Hebrews 12:3. For consider him that endured such contradiction (hostility) against himself, lest ye be wearied (discouraged) and faint in your minds (souls).
Ah Friends, in this crazy confused world, when it’s not one thing, it’s certainly another yes! And though I know and believe that my God is kind, LOVING, merciful and all those great things, some days I’m not too thrilled by the things He allows in my life. Here’s an instance. Yesterday a wicked wind storm blew all day in my area – was still blowing up to a short while ago – around 6.15 p.m. I’m coming home from the dentist, my mouth all numb and frozen, I can hardly feel my lip, just dying to get home and get to my bed. But lo and behold, what do I see when I pull into my driveway? I see half of the eaves trough on the right side of my house swinging in the windstorm, banging against the house. Hn! You can imagine my consternation! Obviously I cried out to the Lord: ‘Why Lord, why this now eh?’ You know there was no answer. (smile) And though I could see no real reason for this calamity, I did my best to stay in faith, wondering where I would find someone at that late hour to come and fix it. Well not even fix it, but simply cut off the piece that was hanging down and constantly being lengthened by the strong wind. I certainly couldn’t leave it like that because it would eventually get long enough to bang into the two windows on that side of the house, and I certainly didn’t want that further frustration. So in my great wisdom, I stuck it behind an outside light fixture and tied it there, then got out my trusty Yellow Pages. Yes I know that many of you are laughing at the thought of using Yellow Pages because you consider that so old school and passé, but since I’m an old school man, I’m still using it. I don’t believe in running to my computer for everything. I found the eaves trough section, and called a couple places. Obviously at that time of day all I got were recorded messages, so I said my piece, then sat down to wait, tentatively listening for any further damage. An hour later, one of them returned my call, claiming they couldn’t get anybody to go up on a ladder in that kind of windstorm. But as luck, or rather the Lord would have it, they found someone who came by later and cut it down. It took them less than ten minutes to do so. However the price for doing it was a bit steep, because they claimed it was an Emergency Service. Hn! And you don’t want to know what they quoted me to replace it. But I don’t have any choice, and hopefully it will be fixed before the next set of heavenly blessings come pouring down, for that will cause further problems. And I have to laugh here, because my whole perspective has changed from a few days ago where I was praying for rain, but now I’m praying for none. Ah Friends, the things our God causes or allows in our lives eh! But if I say I trust Him and surrender my life to Him, then all I can do is grin and bear whatever comes along and believe that whatever happens He’ll eventually work it out for good as He faithfully promises. (Rom.8:28) Now I wasn’t planning to write about this, but you know His Spirit eventually planted the idea and I’m obedient, if nothing else. (smile) Then to make matters worse, I came down to write about it and the first thing I saw was this note I have taped to my desk: ‘Our task is to take hold of God’s grace to endure our afflictions with patience, without growing weary. In time, He will perfect, establish, strengthen and settle us. We must wait on the Lord and be of good courage.’ I guess He figured the point still needed driving home. And that wasn’t all. I finally got an answer to my question of why that calamity at such an inopportune time. I was supposed to count my blessings, be thankful for small mercies, it could have been worse, the whole roof could have blown off. Suppose I was living in the U.S. Midwest where all the terrible tornadoes are wreaking such havoc on innocent people. Now I do feel empathy for those unfortunate people and pray for them, but I guess the Lord figured I needed a reality check, so I wouldn’t feel untouchable, get too comfortable, too proud and big for my britches. Oh Friends, it’s a lesson we all have to learn as believers, and the Lord will teach us, in ways we don’t like, but have to accept because His thoughts and ways are much higher than ours. And remember He never puts us in a tight position without any help. I can attest to that right here and now, because I was a tad concerned about the money to fix it, but in His wisdom and generosity, the Lord’s already provided the money to fix it from a very surprising source. So how can I not LOVE and revere Him though He puts me through all sorts of trials eh mih people? It’s just another instance of where He shows His faithfulness in keeping all His promises to those who stand in faith and try their best to obey Him. Ah well, the Lord probably decided that He needed a testimony from me today, for as they say, actions speak louder than words, and telling others what the Bible says is all well and good, but they will appreciate it much more when they know and see how it’s working contemporarily in our own lives. And that’s my testimony for today Friends. It’s no big, miraculous tale, but one of simple every day life, which is where the Lord truly wants to work with us. So please let’s consider our day to day actions, though seemingly simple and trivial, to be very important to both our God and ourselves, for that’s how we live – from day to day. Hope this testimony has some impact on those of you who are going through similar circumstances, or even worse ones. It’s imperative that we consider all that happens to us as coming from the Lord, therefore we can release all our anxiety to Him, then stand strong in faith and watch Him work successfully in our lives. Now I have to go and find a suitable Bit, because this is one of those written from the heart. (smile) Ah Friends, I’m back, some ten minutes later. I found several that seemed suitable, but this is the one I felt in my spirit. ‘For consider him that endured such contradiction (hostility) of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied (discouraged) and faint in your minds (souls).’ And that’s solid advice Friends. Whenever we get between a rock and a hard place, let’s consider Jesus’ trials and how He withstood them through steadfast faith in His Father, then let’s do likewise. Though it’s not going to be always easy, the Lord will ALWAYS HELP US if we sincerely ask for it! Much LOVE!…count your blessings…one by one…see what awesome things Jesus has done…then thank and praise Him…for every single one…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 17 April 2012 Hebrews 12:3
17 Apr 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: blessings, calamity, confused world, empathy, faithful promises, frustration, good courage, kind God, old school, rock and a hard place., stay in faith, wait on the Lord, work it out, Yellow Pages
Today’s Scrip-Bit 16 April 2012 Psalm 107:1
16 Apr 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: attitude, battle hymn, blessings, dangerous, difficult, enemy, excellence, grumbling, humble servants, lies, thanks, useful purpose, wiles
Psalm 107:1. O Give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
Aye mih Friends, another lovely Monday morning has rolled around! And I hear all sorts of grumbling and grousing. In answer to which I say; No, I am not crazy, just realistic. (smile) So you have to get up and go to work? So what? We’re all alive and kicking, most of us have decent jobs in a somewhat free country, and most important of all, our magnificent God is constantly blessing us anew every day with mercy, LOVE, forgiveness, wisdom and understanding; just to name a few of His precious gifts. Now consider the alternative. Selah. And all God’s people declared a loud and glorious: ‘Thank you Lord for being so good to us, the undeserving children of men! We bless and praise your Holy Name!’ Now that’s more like it my people, that’s the response followers of Jesus ought to have! And to raise that attitude of excellence, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn with even more enthusiasm and sincerity. 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!’ And now that we’re on a roll, I’ll like to give thanks for the showers of heavenly water that finally fell in my area yesterday. I don’t know if it was really sufficient to quench the thirst of the parched earth, but we’re certainly thankful for even the smallest of mercies. And that’s exactly what our Bit encourages us to do: ‘O Give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy (LOVING-kindness) endureth for ever.’ Oh my people, that’s such an awesome truth, that when we truly believe it, it will revolutionize our lives for ever! And not believing it is also one reason why so many of us believers live less than peaceful, contented lives. Remember the most important part of Christianity is belief. Until we truly believe, then surrender our souls and our trust to God, nothing much will happen for us. The author of Psalm 106 corroborates our Bit in his opening verse: ‘Praise ye the Lord (Shout Hallelujah). O Give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.’ (Ps.106:1) Now that Psalm deals with Israel sinning against God’s LOVE, while our Bit talks about God’s wonderful works to the children of men, but they both acknowledge God’s goodness and mercy towards us till eternity. Now which other faith can boast such a promise eh? NONE, my Friends, NONE! Although the children of Israel did not cling to Him like they ought, and though He punished them for their disobedience, He did not utterly consume them, and made a way for them to return to His fold because of His faithful promise to their forefather Abraham. ‘Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will show thee. And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing.’ (Gen.12:1-2) Yes my people, the Lord kept His covenant, even with all the negative actions of His chosen people. And yuh know what? He’s still doing it today; still blessing us, still protecting us, in spite of our disobedience. And that same avenue for conviction and repentance is still open to all who sincerely seek it. Which other god – well really supposed god, for there’s ONLY ONE TRUE GOD, He of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob – is so generous, merciful and forgiving to His followers eh? Again my Friends, the answer is NONE! Now don’t think that we can live in constant disobedience and get away with it Scot free, for that’s not true. The Israelites were punished for turning against God and embracing Lucifer, and whether you want to believe it or not, we are now in the same boat, suffering all sorts of unusual stuff, for our wholesale embracing of the enemy. Now let’s end with some appropriate words of Bruh David from his psalm of thanksgiving when the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem. ‘O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever. And say ye, Save us, O God of our salvation, and gather us together, and deliver us from the heathen, that we may give thanks to thy holy name, and glory (triumph) in thy praise. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel for ever and ever. And all the people said, Amen, and praised the Lord.’ (1 Chr.16:34-36) Yes my brethren, let’s promise ourselves to practice that praiseworthy attitude towards our great and merciful God nuh, for it’s on His side, not Lucifer’s, that our bread is buttered. Much LOVE!…every good gift and every perfect gift is from above…and cometh down from the Father of lights…with whom is no variableness (variation, change)…neither shadow of turning… (James 1:17)
Today’s Scrip-Bit 13 April 2012 Luke 1:4
13 Apr 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: belief, certainty, comprehensive, enthusiasm, eyewitnesses, fellowship, Friday 13, gospel, relaxation, rest, sanctification, spiritual zest, understanding
Luke 1:4. That thou mighest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.
Ah mih old Friends, it’s Friday… And there’s an instantaneous shout: ‘TGIF! Thank God is Friday yes!’ Ah have to laugh, because after all the church going and heavy partying of last weekend, the work week must have been a tad on the rough side, and therefore everybody’s just dying for Friday to come. But it’s also Friday the 13th, Black Friday, you say. So what? We’ve just finished celebrating Good Friday and Easter Sunday, no evil spirit can touch or even come close to us now, cause we’re basking in the glory of a resurrected Christ, our Lord and Saviour! Just the joy and passion in our hearts and souls will send any evil spirit running away in fear! Remember though Friends that the weekend is not all fun and games, it’s also a time for some serious reflection on our lives. And to get us rounded out, let’s chant our Friday Chant like we mean it. I know the physical enthusiasm level is a bit low, but the spiritual zest is high, and combined with the spiritual strength of Jesus, we can surely roust the angels in heaven (smile) All together 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.’ Well that ought to raise the level of whatever was low and give us the right perspective for the weekend. So let’s turn to our Bit: ‘That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.’ Oh my people, that comes from the introduction of Luke’s gospel, where he sets out his reasons and otherwise for writing it. ‘Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration (narrative) of those things which are most surely believed among us. Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word; It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of (accurately followed) all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order (an orderly account), most excellent Theophilus.’ (Luke 1:1-3) Luke was a medical man; ‘the beloved physician,’ as Bruh Paul calls him in Col.4:14. He was not an eyewitness to Christ’s ministry, but associated with some who were, and also had access to written accounts of it and figured there was need to produce a comprehensive account of the whole thing. The scholars explain it best: ‘Luke states his purpose and method. He wants to supplement Theophilus’s knowledge of the grounds of Christian certainty. He also wants to give his own summation of the gospel events which, already in Luke’s time, are being committed to writing by various authors. As to method, Luke combines his knowledge of other writings with the eyewitness testimony of people he knows. He also lays claim to a comprehensive understanding, not only of historical data, but also of its theological significance. Theophilus means ‘Friend of God.’ By the way Luke addresses him he appears to have been a man of high standing.’ Yes Friends, though nobody knows who Theophilus was, luckily for us Luke had the desire to give him a sure foundation, strong groundings in the Word of Christ, which he must have heard of in his daily walk. Luke also mentions Theophilus in Acts 1:1, so he must have thought him worthy enough to pen two books; Luke and Acts, to show Theo that all the talk about Jesus was really real, and also to boost his faith, if he was a believer. Luke must certainly have been close to some of the old disciples and Bruh Paul, if the latter could call him ‘beloved.’ He must have also witnessed some of the stuff he writes in Acts. My purpose to day Friends, is the same as that of Luke to Theo; to tell us of the certainty of the things we’ve heard and been taught about Christ, and to encourage us to read, understand and use the gospels in our daily lives, so that we can back up and verify the teachings and our personal knowledge. That is the only way in which we can truly become knowledgeable about the life and times of Christ, the Saviour who we claim to follow. Thus when asked about our faith, why we believe, we can have a good and sure answer. And we’ll close with some meaningful words from one of the eyewitness to Jesus’ story, the beloved disciple, John. ‘And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through (in) his name.’ (John 20:30-31) And here’s an appropriate note from the scholars: ‘John tells us here he wrote the gospel for purposes of conversion, that ye might believe, and of sanctification, that ye might have life.’ Oh Friends, therefore let’s be wise nuh; let’s read the gospels and believe, so that we might be sanctified and enjoy all the other benefits of being a follower of Christ! Much LOVE!…to believe…to have faith…to hope for that we see not…to truly live for Jesus…is the most worthwhile earthly life we can ever live…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 12 April 2012 Psalm 41:1
12 Apr 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: blessing, compassion, dark clouds in the sky, deficit, deliverance, desert, food banks, governments, greedy, homeless, meditation, mercy, oasis, parched, promises, rain, resentful, taxes, thirsty
Psalm 41:1 Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble.
Ah Friends, like spring has finally sprung; all the trees are now budding, and the winds are blowing strong and cold. But one essential element is still missing; rain. Rain had been forecasted for the last couple days, but the only indication of that life giving substance has been a few dark clouds in the sky, eerily reminiscent of Elijah praying for rain. (1 Kin.18:44) (smile) Who knows why the rain isn’t falling, be it our interference with the weather system, or God’s judgement? But we do need the heavenly blessing to fall soon because the earth is dry and thirsty, parched from the lack of moisture. If there’s not enough rain the crops will suffer and the harvest won’t be plentiful. That’s the same way it is with us Friends; if there’s no spiritual rain, no God-sent moisture in our lives, our souls will become parched and dry up. If the Word of God doesn’t dwell richly in us, then our spirit dries up and looks more like a desert than the oasis it should resemble. And when our spirits lack the Word, then we become lustful, flesh followers, turning to the worldly activities and things associated with Lucifer. We become even more selfish, greedy, resentful and self-centred than we already are, and stop doing the things of Christ, like helping those in need, having mercy and compassion on the sick and hurting, ignoring the poor, homeless and hungry. And that’s certainly not the role Jesus called us to play on this earth! At times like those, reading, contemplating and inwardly digesting our Bit helps us to return to the path that Jesus identified for His followers. ‘Blessed is he that considereth the poor (helpless, powerless): the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble.’ Oh my people, that verse alone should galvanize us to help the suffering and hurting, because it’s a promise of God, and we know that He keeps all His promises. But even without that promise of compensation, our hearts ought to go out to those that are needy. Please remember where many of us came from. We weren’t all born to the prosperity we have today, and many of us were needy and suffering and helped by others to raise our level of living. So please don’t forget your roots like so many of us tend to do. And the unfortunate fact is that so many people are suffering today, in a time of supposed peace and plenty. So many are homeless; so many are forced to turn to food banks, a war time measure that’s been resurrected in these perilous times, and this in some of the world’s richest countries. Even the food banks are now running out of food because of their steadily increasing clientele. Why is that eh? Basically because of the inequality of the distribution of wealth. And it’s only going to get worse before it gets better, with the governments crying about deficits, laying off staff and cutting back expenditure in areas that only affect the lower classes and those already bearing the brunt of serious affliction. Man’s inhumanity to man has certainly not disappeared. In fact it seems to be getting worse, for if the rich and powerful have their way, we’d all go back to feudal times. There are calls, even from some rich, for the wealthy to pay more taxes. It’s a crying shame when a billionaire’s secretary pays more taxes than he does! But hey, which government has the parts to raise taxes on the rich eh? It ‘d be like biting the hand that feeds you, for they are all supported by the lobbyists of the rich and greedy who unleash them on the government to seek their best interests. But take heart mih people, this Easter Season of 2012 is a turning point in our fortunes. The passion and zeal which Christ’s death and resurrection have renewed and/or ignited in us, will definitely carry us forth, from strength, to strength, and finally to victory! Remember the Lord’s promised that the wicked will get their comeuppance eventually – death, damnation and eternal separation. Like wise, the righteous will be rewarded, but with salvation and eternal life. So as Bruh Paul encouraged the Galatians with the following words, so let us be also encouraged by them: ‘And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not (do not lose heart). As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.’ (Gal.6:9-10) Yes my brethren, although our resources may not be plentiful, we all have some that we can sacrifice and share with the less fortunate. Remember when you reach out to help someone else, particularly in a sacrificial manner, that’s the Spirit of Jesus working in you, for sacrifice is the backbone of His ministry and helping others is the whole purpose behind our faith. And as Bruh David continues after our Bit: ‘The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing (his sick-bed): thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness (restore him in his sick-bed).’ (Ps.41:2-3) Now that’s the living truth Friends! Jesus came to save the lost and helpless, and as His followers, that’s also our earthly purpose. So in these dire times, let’s not be overwhelmed by the world and all its selfish nonsense, but rather, let the true Spirit of Christ shine forth in us, by helping the less fortunate, for in due time we will be richly rewarded. ‘And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.’ (Col.3:23-24) Now that’s the gospel truth! Let us therefore go out and do it nuh! Much LOVE!…our world’s in a state of extreme ‘sufferation’…which will only be reduced by the sincere, Christ-like efforts…of sincere Christ-like believers…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 April 2012 Psalm 116:16
11 Apr 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: affliction, backsliding, faithful, fervour, humble, humility, new beginnings, passion, personal relationship, rededication, resolutions, servant, testimonies, worldwide happenings, zeal
Psalm 116:16. O Lord, truly I am thy servant; I am thy servant, and the son of thy handmaid: thou hast loosed my bonds.
Oh Friends, wasn’t it just the other day we celebrated New Years, the Western world version? So how come it’s already the middle of April eh? This year of 2012 is certainly moving along at breakneck speed, and with lots of mostly bad worldwide happenings too. Remember our resolutions at the start of the year? Rededicating ourselves to Christ; finding a new passion, a new zeal, a new longing for Him? So how are we doing on that now eh? Please check on it to see if we’re on target or backsliding. Has that flame been rekindled in our hearts and lives, are we walking along Christ’s path with a new flare, a new passion? I certainly hope so, because a quarter of the year’s already gone, which means we have to seriously buckle down and improve our LOVE-Walk, for that’s what truly living for Christ entails. That brings us to our Bit: ‘O Lord, truly I am thy servant; I am thy servant, and the son of thy handmaid: thou hast loosed my bonds.’ Oh my people, can we sincerely make those claims? I can definitely make one: ‘the son of thine handmaid.’ Yes, I am the son of a mother who faithfully worshipped the Lord, as are many of you readers. But unfortunately that’s not of much help unless some of that faithful worship of our parents got transferred into our own lives. Christ does acknowledge faithful family members, but His main goal is working in each individual, despite their family background. Relationship with God is a very personal thing, so until we can say individually, with much surety, like the psalmist, ‘O Lord, truly I am thy servant,’ the faithfulness of our parents doesn’t mean all that much. It will cause the Lord to look down on us with some favour, but it certainly won’t allow us to pass go and freely enter the halls of heaven. (smile) Friends, our destiny with heaven depends on our individual beliefs and subsequent behaviour. The author of Psalm 119 pleaded thus with the Lord: ‘Deal with thy servant according unto thy mercy (LOVING- kindness), and teach me thy statutes. I am thy servant; give me understanding; that I may know thy testimonies.’ (Ps.119:124-125) Yes fellow believers, until we humble ourselves, come down to a servant-like status, like Jesus did, we can’t effectively learn or disseminate God’s laws, for being a part of the Lord’s army entails much humility, much humbleness of mind, body and soul. Without it we can never be good ministers of His Word, good ambassadors of His lifestyle. That’s why Bruh David in Psalm 143, entreated the Lord: ‘Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness. Quicken (revive) me, O Lord, for thy name’s sake: for thy righteousness’ sake bring my soul out of trouble. And of thy mercy cut off (put an end to) mine enemies, and destroy all them that afflict my soul: for I am thy servant.’ (Ps.143:10-12) Ah Friends, living for the Lord God Jehovah is not easy, but if we’re serious, and truly turn to Him in trust, hope, faith and surrender, He will guide us through every situation and bring us out stronger and more faithful. In Romans 8:28, He’s promised that all things will work together for good to those who LOVE and serve Him, and also that we’re more than conquerors (Rom.8:37) And I can personally testify to both those promises, for if I wasn’t working under His protective banner, I would be out wandering aimlessly, like the Israelites, in some wilderness now. But because of my trying to be a God-faithful servant, I am living a life of prosperity. Now that doesn’t mean that my life is problem free, not by a long shot! In fact when you walk with God, you probably encounter more problems, as He tests you, raises the level of your faith and makes you more like Jesus. But throughout all the difficulties you’ll definitely have peace of mind and a deep trust that whatever happens, it will all work out for your good in the end, because the Lord has faithfully promised it. Unfortunately, you don’t learn or appreciate these things until you actually go through the fire and experience them. That’s why faith is such a big thing in our belief system. Now here’s an appropriate ending, which encompasses all we’ve spoken about. It’s from Psalm 86; Teach me thy way, O Lord. Bruh David is solemnly declaring: ‘But thou, O Lord, art a God of compassion, and gracious, long-suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. O turn unto me, and have mercy upon me; give thy strength unto thy servant, and save the son of thine handmaid. Show me a token (sign) for good; that they which hate me may see it, and be ashamed: because thou, Lord, hast helped me, and comforted me.’ (Ps.86:15-17) Without a doubt Friends, when we turn to the Lord in all sincerity, He will help and comfort us. Never forget that! Much LOVE!…to serve the Lord…in honesty and truth…is thy servant’s greatest desire…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 April 2012 Proverbs 19:15
10 Apr 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: circles, deprivation, diligence, holding hands, hunger, laziness, olive branch, poisoned dart, poverty, reality, sharing, slotfulness, want, work
Proverbs 19:15. Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.
Oh Friends, we’re going to begin this Easter Tuesday with a situation that ought to be a reality, but unfortunately is not. However, that’s what dreams, hope, faith and Jesus are there for; to convert unreal situations, bring them to light, life and reality. I’m referring to a very poignant quote from my ‘P.S. I LOVE YOU’ Poster, which declares in all sincerity: ‘The people on our planet are not standing in a line in single file. Look closely. Everyone is really standing in a circle holding hands. Whatever you give to the person standing next to you, it eventually comes back to you.’ Ah mih people, that’s the way it ought to be, but right now we’re surely not standing in a circle, and definitely not holding hands. How sad! This selfish generation is all about gathering for itself, forgetting others. In fact the very thought of sharing is absent from too many minds in our world. And all some of us are interested in holding out is a poisoned dart rather than an olive branch. Consequently, we have a rather messed up and troubled planet which is divided into roughly three work groups: those who work all the time – the supposed ‘A’ nature; those who seek a balance between work and play; and those who do very little or nothing. And with the poor economic times we’re currently experiencing, the last group is just getting bigger, not always through their own fault, but often through their inability to find work. Even the most diligent human, after a long, unsuccessful search for work loses that diligence and is primed for laziness and indifference. Our Bit today addresses those of the latter group. ‘Slothfulness (Laziness) casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.’ And isn’t that the awful truth! Laziness leads to all kinds of bad situations. Listen to Cousin Sol expound on that, in his warning against idleness and falsehood. ‘Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide (leader), overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat (food) in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest. How long wilt thou sleep (lie down), O sluggard? When wilt thou arise out of thy sleep? Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that traveleth (a prowler), and thy want (need) as an armed man.’ (Prov.6:6-11) Now here’s the scholars’ explanation of that: ‘The sluggard is the habitually lazy person. He is admonished to learn two important lessons from the ant: (1) the ant has no guide, overseer, or ruler (v.7) meaning that the ant does not need a taskmaster standing over it to make it work; it is a self-starter. (2) The ant is wise enough to prepare for predictable circumstances (v.8). Two questions about sleep are posed to the sluggard (v.9). His answer is given in verse 10: ‘Just a little bit more sleep!’ The result of such laziness is dire poverty, which will come as suddenly and decisively as a robber (v.11).’ Cousin Sol hit the nail right on the head there Friends, for slothfulness, laziness and their derivatives are definitely too prevalent in our society, especially amongst the younger generation, whom we spoiled by raising them in a pampered environment. Now they believe the world owes them a living, and a very good one at that. Poor children, suffering for their parents misguided thinking; that they shouldn’t have to work hard or suffer much want and need. But Friends, it’s those very things; hard work, want and need, that drive the human animal to get up and do productive stuff. When you lack or need nothing, there’s no incentive or need for you to do anything. And as our Bit says: ‘an idle soul shall suffer hunger.’ Now therein lies an absolute truth! Hear Cousin Sol on the contrast between the wise and the foolish: ‘He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack (negligent) hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.’ (Prov.10:4) A lazy person will never rise to great heights in any profession, even that of laziness, because to be really lazy takes hard work. (smile) But it’s true. Try it, and you’ll see. Some days I just want to laze around, and because I’m somewhat diligent, I have to force myself, work seriously at being lazy. Listen to another of Cousin Sol’s sayings on the topic: ‘The soul of the sluggard (lazy) desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat (rich).’ (Prov.13:4) And here’s the same thing put a different way: ‘The thoughts (plans) of the diligent tend (lead) only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want (surely to poverty).’ (Prov.21:5) Oh my brethren, the prevalence of laziness, sloppiness and overall deteriorating standards are helping to downgrade our society. I know that plenty can’t find work, but there’s also a core group that delights in doing nothing, just living off whatever and whomever is available. That’s the group we need to target if we hope to turn things around. And we’ll end with some wise advice from Bruh Paul to the Thessalonians: ‘For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.’ (2 Thess.3:10-12) Though it might be a bit harsh for those who truly seek but can’t find work, for the constant slacker it should be a rule of law, it’s the only way to get them up and doing something constructive. Much LOVE!…let’s make the dream a reality…everybody standing in a circle…holding hands…sharing peace, LOVE, harmony…and Jesus…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 April 2012 Matthew 28:6
09 Apr 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: blessings, celebrations, confidence, Creator, enthusiasm, friends, Jesus Christ, lord god, passion, renewed vitality, resurrection, universe
Matthew 28:6. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come see the place where the Lord lay.
EASTER MONDAY
Ah mih people, it’s Easter Monday, and for those lucky ones who have the day off, the partying is still going strong. But unfortunately some working stiffs have to labour on what’s supposed to be a tremendously joyous occasion. That means we still need to sing our Monday Morning Battle hymn to help them on their way. That’s what good Friends are for! (smile) So with exceptionally loud and joyful voices that truly reflect Jesus’ resurrection, let’s belt it out in all faithfulness. On three now: one, two, three: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ And for those of you going to work, may the Lord bless and keep you safe as you battle the evil enemy in His Name. Meanwhile, those of you who are lucky to be at home, or out enjoying food, drink and good company, please remember the reason for the season and your celebrations. Somewhere in the festivities please spend some time contemplating Jesus’ passion, which resulted in your wonderful free gift of Salvation and Eternal Life, and whisper, or better yet, shout up some thanks to heaven, acknowledging your sincere gratitude for His selfless sacrifice. Now let’s look at our Bit. ‘He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come see the place where the Lord lay.’ That’s what the angel of the Lord told the women who came to visit Jesus’ tomb on Easter Sunday. They were obviously afraid when they saw the stone rolled back from the tomb’s mouth and the angel sitting on it. But he convinced them that everything was okay and they should go and tell the rest of the disciples that Jesus was risen. Here is some interesting info from the scholars, re Christ’s Resurrection: ‘The resurrection of Christ included five accomplishments: (1) the physical renewing of His life; (2) the reunion of His body and His Spirit; (3) the subjugation of death under Him; (4) the attachment of His new position; and (5) His receiving a transfigured body. Application: Because of the Resurrection, the Christian receives both eternal life (John 11:25) and spiritual power (Eph 1:19,20). Christ’s resurrection also provides for the future resurrection of the believer (1 Cor.15:20) and is the key to victory in the Christian life because of our union with Christ (Eph:2:6)’ And all God’s people raised a triumphant shout of joy to heaven: ‘Oh thank you Jesus for saving our sinful souls from the pangs of death and eternal separation from the Father. Without your obedient intercession it wouldn’t be possible. We therefore praise and bless Your Holy Name! Amen!’ Yes Friends, please read those scriptures listed above so you can better understand what they’re talking about, and every time we think about Jesus’ unselfish action on our behalf, we ought to offer up some sincere thanks and praise, then try to live a life worthy of him and His principles, for that’s all we can ever do to show our gratitude. Now here is a scripture I planned to share and it just turns out to be the scholars First Reference in their info above. It comes from Psalm 16, Bruh David’s Michtam (Contemplation) where he seeks preservation and blessing: ‘I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest (dwell securely) in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer (allow) thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for ever more.’ (Ps.16:8-11) Oh my people the verse that the scholars talk about is (10) the one in bold lettering, but the whole passage was too appropriate to this Easter season with the promise of hope, joy and the Lord’s presence, that I had to include it all. The ole fella can get emotional! (smile) And here’s another verse that tells about resurrection and life after death from Psalm 49, Trust in God, not wealth: ‘They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give God a ransom for him: For the redemption of their soul is precious (costly), and it ceaseth for ever: But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. Selah. (Ps.49:6-8,15) Ah Friends, that brings to mind some of Jesus words on the subject: ‘For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? (Matt.17:26) And the answer to that Friends, is a big, fat NOTHING! Therefore let’s enjoy the Easter season, celebrate and rejoice that the triumvirate God we worship, LOVED us enough to pay such a hefty sacrifice to redeem our sinful souls. But now it’s time for us to go out and do our duty by spreading that good news to all the earth, so that all the earth can rejoice and be saved, thus glorifying God and furthering His glorious kingdom. Much LOVE!…when others get to hear about and know the real Jesus…they will accept and LOVE Him… just as much as we do… P.S. Ah Friends, I don’t know if the Bit is as cohesive and coherent as I’d like, because I struggled through some external distractions as well as my own mental insufficiency. But I’m not worried since I know that true believers have the God-given ability to pick sense from nonsense. (smile) Much LOVE!
Today’s Scrip-Bit 8 April 2012 Matthew 12:40
08 Apr 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: clean heart, crucified, exalted, glory hallelujah, grave, knee shall bend, prophet hosea, prophetic scripture, resurrection, right spirit, risen Christ. Easter Sunday
Matthew 12:40. For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly, so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
HAPPY EASTER !
Oh Friends, oh Friends, it’s Easter Sunday Morning! That means Christ is risen! Yes he is risen! Christ is risen indeed! Glory Hallelujah! And that’s the best news a sad and sorrowful world can ever receive; that the crucified Messiah is now alive and kicking, having risen from the grave, thus defeating death and victoriously bringing us Salvation and Eternal Life! Wow! What excellent, life changing news! And all God’s children declared a sincere, heartfelt, ‘Thank You Jesus!’ And you’ll notice that I was guided to an offbeat scripture for today’s resurrection. I considered several, had even decided on one, but then saw this one and immediately felt the unequivocal pull of the Spirit. In fact the entire Bit looks like it will be offbeat, not getting in to all the usual scriptures and images of the resurrection, like visiting the tomb, etc. but more touching the fringes, trying to bring other insights to the normal ones we use every year. Read the gospels yourselves so you can get caught up on the good news. (smile) Now let’s turn to our Bit: ‘For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the whale’s (big fish’s) belly, so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.’ Jesus was referring there to Jonah’s calamity when he disobeyed God. ‘Now the Lord had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.’ (Jon.1:17) And Jesus did fulfill those prophetic words of His on Easter Sunday, today. And seeing how prophecy is constantly fulfilled in the Good Book is one of the great joys of believers, which in turn leads us to confident trust and assurance in the Lord and His Word. Let’s slip in another prophetic scripture that was also satisfied today: It’s the prophet Hosea with God’s reply to Israel’s admonishment. ‘After two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight.’ (Hos.6:2) What gospel truth! Oh my people, Easter Sunday is surely one of, if not the most important day in the Christian calendar, because it’s the day that truly brought us hope and assurance of a faithful God, who LOVES us with such a deep, abiding LOVE, that He was willing to forsake, to burden His Son with our sins, so that we could be set free from Beelzebub’s lethal grasp. For that we should be eternally grateful. It’s when the light really came shining through the darkness to proclaim that there was a better way; one filled with peace, LOVE, comfort and faithfulness. We no longer had to be troubled about our daily lives but could now rest in the assurance of the risen Lord and Saviour, the ONE and ONLY Jesus Christ to safely lead and guide us. Who, for His unswerving obedience to sacrifice His holy, sinless life for undeserving sinners, the Father honoured and exalted to the highest position in the kingdom, before whom all heads must now bow and all knees bend. (Phil.2:10) Mark Jesus’ words to His disciples: ‘Greater LOVE hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ (John 15:13) And that’s exactly what He did people: lay down His life for us, His friends. What selflessness! Unfortunately though my brethren, there are still lots of people who don’t even know that Jesus exists. They still haven’t heard about His unusual birth, His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, news that enriches our lives like nothing else can. Jesus is our Lord, Saviour, Protector, Guide, Advocate… in fact our Everything. And the Holy Spirit just reminded me that I’ve been saving the next episode of My Jesus is…Everything from Anne Graham Lotz’s book of the same name for today, because this one is so appropriate to the Easter Season. Pay attention now and behold the wonder that’s Jesus! (smile) ‘My Jesus – His office is manifold, and His promise is sure. His life is matchless, and His goodness is limitless. His mercy is enough, and His grace is sufficient. His reign is righteous, His yoke is easy, and His burden is light. He is indestructible. He is indescribable. He is incomprehensible. He is inescapable. He is invincible. He is irresistible. He is irrefutable. I can’t get Him out of my mind…And I can’t get Him out of my heart. I can’t outlive Him…And I can’t live without Him. The Pharisees couldn’t stand Him, but found they couldn’t stop Him. Satan tried to tempt Him, but found he couldn’t trip Him. Pilot examined Him on trial, but found he couldn’t fault Him. The Romans crucified Him, but found they couldn’t take His life. Death couldn’t handle Him, and the grave couldn’t hold Him. My Jesus…is Everything.’ Yes mih breddren, Jesus is all those things…and plenty plenty more. To be truthful, whatever you want Jesus to be, He can be. Your sincerely wanting it, with a clean heart and right spirit, will make it possible, provided it’s in tune with God’s will obviously. Ah Friends, with the wonder of Easter and Christ’s awesome resurrection bubbling joyfully in out hearts and souls, and being true and faithful disciples of Jesus, let’s do as He asks: ‘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) That means going out and bearing our crosses without whining and complaining, just relying on Jesus, like He staunchly and steadfastly bore His, relying on His Father. And if we do, Jesus will raise us up and exalt us, the same way His Father raised Him up and exalted Him. Oh Friends, what a wonderful life is to be found worshipping Jesus as our Lord and Saviour! Let’s stop being selfish and spread the glorious news all over the world as He desires, so that all the world will come to know, LOVE, abide in and live for Him, thus furthering His LOVE Revolution and tremendously glorifying the Father! It’s the only wise way to live. Have a happy and joyful Easter Friends, including fellowship with other believers, because that’s very important to our staying strong and faithful. But remember, drunk or sober, mind yuh business, so that the evil Lucifer won’t intrude and cause us to go astray. Much LOVE!…oh, if all the world could only know and accept Jesus…what a truly wonderful world this would be…let’s work seriously on it nuh people…
