Psalm 115:1. Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy and for thy truth’s sake.
Oh Friends, it’s another new day! Glory be! And it’s also going to be another hot one, though possibly not as hot as yesterday, or as hot as tomorrow is forecasted to be. But as usual, we believers have cause to celebrate each new day since our ever-LOVING and merciful God does new and blessed stuff every day. Now I don’t have a Bit as yet, but the Spirit has put this idea of freedom and independence in my mind, so I’ll just run with it. (smile) Yesterday was the 4th of July, Independence Day celebrations in the U.S, but I wonder what kind of celebrations they really had with the country currently suffering so much affliction; terrible natural disasters on the East Coast and in Colorado, a stinging heat wave traversing all North America, plus the unfortunate economic distress that so many are suffering in the still richest country in the world. I’m sure it was not as huge and worldly as it usually is, but much more subdued and prayerful. For how can you be overly happy when so many don’t have light, food and water, or even a place to live, as so many down there are unfortunately experiencing? Even the capital, Washington D.C. is suffering from the recent storms. Then there are many other nations who are soon going to be celebrating their independence, like Jamaica and T&T, fifty years in the making. How have all these supposed free nations done in their independence though? Most of them haven’t done too well at all. So what’s the big deal about it eh? Most of the nations have only exchanged a colonial power as their master for one of the global banks or big money organizations, who rape these countries worse than the old colonial masters did. Yet we all still clamour for freedom, for independence! But sadly none of us ever become truly free, for we’re always responsible for, or to, something or someone else. So though on paper we’re free to make our own determinations, they certainly cannot be made in isolation, especially in this age of the global village. Oh Friends, the price of supposed freedom is exorbitant, both in economics and personal freedom of movement, as we can see from the economic disaster that’s facing our world today, and the many graves all around the world, with more being added every day, and still nobody’s free, freedom remains as elusive as ever. Man searches, begs, fights, dies, does so many things to try and attain freedom, but cannot, because it’s basically a figment of our imagination. Let me share a quote from the In Touch Magazine, July edition, from the Devotional Section, which says: ‘It may sound like a paradox, but true freedom isn’t about independence. The spiritually maturing believer is one who grows increasingly dependent on God.’ And that’s the living truth my people! Because the more mature we become in Christ, the more dependent we are on Him. Reality steps in and shows us that maturity doesn’t mean breaking free from Him, but rather accepting His easy yoke and light burden more and more with each passing day, for that’s the only way to truly know and learn about Him. Friends, it’s all well and good to be free, but from what, and how do we sustain that freedom? It’s very difficult and oftimes impossible, because though you may have freedom in one sense, you soon discover that you’re inextricably tied to something else. The Spirit though says it’s time for me to shut up about freedom and find a Bit. (smile) I do hope though that the ideas I threw out, give us some stuff to seriously think about, because the clamour for freedom and independence is becoming louder every day. And the Spirit is so wonderful, it hooked me up with an appropriate Bit, right where the Good Book was opened all along, from Psalm 115, re Trust in God, not in idols. More gospel truth Friends! ‘Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy (LOVING-kindness) and for thy truth’s sake.’ Yes mih people, the glory is not for us, for we don’t have anything to be glorified about. But the Lord’s name, His LOVING-kindness and truth are indeed worthy of glorification, for He’s the Creator, Controller, Protector and Provider of our universe! And we all know that He’s very jealous of His name; doesn’t want it trodden down or used inappropriately. No wonder when He rebukes Israel’s unfaithfulness, He declares through His messenger Isaiah: ‘For my name’s sake will I defer (delay) mine anger, and for my praise will I refrain (restrain) for thee, that I cut (destroy) thee not off. Behold, I have refined thee, but not with (as) silver; I have chosen (tested) thee in the furnace of affliction. For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it: for how should my name be polluted (profaned)? and I will not give my glory unto another. Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the first, I also am the last. Mine hand also hath laid the foundation of the earth, and my right hand hath spanned (stretched out) the heavens: when I call unto them, they stand up together.’ (Is.48:9-13) Wow! What a truly mighty God we serve my people! Yes, the Lord God Jehovah, He is the ultimate Being! And though we can get some sort of independence and freedom from man and his organizations, freedom and independence from Almighty God is neither wise, nor even possible. Why? Because He can get on your case and make your life miserable, as he’s doing to so many who are trying to turn away from Him these days. On the other hand, the wise man will instead surrender His life, his God-given freedom of choice to God and allow Him to run his life, because He’s so much stronger and wiser. Please Friends, let’s show the ultimate in wisdom today nuh, by totally surrendering our freedom to God, so He can improve our lives. It’s the most sensible path to take, the one least fraught with potholes, high hills, winding curves and dangerous gullies. Much LOVE!…total freedom and independence are merely the utopian imaginings of man…for in reality…they do not exist… P.S. It’s somewhat long, but thought provoking. (smile)
Today’s Scrip-Bit 5 July 2012 Psalm 115:1
05 Jul 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: clamour for freedom, freedom, furnace of affliction, glorify the Lord, independence, natural disasters, surrender to God, the price of freedom, ultimate wisdom, utopian imaginings
Today’s Scrip-Bit 4 July 2012 James 5:13
04 Jul 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: affliction, doing good, faith without works, giving thanks, meditation, natural disasters, obedience, peace, prayer, prosperity, seek God, singing praise to God, suffering
James 5:13. Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
Oh Friends, we’re together again! Thank the Lord! Yes, He saw fit to leave the breath of life in us for at least one more day, so please, let’s all be thankful and do our best to serve, worship and reverence Him in a most worthwhile manner today. And all God’s people shouted with great passion: ‘Oh yes Lord, we will serve and worship You, both today and forever more, because You are such a kind, wonderful, generous, merciful, forgiving and LOVING God!’ Oh my brethren, that surely brought a smile to God’s face, but now we have to go out and walk that talk, because faith without works is useless. As James so rightly says: ‘Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone…Show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works.’ (James 2:17-18) Remember too that Jesus basically went about every day, ‘doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.’ (Acts 10:38) Therefore so should we, His followers, go about doing good and helping others as best we can, because the Most High God Jehovah is also with us, in the form of His Holy Spirit. And now, turning to our Bit: ‘Is any among you afflicted (suffering)? let him pray. Is any merry (cheerful)? let him sing psalms.’ Those are very truthful sentiments my people, as we saw yesterday. But today we need the first part, praying more than ever, for more people are being afflicted more than ever. Just look at the natural disasters in the last few days; disastrous and damaging storms on the U.S. East coast, raging fires in Colorado, a tornado in Saskatchewan, Western Canada, floods in India and Japan, war and strife in so many parts of our world, plus famines, economic distress and home loss, wanton sinfulness that’s spreading far and wide, with a power structure that’s keeping the ungodly and evil in high places. Now if that isn’t affliction, I don’t know what is. And we haven’t even gotten down to the individual level yet. So Friends, if there’s one thing our world needs more than anything else right now, it’s PRAYER – and lots of it too. If there’s to be any hope for our world, we need to move away from the ungodly, unrighteous state in which we’re currently living, and move back to a GODLIER situation, where the Lord can bless us, and where we’ll prosper once again. Moses strongly warned the Israelites about disobedience. ‘And thou shalt grope at noonday, as the blind gropeth in darkness, and thou shalt not prosper in thy ways; and thou shalt be only oppressed and spoiled evermore (plundered continuously), and no man shall save thee.’ (Deut.28:29) Likewise the Lord verily impressed upon Joshua when he took over the leadership of the Israelites: ‘This book of the law shall not depart out of (shall constantly be 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.’ (Josh.1:8) And what did Jehoshaphat tell Judah as they were going out to battle: ‘Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.’ (2 Chr.20:20) Oh Friends, why are we so surprised then that our world is in such a state of confusion, oppression and strife eh? It’s obvious that if we’re not obeying God’s Word we will suffer. There are so many examples of it through the Israelites, that I don’t know why we think we should be different. God’s Word doesn’t change, that means what He’s said at the beginning, will still be valid at the end. Oh mih people, let’s help our world to wake up nuh. As Eliphaz said to Job: ‘Acquaint now thyself with him (God), and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee…For then thou shalt have thy delight in the Almighty, and shall lift up thy face unto God. Thou shalt make thy prayer unto him, and he shall hear thee, and thou shalt pay thy vows.’ (Job 22:21,26-27) And though Eliphaz was wrong about Job personally, his prescription for peace and prosperity were correct. Only belief, trust, faith and obedience to God’s Word bring peace and prosperity to a people, my Friends! But instead of rising to greater heights, unfortunately we are sinking to deeper depths because of our unfaithfulness. And in closing, let’s hear the proper way a believer should live this earthly life, in the words of Bruh Paul to the Ephesians. ‘See then that ye walk circumspectly (carefully), not as fools, but as wise. Redeeming the time (making the most of every opportunity), because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess (dissipation), but be filled with the Spirit. Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord. Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.’ (Eph.5:15-21) Oh Friends, that prescription is still as good today for the overwhelming ungodliness that currently exists in our world, as it was some two thousand years ago! Please, let’s do our best to implement it now nuh, before it’s too late. That’s wisdom at its highest. Much LOVE!…to LOVE, serve and glorify the Lord our God…that’s man’s avowed purpose…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 3 July 2012 James 5:13
03 Jul 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: celebrate each new day, climbing new mountains, give thanks, rejoice and be glad, the Lord's mysterious movements, trials and tribulations
James 5:13. Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
Oh Friends, here it comes; another brand new day, filled with some wonderful old stuff like God’s great, unconditional LOVE for us, but also with lots of new things, like His new mercies and blessings. Let us therefore rejoice and be thankful in and for this day! And all God’s people raised a loud and joyous shout to heaven: ‘Oh praise and thank the Lord for His never-ending goodness to the children of men! We will faithfully serve and worship You forever Lord! Amen!’ Yes Friends, it’s only a sense of wisdom to be thankful for and celebrate each new day, since we never know what the Lord’s planned for us. He might remove some of the negatives, give us positives, or any combination thereof. But we know for sure that He’s working all things out for our good, as He’s promised in Romans 8:28. However, along with all that, we have a divine responsibility to look after what He’s given us, including our health. And this is one of those times I have to chuckle because the Lord moved in one of His usual mysterious ways yesterday evening while I was reading a Devotional. The quote at the top of the day was interesting and got me thinking about the topic of health. And right then and there I stopped reading the Devotional, got out pen and paper and began writing this. Hn, hn! What an interesting, amazing and unmatchable God we serve Friends! He never ceases to amaze me in how He works! Anyway, the quote comes from one Leon Eldred, and it says: ‘If I had known I was going to live so long, I’d have taken better care of myself.’ And isn’t that a fact to which we can all attest my brethren? However, I’m here to tell us today that it’s not too late to begin taking better care of our health, like simply eating better, wiser, getting proper rest, and exercising a little more. It doesn’t take much out of us, just pay more attention to what we put in the Lord’s temple, our mortal bodies, and how we use, not abuse it. Obviously we won’t get healthy overnight if we’ve allowed ourselves to go to waste for sometime. But as Cousin Confucius (smile) says: ‘The longest journey begins with the first step. And once you’ve taken that first step, you’re halfway home!’ That’s gospel Friends! The first step is always the hardest! And though I’ve never really abused my body, I’m now trying to treat it a little better, and you’d be surprised at the difference subtle little changes make. And since I know I still have to a ways to go on this earth, because naively or wisely, I suspect the former, sometime ago, in my eagerness to please God, I asked Him, like Caleb did, to give me a new mountain to climb when I’m 85. Hn, hn! And knowing our God’s penchant for catching us offside when we least expect it, I thought I’d better start getting myself in shape to climb that new mountain, some twenty years hence. Yes children, you have that long to put up with me. (smile) Oh Friends, when will I learn to stop asking God for the things some of the Bible stalwarts asked for, and often received, but at great expense and tribulation? Anyway, the deed’s already done, so all I can do now is prepare my self as best I can, for if that day ever comes. Yes mih people, please be careful what you ask the Lord for, because most of the time it comes with a hefty price tag. And now that I’ve written all that extempo(re), from the heart, I guess I’ll have to find an appropriate scripture later. But I like these Bits though, where the Spirit just gets me going; instils an idea, then let’s me run with it. And the Lord was so good to me, that when I came down here this morning to finish writing the Bit, it didn’t take long to find a suitable scripture. Enough of my prattling though, let’s look at the Bit: ‘Is any among you afflicted (suffering)? let him pray. Is any merry (cheerful)? let him sing psalms.’ Now that’s excellent advice my brethren from James, the brother of Jesus, re patience in affliction! And we all suffer affliction at various stages in life, some more than others, but it’s a common problem because of man’s fallen nature. And the best way to attack that suffering, the first move we ought to make, is to get on our knees before Almighty God in sincere prayer. Yes my people, before we do anything or turn to any human, we must always take our problems first to the Father. That’s what He’s there for, and what He desires of us. The psalmist Asaph also strongly advises this course of action in Psalm 50, God is the judge: ‘Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the Most High: And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.’ (Ps.50:14-15) And on that wise note my Friends, we’ll end for today. There’s more to come, but I don’t want to hear any complaints that it was too long. (smile) And we have enough material there to ponder on for today, so let’s get a pondering nuh! Till we meet again tomorrow, the Lord willing, take care, and remember to always give God the first opportunity to help us. Much LOVE!…when prayer and praise come together in a believer’s spirit…all heaven rejoices…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 2 July 2012 2 Peter 1:8
02 Jul 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: aura of love, drunk or sober mind your business, godliness, grow in grace, Happy Birthday Canada, holy spirit, Jesus' easy yoke and light burden, Monday Morning Battle Hymn, patience, rejuvenation of spirit, self-control, spiritual armour, spiritual maturity, temperance, virtue
2 Peter 1:8. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Oh Friends, unfortunately it’s Monday! Please no moaning and groaning, (smile) because it means labouring time again…except for us lucky ones in this great, north country of Canada, where we’re celebrating our 145 Birthday. Happy Birthday Canada! But since the first of July fell on a Sunday, today, Monday becomes the de facto holiday. And yuh better believe the birthday party is going to go right down to the wire tonight, with barbecues flaming, fireworks lighting up the night skies, and a good time being had by all. But a word of caution Friends. As Granny used to say: ‘Sonny boy, drunk or sober, please remember to mind yuh business.’ Yes Friends, it’s ever so important that we don’t overdo the good times, and be very careful not to give the evil enemy any leeway into our lives. Now, for the benefit of all those who have to go out and face the evil hordes of Beelzebub this morning, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn in loud voice, as one. 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 we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Awright mih people, that should hold us in good stead, give us a strong foundation as we go out to do the Lord’s work today! But here’s some more help that comes from our Bit: ‘For if these things be in you (are yours), and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren (useless) nor unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.’ And what are these things Friends, that Peter’s talking about that shall make us abound and be fruitful in Christ? Well to find out the things that will help us to grow in grace, we just have to look to the verses before our Bit: ‘And beside this (also for this very reason), giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance (self-control): and to temperance patience (perseverance); and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity (LOVE).’ (2 Pet.1:5-7) Oh my brethren, without a doubt, if all those good and excellent things abound in us, how can we not grow in Christ and be exceedingly fruitful eh? Now here’s what the scholars have to say about those character builders: ‘In this section Peter urges his readers to grow to spiritual maturity. Add to your faith indicates the areas of growth that follow after salvation. Virtue is moral excellence. Knowledge is spiritual truth. Temperance is self-control. Patience is endurance. Godliness is God-likeness. Brotherly kindness (Gr. philadelphian) is brotherly LOVE. Charity (Gr. agapen) is volitional LOVE. This process is a lifelong cycle of spiritual growth for all believers.’ Oh Friends, I’m sure when some of us look at all those requirements for spiritual growth, we’ll get cold feet. But please don’t be afraid, for we’re not expected to develop that Christ-like character overnight, but it’s a process we have to go through, like the making of steel from basic iron ore, and it takes time, sometimes our entire lives. And be sure that if you’re serious, and your heart’s in the right place, the Lord will see it and offer all the help you need. In Jesus’ words: I am the true (genuine) vine, and my Father is the husbandman (the vinedresser). Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth (prunes) it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” (John 15:1-2) So we don’t have to worry, our God will guide us kindly and carefully. Remember His yoke is easy and His burden light, (Matt.11:30) so He won’t try to force it all on us at once. He knows what we’re all capable of and will guide us at the speed to which each of us is capable. And finally, as Bruh Paul told the Philippians: ‘Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform (complete) it until the day of Jesus Christ.’ (Phil.1:6) Yes Friends, rest assured that whatever work the Lord begins in us, He will finish. He will continue working in us until Jesus returns. Re the scholars: ‘This speaks of the Christian’s eternal security. For God had a purpose in view when He began His saving work in the Philippians, and that purpose will neither be abandoned or unrealized.’ My people, the same reasoning applies to us. God will never leave nor forsake us. Please, let’s write that indelibly in our hearts, minds and souls, so that we can stand strong in Jesus. Much LOVE!…to be LOVED…to be LOVED…oh what a feeling …to be LOVED by Jesus…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 1 July 2012 1 Peter 4:7
01 Jul 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: be sober, Canada Day celebrations, eternal separation from God, patience and perseverance, preparing for eternity, sow good seed, the awesome goodness of God, the time is nigh, the worse fate man can suffer, watch and pray
1 Peter 4:7. But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
Oh Friends, it’s July first; Canada Day! Wow! And the party’s really hopping now! From the stormy Atlantic in the East, to the mighty Pacific in the west, from the Great Lakes, so aptly named, in the South, to the challenging Arctic in the North, the beautiful people of this beautiful and bountiful land are celebrating the awesome goodness of Jehovah God to the undeserving children of men! Oh Friends, that certainly deserves another ‘Wow!’ (smile) And though many may not realize that it’s God’s goodness, His blessings and mercies that they’re celebrating, anything that produces some peace and happiness amongst brethren is better than that which produces anger, hate and strife. Praise the Lord my people! Praise Him for His never-ending, unconditional LOVE to His greatest creation, Man! And now, having waxed poetic and enthusiastic in celebration, (smile) it’s time to get down to the serious business, that of truly serving, reverencing and worshipping Almighty God, and preparing our lives for eternity, whenever it comes, as our Bit so wisely suggests: ‘But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.’ Oh Friends, being prepared for when Jesus comes, is possibly the most important step a human can take right now, especially if He should come real soon, like today or tomorrow. If we aren’t ready when He returns, then it’s cleaners for us – eternal separation from the Creator of the universe. And believe me Friends, that’s the worse fate than can ever befall a soul, because it means an eternity of the same hellish atmosphere we currently have here on earth, and none of the joys that Jesus promises in His final kingdom. In His eternal domain, there’ll be no sorrow, pain, tears, sickness, heartaches and unhappiness, just joyful living in His Light, worshipping, praising, serving, reverencing and glorifying Almighty God! Mama Mia! Now Friends, I don’t know about you all, but given a choice between those two situations above, I’m definitely choosing, rather have chosen the latter one with Jesus as leader! That’s a no-brainer, the supreme wisdom of the age! And that’s why I’m preparing as best as I can for that magical day when Jesus establishes His eternal kingdom. I would strongly advise you all to do the same, for remember He can come at any time, in the day, or like a thief in the night, but once He arrives, there’s no turning back, no changing your mind. So I’m pleading with us all RIGHT NOW to get serious about where you want to spend eternity and make the necessary preparations. Otherwise, crapaud smoke yuh pipe! And that’s no joke Friends, for if Jesus comes and you’re not prepared, you’ll find yourself in a rather horrible situation, from which there’s no getting out. And now I’ve got to chuckle because what I wrote yesterday wasn’t what I had planned to write, but the Lord, in His eternal wisdom subtly guided me to those immortal words of His wonderful Son, Jesus, and then I realized that was the proper way to begin, given our Bit. Now this is more like what I’d planned to write. And we’ll start by looking at some relevant scripture from James: ‘Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman (farmer) waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; (es)stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh (has come near). Grudge (grumble) not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.’ (James 5:7-9) Yes Friends, we have to wait patiently, like the farmer, but first, we have to do our action part; preparing, planting seed in fertile ground, like the farmer. If he had not first planted seed, he could wait until the cows come home (smile) and no fruit would ever appear. Likewise my brethren, we have to get our earthly house in order for whenever Jesus returns, be it right now, or many moons hence. Meanwhile, John declares these oh so truthful sentiments: ‘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. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh (physical desires), and the lust of the eyes (personal desires), and the pride of life (self-interests), 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 for ever. Little children, it is the last time (hour): and as ye have heard that the antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time (hour).’ (1 John 2:15-18) Oh my people, right now our LOVE for this evil, ungodly world is far too great, and that means we’re more interested in Lucifer’s lies, than Jesus truthful promises. But please note that the things of the world will pass away, but those of Jesus will not as He so clearly states: ‘Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.’ (Matt.24:35) Also from the great number of false preachers and teachers now circulating in our confused and troubled world, it’s just one more indication that the end time is drawing nigh. Remember Jesus gave that as one of His signs in Matt.24:4-5. Now let’s close with appropriate words from Bruh Paul to the Romans. ‘LOVE worketh no ill (does no harm) to his neighbour: therefore LOVE is the fulfilling of the law. and that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we (first) believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly (properly), as in the day; not in rioting (revelry) and drunkenness, not in chambering (licentiousness) and wantonness (lewdness), not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof.’ (Rom.13:11-14) Yes my people, it’s certainly time for us to wake up to the reality of Christ and what He expects of His believers, for every day the time of His return draws nearer, and instead of bowing to the lusts of our sinful flesh, we should instead be finding ways to do and show works and faith that honour the new life that we all have in Christ. It’s a wonderful Saviour we have my Friends, so let’s show it to a disbelieving world nuh, and for their immense benefit, get them to LOVE Him as much as we do! Much LOVE…he who has ears to hear…let him hear…then respond wisely to what he hears…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 30 June 2012 1 Peter 4:7
30 Jun 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: Canada Day celebrations, make hay while the sun shines, prevention is better than cure, sign of the times, the beginning of sorrows, the end times, the second coming, wars and rumours of wars, watch and pray
1 Peter 4:7. But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
Oh Friends, the party is just getting into full swing, for this is the weekend we celebrate Canada Day; July 1, our Independence rejoicing! And what a party it’s going to be – from Friday evening right through to Monday night; from the East Coast to the Prairies, across the Rockies to the West Coast! Yes people, from sea to shining sea, we’ll be singing O Canada, privileged to be living in the best big country in the world! Mama Mia! But as always my people, please remember Mama’s warning: ‘Drunk or sober, mind yuh business!’ Unfortunately though Friends, like the rest of the world, we’re slowly sinking, slowly drowning in the dark and dangerous mire of evil and ungodliness that’s sadly overtaking Mother Earth. What a shame that God’s greatest creation, mankind, can so turn against Him and follow the foolish, deceitful, wicked Lucifer to destroy all the wonderful things the Creator has made. However my brethren, for those of us who still believe and try to live godly and righteous lives, the Good Book has this warning in our Bit: ‘But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.’ And that’s the indelible truth my people! Listen to this scripture: ‘And as he sat upon the Mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world (age)?’ (Matt.24:3) Now listen to Jesus’ answer: ‘Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying I am Christ, and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes in divers (various) places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted (tribulation), and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity (lawlessness) shall abound, the LOVE of many shall wax (grow) cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.’ (Matt.24:4-14) Oh Friends, that is the definitive word from the One who should know! And sadly, we’re now seeing a lot of what He predicted coming true: the wars and rumours of wars and the many natural disasters, In other words, ‘the beginning of sorrows.’ But unfortunately, we’re also seeing the widespread persecution of Christians, the offence so easily taken by so many, too many of us have too thin skins, numerous, abnormal and abominable betrayals, plenty hatred, plenty false prophets arising and betraying many innocent sheep, evil and lawlessness are in such abundance that most of the world is living in fear and LOVE is being relegated to the trash heap, along with God, and hearts have become so cold and unfeeling that they seem to be made of stone. And finally, the gospel is being preached much further and wider than it’s ever been preached before, thanks to the communication revolution. What does all of that tell us my brethren? That all the conditions for the end have been set in place like never before. It might yet be a while, who knows? But the wise man won’t take any chances, he’ll get ready right now, if he isn’t already prepared. Oh my people, it certainly won’t hurt if we stay sober and diligent, watching closely what’s happening around us, while staying fervent and faithful in prayer. Now let’s end with some more definitive words of Jesus: ‘Now learn a parable of (from) the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it (he) is near, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled. Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark. And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman (master) of the house had known in what watch (hour) the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered (allowed) his house to be broken up (into). Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.’ (Matt.24:32-44) Ah mih Friends, those are words of Jesus, so they must be true! Can our generation be the one where all those signs are fulfilled? It’s certainly possible. Now only the Father knows when the end time will be, but we’ve been given a clue, a comparison to Noah’s time, where the people are pleasure oriented and self gratifying, going about their daily lives without any heed to the warning of approaching judgement, and thus are totally unprepared for it. Oh my people, let’s wake up and smell the roses nuh! The Son’s return will be swift and sudden; the lost won’t know what happened to saved, as they just disappear into thin air. Please let’s get prepared nuh! That is eternal wisdom! Much LOVE!…prevention is better than cure…but alas…at the end…there’ll be no time for cure…so let’s wisely make hay while the sun still shines…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 29 June 2012 Isaiah 6:9
29 Jun 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: ask Jesus for help, count your blessings, Friday chant, importance of attitude, mysteries, rest and relaxation, smile you're on camera, sour grapes, Thank God it's Friday, worldwide calamities
Isaiah 6:9. And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not.
Well Friends, I don’t have to remind you that to day is Friday, the eve of the weekend, because I can hear you loudly and joyously shouting ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday!’ Yes mih people, we’ll be free from work for two days. Some of you appreciate that while others groan and mutter: ‘Chuh! What is two days eh? What can you do in two lousy days?’ Plenty mih breddren, plenty! No need to get sour and miserable because it’s only two days, and most likely you have a lot of your own stuff to do at home that you can’t do during the workweek. Instead you should be counting your blessings, because plenty people don’t have any days off at all, or any jobs either. So if you have stuff to do at home, just call up Jesus and ask for His help. He’ll gladly show you how to handle all that you have to do. So please put a smile on your beautiful face made in God’s image, some joy in your heart and join us as we chant our Friday Chant. With much verve and gusto, as one voice now: ‘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.’ Hope that helped all of you out there chewing sour grapes. (smile) Remember it’s the attitude we bring to the circumstance that’s important, that makes the difference, rather than the circumstance itself. Now that fits in quite nicely with our Bit: ‘And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed (keep on listening), but understand not; and see ye indeed (keep on seeing), but perceive not.’ Ah mih Friends, that was the Lord sending Isaiah to tell the people of Judah about their sinful, unrighteous living. But as the scholars declare re ‘Isaiah’s Commission: God warns Isaiah that his ministry, for the most part, will fall on deaf ears. The syntax of the sentence indicates that hear ye indeed means “keep on hearing.” Thus Judah will continue hearing but not heeding the prophet’s warning.’ And that my Friends is exactly what’s happening in our evil, unrighteous world today. The gospel is being preached loud and clear, far and wide, yet people are not hearing it, nor understanding what’s happening. They’re seeing the constant and numerous calamities that are befalling our world but are not taking heed of them. No wonder the Lord continued telling Isaiah: ‘Make the heart of this people fat (dull, uninterested), and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.’ (Is.6:10) The scholars have this to say about that verse: ‘Make the heart…fat…ears heavy…shut their eyes indicates that the more he preaches, the more the people will harden themselves to his message.’ Not understanding it all, Isaiah sought some confirmation: ‘Then said I, Lord, how long? And he answered, Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate. And the Lord have removed men far away, and there be a great forsaking (many forsaken places) in the midst of the land. But yet in it shall be a tenth, and it shall return, and shall be eaten (for consuming): as a teil (terebinth) tree, and as an oak, whose substance is in them (stump remains when it is cut down), when they cast their leaves: so the holy seed shall be the substance thereof (its stump). (Is.6:11-13) The Lord was referring here to the Babylonian captivity, after which only a tenth of the people shall return to Judah. And we all know that the prophecy was fulfilled. Oh my people, please see the similarity between Judah’s day of reckoning and ours nuh! We are living in similarly sinful and wicked times, unconcerned, or rather trying to eradicate the ONE TRUE God Jehovah from our midst, for the carnal lusts of the flesh and Beelzebub’s evil doings. But Friends, just like Judah, one day our number will play; unimaginable death and destruction will reign down on us, leaving only a handful who heard, saw and believed to be saved. As Jesus said when the disciples asked why He spoke to the multitudes in parables: ‘Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries (hidden truths) of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.’ (Matt.13:11) Now according to the scholars: ‘A “mystery” in the Bible implies a sacred secret into which one must be initiated in order to understand it. The mystery revealed would be the new form of the kingdom during the interval between the first and second advents (comings).’ ‘Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, which saith…’ And he went on to quote Isaiah’s prophecy. (Matt.13:13-15) Oh Friends, when Jesus quotes the Old Testament, be assured that we should sit up and take serious notice. People were living in great sin, abandoning God in Isaiah’s time, also in Jesus’ time, and now too in ours. My people, the end times are definitely drawing nigh. It can happen on any day, at any time, so please pay close attention and do whatever needs to be done to guarantee your salvation and eternal life with Jesus. Let’s not be found wanting and be amongst the group Jesus just spoke of, but of this one: ‘But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear. For verily I say unto you. That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.’ (Matt.13:16-17) Oh Friends, we can only be numbered amongst that latter group, if we gladly embrace Jesus and all that He stands for RIGHT NOW! Please be wise and do so. Much LOVE!…to him that hears of Jesus…and does not believe…his will be eternal separation from Almighty God…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 28 June 2012 Ephesians 6:13
28 Jun 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: a bountiful day, constant diligence, fervent prayer, LOVE from heaven, new mercies and blessings, pray for those undergoing adversity, spiritual armour, stand your ground in hard times, wonderful God we serve
Ephesians 6:13. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Oh Friends, can you feel the LOVE pouring down from heaven with the new mercies and blessings on this new bountiful day? Wow! What a wonderful God we serve! It always amazes me how He protects and provides for us anew each day! I sure hope that all you believers realize this and appreciate it, because if you don’t, you’re missing out on a lot of good stuff. And I’m not merely talking about physical and material possessions, although the Lord does bless us with them, but I mean the personal relationship with Him that just boosts all parts of us, and helps us live a righteous life in this evil world. Oh my people, please get up close and personal with Jesus, so that He can set you on the right path. It’s the ultimate wisdom! And now a bit of sad news; re the floods in Florida from tropical storm Debby and the forest fires burning out of control in Colorado. Ah Friends, please let’s pray some mighty prayers for those unfortunate people involved in those calamitous natural disasters. Whatever the cause or reason for them, let’s ask our kind, LOVING and merciful God to help them bear up under the serious adversity that’s befallen them. That brings us to our Bit: ‘Wherefore take (up) unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.’ Yes Friends, if there’s ever a time we need to do that it’s right now, for we’re living in very evil times. That means we’ve got to be clothed in our spiritual armour at all times and then stand strong because the enemy is moving against us with a mighty push to get us to break down and repudiate our Christian heritage. That must never happen though! And the only way to ensure that it doesn’t is to be always prepared; dressed in your helmet of salvation, belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, sandals of peace, armed with your shield of faith, waving your mighty spiritual sword in earnest prayer. Now yesterday after reading Bruh Paul’s description of the armour of God, I gave you a brief description of them. Today though I want to share a more in depth perspective, re how the terms came about back in the olden days, courtesy of the scholars. Here goes: ‘The whole armour of God consists of six pieces. (1) Truth (v.14a) is a knowledge of the truth of God’s Word. The ancient soldiers loins (waist) were girt about with a leather belt which held most of the other pieces of his armour in place. Similarly, the other pieces of the Christian’s armour depend on, and are held in place by, his spiritual ‘belt’ or his knowledge of the ‘truth’ of Scripture. (2) The breastplate of righteousness (v.14b) may be read ‘the breastplate which is righteousness.’ It represents a holy character and moral conduct. Obedience to the ‘truth’ known produces a godly life (righteousness). (3) Preparation of the gospel of peace (v 15) means ‘eagerness that comes from the gospel of peace’ That is, as the Roman soldier wore special shoes called ‘caligue’ on his foot, enabling him to advance against his enemy, so the Christian must have on his feet (possess) a sense of ‘eagerness’ or ‘willingness’ to advance against the devil and take the fight to him. Such ‘eagerness’ to contend with Satan ‘comes from the gospel of peace.’ The gospel gives peace to the believer, freeing him from anxiety though he advances against such a powerful opponent. (4) The shield of (which is) faith (v 16) means taking God at His word by believing His promises. Such trust will protect one from doubts induced by Satan. (5) The helmet of salvation (v 17a): Since the readers are already Christian they are not here urged to be saved. First Thessalonians 5:8 describes this helmet as ‘the hope of salvation’ that is, the certainty (assurance) of salvation. (6) The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (v 17b): The Greek term rendered ‘word’ is not ‘logos’ referring to the whole Word of God, but ‘rhema’ referring to certain portions of selected verses of Scripture. Praying (v 18) is grammatically linked to ‘stand’ in verse 14. Without prayer God’s armour is inadequate to achieve victory. Prayer is indispensable. Always (v 18) means ‘on every occasion,’ that is, when Satan attacks. In the Spirit signifies that with the Spirit’s help such prayer for divine aid is to be made. Watching thereunto means ‘being vigilant in this very matter’ of prayer. They are to pray not just for themselves but also for all saints; spiritual combat is both an individual and corporate matter.’ Oh Friends, I hope those thoughts from the scholars either provided some new knowledge or reinforced what you already knew about spiritual warfare. But whatever stage you’re at, this spiritual warfare is indeed a serious matter, so please let’s take it as such and ramp up our knowledge and practice of it, because it’s becoming more important with each passing day in these evil, troubled, confused and calamitous times. We can never know enough about the powers of darkness and their evil intention to allow us to sit on our laurels. We must always be diligent, in possession of all the accoutrements of battle and praying with great fervour and sincerity. That’s the only way to defeat Beelzebub! Much LOVE!…to battle, to battle…we all must go…dressed in our spiritual armour…earnestly praying…and bravely battling the foe…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 27 June 2012 Ephesians 6:13
27 Jun 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, dressed for battle, helmet of salvation, prayer, sandals of peace, shield of faith, sword of the Spirit, the spiritual armour of God
Ephesians 6:13. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Oh Friends, who says our God isn’t a wonderful Deity eh? Foolish people! Remember yesterday I was wondering whether I had the parts to stand strong during the adversity of a root canal operation? Well I believe I do, but the truth is it wasn’t necessary to prove it yesterday, for when I got to the dentist, he still couldn’t find anything wrong, and couldn’t guarantee that the root canal would solve my problem. In any case, it has improved over the last few weeks, so in our mutual wisdom (smile) we decided to leave well enough alone and see what happens in God’s good time. Praise the Lord! But what really amused me is that I was late getting there, and I don’t know anybody else who would be rushing to the dentist for a root canal. Hn! Most people would be delaying even more. I wasn’t really rushing, but trying to get there as fast as I could, given my penchant for hating to be late anywhere at all. Anyway, the important thing is that this morning my mouth isn’t all bloodied and battered. And that deserves a big: ‘Thank You Lord!’ But enough trivia for now. (smile) Let’s move on to more worthy matters like our Bit: ‘ Wherefore take (up) unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.’ Yes Friends, we’re continuing the message on spiritual warfare, which is vitally important for believers to understand, as there are truly evil, demonic forces at work in the spiritual world. Here’s what the scholars have to say about our Bit: ‘Wherefore means “because of this,” that is, because we face such a formidable foe, we must avail ourselves of God’s provision lest the enemy destroy our Christian witness and ministry. The evil day refers to the periodic demonic onslaughts and Satanic assaults. Having done all includes both dressing oneself in God’s armour and resisting Satan. Having done all these, be ready, for the Devil will attack again and again.’ And that my Friends, is the living, gospel and total truth! Beelzebub is guaranteed to keep coming at us every chance he gets, so it’s up to us to be clothed in God’s protective armour at ALL times, so we give him not even one iota of a chance to invade our bodies and souls. And what is the whole armour of God that Bruh Paul’s talking about? I’ll let him explain it. ‘Stand therefore, having your loins girt about (your waist girded) with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness. And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked (one). And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.’ (Eph.6:14-18) Yes my people, the basic accoutrements of spiritual warfare are: the helmet of Salvation, to guard our minds; the breastplate of Righteousness to guard our inner man, our hearts, will and emotions; the belt of Truth, so that we can stay centred in the Word, testifying to the truth at all times; the sandals of Peace, so that we’ll go everywhere in peace and tranquility, boldly anchoring our feet in the bedrock of Jesus; the shield of Faith, that massive protection that allows us to deflect the fiery arrows of the enemy and stand safely behind it in true faith.And then we need the almighty sword of the Spirit, the Good Book, the spiritual weapon that cuts deeply to bring about conviction and repentance. And finally, the catalyst that brings it all together my people, Prayer. With any of those missing from our arsenal Friends, we’re very vulnerable to the sneaky, conniving advances of Lucifer and his band of evildoers. So Friends, today, RIGHT NOW, let’s take serious stock of our spiritual armour, and make sure that we’re not vulnerable in any area. Let’s also be sober and diligent, so that we don’t give the enemy any chance at all to infiltrate our defences, for remember he’s always on the prowl, like a roaring lion, seeking to devour all and sundry. (1 Pet.5:8) More on this spiritual warfare stuff tomorrow, provided God’s willing, so that we can get it totally ingrained in our hearts, bodies and minds. Till then, please my people, let’s be very careful of our earthly walk, let’s stay under the LOVING protection of God’s embrace, and may He bless and keep us all in true peace. Much LOVE!…in this evil world…a believer can only fight successfully…when he’s totally prepared…that means…fully dressed in all God’s armour, with the catalyst of prayer right at hand…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 26 June 2012 Ephesians 6:10-11
26 Jun 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: armour of god, grow where you're planted, inconsistent temps, protective armour, spiritual warfare, stand strong in adversity, stand strong in God's power, the whole armour of God, we wrestle not against flesh and blood, West Indian living, wiles of the devil
Ephesians 6:10-11. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God; that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Ah Friends, no wonder people get sick and suffer from so much joint illness as arthritis in this country yes! The weekend was fairly warm, in the mid to high twenties, then along comes yesterday barely breaking the twenty degree mark, with strong, cool winds. Now today is supposed to be in the mid twenties, and climbing each day until it gets to about thirty-four on Friday. Chuh Steups! Oh, I like that combination of West Indian disgust, never thought of putting them together before (smile) Oh to be in the wonderful West Indies, where the temps stay steady and don’t move up and down like a yo-yo! But hear me talking about the West Indies nuh, as though I know so much about it, having not lived there for almost forty years. I’m sorry Friends, but I am biased. Although Canada is the best big country in the world, the West Indies IS the best place to live! Matter fixed! (smile) The long and short of the story though, is that wherever the Lord appoints us to be, wherever He chooses to plant us, be it in an arid desert, or a well-watered oasis, that is where we have to stay, grow, flower and bear fruit. But the only way we can do that is by adhering to the strategy outlined in our Bit: ‘Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God; that ye may be able to stand against the wiles (evil schemes) of the devil.’ Yes Friends, the only way we can stand strong during adversity, and prosper too, is by putting on ALL of God’s wonderful protective armour, so that we can protect ourselves against the advances of the wicked enemy, and fight back too. Because one thing Jesus doesn’t want His followers doing is running from Beelzebub! In Jesus’ war manual, the gospel, He declares that the best method of defence is offence! So it’s vitally important that before the evil one comes a calling, we’re prepared, and that we pounce on him, before he gets a chance to attack. Hn, hn! I certainly hope I can stand strong when I go to my dentist for some root canal work this afternoon. (smile) Now hear how the scholars explain the two verses of our Bit: ‘Finally may be rendered “from now on” or “henceforth.” The Spiritual battle Christians are engaged in exists “from now on” until the Lord’s return: there is no quarter given, no cease fire, no temporary truce, no cessation of hostilities. “From now on” till the end there is all-out war. The remainder of the verse may be paraphrased, “let yourselves constantly be strengthened by the Lord, more precisely by His mighty power.” And ‘Put on (Greek ingressive aorist imperative) -whatever that means – denotes a sense of urgency, demanding immediate action. To stand has military overtones. This verb was used in classical Greek meaning to resist the enemy and hold a critical position in battle. The wiles of the devil (or, “the Devil’s strategy”): Satan carefully devises schemes and tactics against believers.’ Oh my brethren, that most certainly tells us that we’re in a serious war! Sometimes it might include physical battle, but there’s ALWAYS a spiritual fight going on in our members and our minds. As Bruh Paul continues explaining to the Ephesians: ‘For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world (age), against spiritual (hosts of) wickedness in high places.’ (Eph.6:12) Yuh better believe that mih people, because it’s the gospel truth! And here’s how the scholars decipher that verse, re the activities of demons: ‘Several activities in the Bible may involve demons. Sometimes they cause physical disease or mental suffering. However, not all mental disorders are demonic in origin. Demons also tempt people into immoral practices. They originate and propagate false doctrines taught by heretical religious groups (1 Tim.4:1). The Bible also teaches that some people were possessed by demons (Mark 1:23). Although demons are committed to do evil, God will use them to accomplish His plan during the end of the age (Rev.16:14). Illustration: Demons are also objects of worship in various occult practices forbidden by God. These include divination (an illegitimate means of determining the will of God), necromancy (efforts to communicate with and interrogate the dead), magic (using formulas and incantations), sorcery (perhaps the non-medical use of drugs), witchcraft, and astrology (Deut.18:10-12) Application: When the Ephesian Christians who were “dabbling” in the occult repented, there was a great revival in that place. No Christian can ever justify his participation in demonic activities. (First Ref. Ex.7:11; Primary Ref, Eph. 6:12, cf. Heb.1:4) Oh Friends, for those of you who don’t believe it, or take it seriously, there is indeed a great battle continuously going on in our souls for supremacy, both by Lucifer and Jesus. As Christians though, followers of Jesus, we simply cannot allow the evil one to get a foothold, even a toe or finger hold in us. I didn’t have time nor space to copy the scripture references that the scholars gave, but please read them, I did, for they are very valuable in helping to understand what this whole spiritual warfare is about. Please take it very seriously, for it can mean the difference between spending life in purgatory with Lucifer, or in heaven with Jesus. Much LOVE!…a wise man hears wisdom…thinks about it…then acts wisely on it…
