to jump…our automatic reaction should be…how high Lord… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   7 December 2022 John 13:34.

07 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

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

John 13:34.      A new commandment I give unto you, That ye LOVE one another; as I have LOVED you, that ye also LOVE one another.

So, Wednesday has turned out to be damp and cloudy, but I’ll take that any time over the cold and snow. And today marks my fiftieth anniversary of being in this blessed country called Canada. Yes, it’s been fifty long years of snow and cold, but by nature I’m still a warm-blooded animal! (smile) Can’t get the tropics out of me, because I was born and bred there. But that doesn’t mean we can’t handle the icy climate, just that we don’t like it. For remember we can handle anything at all with the help of Jesus who strengthens us. 

And who do you think enabled me to handle the last fifty winters eh? Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! And I can’t believe how quickly those fifty years have gone by. It seems like it was just yesterday I landed at Toronto airport, not yet renamed Pearson, on a cold, dark evening, coming directly from hot, tropical sunshine, with very little money in my pockets…and I still have very little. (smile)  

I remember the next day, getting up around eight a.m. and still seeing it dark outside, then walking to the subway in freezing rain in a thin, borrowed spring coat and dry-weather shoes, going downtown to Simpson Sears, the big, cheap store at the time, to buy winter clothing. And my first memory on entering the subway was wondering how all the white people in the cars looked so frigid and cold and wrinkled. I definitely wasn’t accustomed to seeing so many supposedly normal people looking unhappy and prune-like. 

I believe I asked my mother what was wrong with them, and she most likely just smiled at me in my ignorance. Then to make matters worse, my mother, bless her departed soul, made a mistake and took us off the streetcar at the wrong stop, which meant we had to walk a whole long block back to where we should have gotten off. It surely was an eventful welcome to what has become my home for the last half-century. 

And there were obviously times I wanted to go back to the sunshine and saltwater, but it’s difficult to pull up stakes once one is settled with family and other responsibilities. I must admit too, that though it wasn’t easy, it surely was interesting and adventurous, and I learned to do a lot of stuff for myself, that might not have been the case if I had remained in T&T. 

Now, I believe without a doubt, that Canada is the best big country in the world! Oh, like everybody else, we do have our problems, but we tend to be a li’l more understanding than most. Although that seems to be changing with the new generation, as all over the world impatience, resentment and lack of LOVE is becoming the norm. But that’s why we of the old generation ought to be ramping up our efforts in Jesus’ name to stop that negative turn from becoming more prevalent than it already is. 

Remember what Jesus said: ‘If ye LOVE me, keep my commandments.’ (John 14:15) And what’s His commandment? He said it loud and clear: ‘A new commandment I give unto you, That ye LOVE one another; as I have LOVED you, that ye also LOVE one another.’ (John 13:34) How could it get any clearer than that eh my people? No way! But knowing how fickle and faithless we could be Jesus repeated the commandment later on. ‘This is my commandment, That ye LOVE one another, as I have LOVED you.’ (John 15:12) And why did He harp on us LOVING each other? As He says: ‘By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have LOVE one to another.’ (John 13:35) 

Yes my friends, the world will only recognize us as followers of Jesus if we not only have, but more importantly, show LOVE to each other! It’s the litmus test for Christians! But unfortunately, for whatever reason(s), many of us are failing it every day, and that’s why our world is in such an ungodly uproar. There isn’t enough LOVE in our world to quiet the raving hearts of men. And ONLY LOVE will ever conquer hate. So, if we want to get rid of the hate that’s sadly consuming us, we need to replace it with the LOVE of Jesus as quickly as possible, otherwise our world will just continue sinking into the evil and ungodly quagmire that’s the devil’s greatest desire. 

And we simply cannot allow that to happen my faithful brethren. It would be a huge injustice to Christ after He’s given His all, sacrificed His very life for us to be set free from the chains of sin and ungodliness. That means we, the faithful believers, have to make a big, bold move in Jesus’ name, if we want to right the wrongs that are being currently done in our world. And it won’t be easy, but if we are sincere and true disciples of Christ, with His help, we can certainly turn things around. 

But it’s going to take a great effort from all of us believers, for the devil is not going to roll over and play dead when we attack his strongholds. No! He’s going to have his iniquity workers ramp up their evil and ungodly efforts and try to keep us at bay. But they won’t be successful if we are determined. Remember what Bruh Paul said to the church at Rome. ‘Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors, through him that LOVED us.’ (Rom. 8:37) 

Oh my fellow saints, anytime we step out to do Christ’s bidding with a true and sincere heart, nothing or no one can stop us from achieving victory! But the problem is we need to develop the hope and faith to do it! And for those of us who are sincerely working towards that goal, let’s go home now declaring (chuh!!!) our Wednesday Wail, letting all and sundry know of our wonderful position in Christ Jesus. 

As one strong 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 my fellow believers, if we endure to the end with Jesus, then I can guarantee that future will be even more glorious than we can ever ask or imagine! So please, let’s use that as an incentive to keep working for Jesus nuh, shining like bright lights, and being as salty as ever, showing the world our LOVE for each other, like He desires of us! Much LOVE!

…living for Jesus…means bright lights…plenty saltiness…and plenty, plenty LOVE…

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   6 December 2022 Ephesians 5:2.

06 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

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

Ephesians 5:2.       And walk in LOVE, as Christ also hath LOVED us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet -smalling savour (aroma).

Well, it’s Tuesday… we’re alive to see it and are ever so thankful for that grace and mercy of our great God! And all God’s people said a loud and grateful: ‘Thank You Lord for allowing me to see another day on this wonderful planet earth!’ And I know some of you are disputing my terminology there about the wonders of this planet, but God made it wonderful, it’s we the disobedient and evildoers who have made it ugly and however it is today! 

And with the Lord’s help and our sincere dedication, we can make it great again! But we’ve got to wake up very soon and smell the disgusting aroma of sin and evil that surrounds us, because it’s definitely not a sweet savour or smell. Nowhere close to what God expects and what Bruh Paul writes to the Ephesians. ‘Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in LOVE, as Christ also hath LOVED us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet -smelling savour (aroma).’ (Eph. 5:1-2) 

No friends, we’re not living up to the sacrificial offering that Christ made to God on our behalf. And that’s rather sad and pitiful. Jesus could put His life on the line for us, and we don’t even have the courage and or courtesy to live for Him! What a bunch of ingrates! And as Christ Himself so plainly put it in His sermon on the Mount: ‘Ye are the salt of the earth; but if the salt have lost his savour (flavour), wherewith (by what) shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.’ (Matt. 5:13) 

Unfortunately though my supposed Christian brethren, too many of us are not meeting that requirement at this present moment, that’s why sin and ungodliness are so rampant in our world. Too many of us have lost our saltiness and are therefore only worth to be trampled underfoot. 

And I like how the scholars explain that verse. The say ‘5:13. The Beatitudes are followed by a summary statement of the basic character of the Christian’s life as salt and light. Ye are the salt of the earth: Again, the phrase ‘ye are’ indicates that only the genuinely born-again person is salt and can help meet the needs of the world. Salt adds flavouring, acts as a preservative, melts coldness, and heals wounds. Thus it is a very appropriate description of the believer in his relationship to the world in which he lives.’ 

And that’s the gospel truth my people! We need to be like salt and add a good and pleasant Christ-like flavour to the world around us, and then preserve that beautiful flavour, don’t let it disintegrate or disappear and turn to something that’s not a sweet savour to our wonderful God. And when we talk about the power of salt to melt coldness, do we ever have a big job to do in this oh so cold and selfish world. But how could it be otherwise if we’re not spreading the LOVE of Christ sufficiently eh? It’s ONLY the LOVE OF CHRIST that will melt the coldness and selfishness of this world. 

And then, last but not least, we come to the power of salt to heal wounds. Wow! And all you old people (smile) know of that marvellous power, for when we were young the first thing our parents put on our cuts was salt, bathe them in salt-water before putting anything else on them And ofttimes they put nothing else, and in the blink of an eye those cuts would be healed. I remember experiencing the dreaded feeling of warm Epsom salts water on my cuts. It burned like the fires in Hades! (smile) But the cuts were healed very quickly. 

And likewise, if we take the saltiness embedded in the LOVE and friendship of Christ to the world, we will be able to heal so many wounds, that our world would turn into a completely different and better place! But we have to first lose our fear of the world, then develop the desire and the chutzpah to turn it around, reclaiming the saltiness that we’ve lost along the way. Otherwise, our world is just going to keep on going to hell in a handbasket! And I don’t think we desire that for either us or our children. 

Oh my fellow believers, it’s high time we stop allowing ourselves to be simply trampled underfoot like flavourless salt and be the light and flavourful salt that Jesus desires and also empowered us to be! The fault lies with us, not with the world or with Christ. We have all the tools we need to do His work, but, for whatever reason, we just are not doing it, and that obviously saddens our Lord and Saviour. Because, say whatever you want, after sacrificing so much for us, He will be deeply disappointed that we are not putting up a better effort on His behalf. 

After He’s made the devil a toothless lion, with only a big bark, taken away the keys of hell, death and the grave from him, and given us the victory, how could we in all good conscience not step up to the plate and do a better job for Him eh? There’s no good reason whatsoever! Therefore, I am pleading with us to seriously examine our consciences today and discover where we are going wrong, or just not doing what we should, and for our sakes, our children’s and Jesus’, rise up and do better. We can certainly do it if we try! 

And for those of us who are already trying to live sincerely for Christ, let’s go home declaring (awright!!!) our Tuesday Mantra letting the whole world know to whom we belong lock, stock and barrel. As one strong and sincere voice! ‘In God’s eyes, I’m not what I do. I’m not what I have. I’m not what people say about me. I am the beloved of God, that’s who I am. No one can take that from me. I don’t have to worry. I don’t have to hurry. I can trust my friend Jesus and share His LOVE with my immediate neighbours, as well as with the whole wide world! Glory be!’ 

And having declared those heartfelt words, let’s go out now and put them into action, 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!

and the ole adage applies…time for Christians to stop being the old brooms that know the corners…and start being the new brooms that sweep clean… (smile)  

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   5 December 2022 Hebrews 13:6.

05 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

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

Hebrews 13:6.       So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall (can) do unto me.

And then it was Monday once again! That continuously recurring first day of the workweek which causes our frustrations to rise to abnormal and unnecessary levels! (smile) Yes, although we know the right way to handle Mondays, it still often gets the better of us. So what do we do about it eh? 

Simple! With the Lord’s help, make better preparations and come to terms with the fact that once we are in the work force, after a short weekend break, Monday will come around every week and require us to get back out into the evil and ungodly world and walk our walk for Christ, which in itself will undoubtedly cause us some problems, since the world is not very receptive to Christ at this particular period in time. 

But the good news is that our Lord and Saviour will never ask us to do anything and then leave us in the lurch to do it alone. Of course not! He always gives us the necessary tools, anoints us to do whatever He requires, which means we ought not to get overly frustrated and disappointed when problems come against us. Please remember this magnificent and ever so encouraging scripture that we’ve been talking about the last few days: ‘I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me!‘ (Phil. 4:13) 

Now, if you sincerely believe in Christ Jesus then that ought to be a foundational scripture in your repertoire, indelibly written in your spirit, to draw from for spiritual support, whenever the need arises. Oh friends, it’s of the utmost necessity that we have a bunch of scriptures at the ready for when problems come upon us. But we cannot ever get our repertoire sufficiently enlarged without constantly perusing and meditating on the Word. 

Please remember that the Bible is God’s Word to us, and it’s still fresh through all the ages. Therefore, if we read it, we will find God’s wisdom on its pages. And there’s no better example of that than the directive the Lord gave to Joshua when He appointed him leader of the Israelites after the death of Moses. 

‘This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth (be constantly in thy mouth); but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage: be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest.’ (Josh. 1:8-9) 

Oh my faithful brethren, those are some of the most profound and wise words in the scriptures. And so they should be, if they were uttered by the Lord Himself. And yuh know what? Those words were not meant to apply to only Joshua, but to ALL God’s children, right down through the ages! 

And if you are a child of God, sincerely studying His Word is the only way to grow in spiritual maturity and strength; to have no fear of what the world can do to you, because your heavenly Father is with you all the time. Don’t forget He has also promised: ‘I will never leave thee nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall (can) do unto me.’ (Heb. 13:5-6) 

And it’s ever so true that lack of knowledge of the Bible is a big cause of the fear that so many of us feel as we go through our everyday lives. You’ll surely notice that when we have the Word buried deep in our hearts and souls, then we walk with a spring in our stride, with pep in our step, because we are confident of what Psalm 91 says. ‘Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the Most High, thy habitation (dwelling place); There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh (near) thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. 

They shall bear (lift) thee up in their hands, lest thou dash (strike) thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder (cobra): the young lion and the dragon (serpent) shalt thou trample under feet. Because he hath set his LOVE upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. he shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and show him my salvation.’ (Ps. 91:9-16) 

Oh my fellow saints that’s what we have to look forward to when we faithfully adhere to the Lord and His Word. Now, let’s promise each other to pull up our socks and do better because better must come, and it will only come through God’s people, by us rising to the challenges we face! And for help to do that, let’s approach the throne of grace, and through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, plead our case. 

Altogether now: ‘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, if we want to see a positive response then we’ve got to clean up our act, including the motives of our hearts. Much LOVE!

…promises, promises, promises…man’s are made to be broken…but God’s are ALWAYS fulfilled… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   4 December 2022 Psalm 27:1.

04 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 27:1.       The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Oh friends, this Sunday morning reminds me of Bruh David’s heartfelt words in the opening verse of Psalm 122: ‘I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.’ (Ps. 122:1) Consequently, I want to offer us that same marvellous opportunity today. So please, let us be glad on this the Lord’s Day and go into His house this morning filled with much thanks and praise for being alive and being a valued member of His flock, a joint heir with His Son Jesus Christ and therefore partakers of all that He has given to Christ. Nothing could be better than that my faithful brethren because it means the whole universe is our inheritance. Glory be! 

And since our bountiful inheritance all came about through Christ’s selfless work, it’s only right that we should offer up heartfelt gratitude and praise to His holy name. And we’ll do that today by opening our proceedings with a song most appropriately titled, ‘In Christ Alone,’ written in 2002 by Stewart Townend and Keith Getty. The writers wanted to encapsulate the theme of the life, death and resurrection of Christ, plus its implications for us, and they certainly have done that. So, let’s raise our harmonious voices in sweet sacrificial praise in a rousing, but soulful, mid-tempo version of this beautiful song. 

Singing: ‘In Christ alone my hope is found; He is my light, my strength, my song; This cornerstone, this solid ground, Firm through the fiercest drought and storm. What heights of LOVE, what depths of peace, When fears are stilled, when strivings cease! My comforter, my all in all—Here in the LOVE of Christ I stand. In Christ alone, Who took on flesh, Fullness of God in helpless babe! This gift of LOVE and righteousness, Scorned by the ones He came to save. Till on that cross as Jesus died, The wrath of God was satisfied; For ev’ry sin on Him was laid— 

Here in the death of Christ I live. There in the ground His body lay, Light of the world by darkness slain; Then bursting forth in glorious day, Up from the grave He rose again! And as He stands in victory, Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me; For I am His and He is mine— Bought with the precious blood of Christ. No guilt in life, no fear in death— This is the pow’r of Christ in me; From life’s first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny. No pow’r of hell, no scheme of man, Can ever pluck me from His hand; Till He returns or calls me home— Here in the pow’r of Christ I’ll stand. Yes, Here in the pow’r of Christ I’ll stand.’ 

Oh my people, that was a wonderful rendition, and all heaven was singing with us! And as I look at the words and sentiments expressed in the song, I can’t help but see the truth of it all. Christ is the ONLY ONE who can be at the same time, our hope, light, strength, song, cornerstone and solid ground. And we can find scriptures that personify all of them through Him. 

Listen to this one on hope from the pen 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.’ (1 Pet. 1:3) Yes my fellow believers, it’s only through Christ’s resurrection that we can have a true and living hope of eternal life! 

And as per our light, Jesus Himself said it thus: ‘I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.’ (John 8:12) And there’s no disputing that claim because it’s what He came to do; to bring the freeing light of God to a dark and sin enslaved evil world! 

Then as regards our strength… Oh, we all know that magnificent verse of scripture written by Bruh Paul to the Philippians: ‘I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me!’ (Phil. 4:13) And that’s more gospel truth friends, because it is only through Christ’s strength, His empowerment, that we are able to stand strong and steadfast against the enemy and all his evil wiles and temptations. And Bruh David said it so well in Psalm 27: ‘The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?’ (Ps. 27:1) 

And if you didn’t know about Christ being our song, (smile) Moses declared it long ago when he and the children of Israel sang: ‘The Lord is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation (praise Him); my father’s God, and I will exalt him.’ (Ex.15:2) And that verse was so important and sweet, that the psalmist gave it further exposure in Psalm 118:14. 

Now, it’s no secret that Jesus is our cornerstone! He is our foundation, our measuring stick or example, the promise of God to His people! No ifs ands or buts about that, for without Him we’d be cast aside for ever. Isaiah said it long ago: ‘Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone. A tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.’ (Is. 28:16) 

And Peter corroborates that the scripture was fulfilled, when speaking of Jesus: ‘Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, The stone which the builders disallowed (rejected), the same is made the head of the corner (chief cornerstone).’ (1 Pet. 2:7) Yes friends, Christ’s church is the work of a Master Craftsman, and He is the solid, rocklike foundation on which it’s built. 

And we all know what Jesus said about the man who built his life on Him. ‘Therefore whosever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man which built his house upon a (the) rock.’ (Matt. 7:24) And that rock is Jesus, who no flood or strong wind or natural disaster can destroy, because He’s solid like a rock! 

And we’ll end with this most appropriate commentary on the song. The writer sincerely entreats: ‘Lord, who am I, that you should desire so much to be LOVED by me? And who shall I LOVE, if I don’t LOVE You, my Jesus? Make me all Yours for the rest of my days. Give me Your LOVE; I ask for nothing more.’ Now, my fellow saints, please let that be our prayer for today! Much LOVE!

…Jesus is the ONLY sure hope in this world… 

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

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