Jeremiah 42:21. And now I have this day declared it to you; but ye have not obeyed the voice of the Lord your God, nor any thing for the which he hath sent me unto you.
Oh Friends, another beautiful fall day is expected in my area! For this pleasure, we can all say a grateful ‘Thank You Lord!’ It’s been a delightful autumn so far; much more sunshine and temps in the teens than cold winds and rain. But like all earthly things, it’s not going to last forever, so let’s be thankful and enjoy it now, because as soon as the first snow flies, we’ll all be moaning and groaning. (smile) And today I have a quote to share from the Covenant House Calendar, attributed to George Bernard Shaw, the noted Irish playwright (1856-1950). He claims that ‘Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.’ I guess as a playwright, which means creating plays, that would be his natural feeling, but I tend to think it’s more like half and half. In the sense that in our early years we’re young and inexperienced and we’re constantly seeking direction, plus the excitement and whatever else life has to offer. We’re looking for answers to questions we sometimes don’t even know. This could prove to be quite confusing and frustrating. However, by the time we reach adulthood, hopefully we’ve seen enough of life to know how it operates, and above all, we’ve found God’s purpose for our lives. Oh Friends, that is definitely the most important thing for us to seek and find! Now it’s not always an easy task, and we don’t always find it at an early age, but if with patience we persevere, we’ll find it, God will guide us to it eventually. And once we’ve found God’s purpose for us, then the creating seriously begins! Regardless of God’s earthly purpose, we must try to create ourselves in the image that God desires, that of Jesus. Note that there are two separate actions involved here, purpose and desire. All the purposes, (read careers and the like) may differ and vary substantially, since it takes all types to make the world go round, but the desire is always the same; to remake us in the perfect image of Christ. Our Bit though highlights the problem between finding and creating ourselves. ‘And now I have this day declared it to you; but ye have not obeyed the voice of the Lord your God, nor any thing for the which he hath sent me unto you.’ Now what’s wrong with this picture eh? The Israelites, in one of their many times of trouble, had asked Jeremiah to pray to the Lord for guidance. They wanted to flee to Egypt to escape their enemies, but the Lord’s message said stay put. If they did as He asked, He would build them up and not tear them down. (Jer.32:7-12) Unfortunately, God’s will conflicted with the Israelites’ plans. And though we righteously proclaim that we trust God and want to know His will, when we receive it and it differs from ours, we get right royally upset. This is what happened to the Israelites, and unfortunately it’s also happening to us today. God’s will is for us to turn to and stay close to Him, but we seem to prefer the licentiousness of Lucifer, the ruler of darkness. As the scholars so rightly claim, much too often believers ask to hear only what pleases them. That is borne out by Bruh Paul’s charge to Timothy. ‘For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.’ (2 Tim.4:3-4) Consequently, these believers pray on false grounds, as James notes: ‘Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts (pleasures).’ (James 4:3) And isn’t that the living truth Friends! This happens because we foolishly and selfishly expect God to merely validate whatever we desire. But my people that’s never going to happen, unless our desires fall into line with God’s plans. Again sadly, on an even greater scale than in Jeremiah’s time, that is a source of much worry, contention and disbelief in this confused society of ours. A majority of the world is trumpeting Lucifer’s unfortunate rise to glory, therefore many of us, falsely believing it, pray to God to give us the earthly trappings of wealth and power so that we can use it to enjoy the fleshly lusts that Lucifer promotes. But please remember Friends, the most important thing to our God, is the state of our hearts, our motives. If those aren’t right, don’t truly reflect God’s Word and Will, then all our prayers are doomed to failure. Now nothing is wrong with having the trappings of wealth and power, many Christians have them, but they must be earned through right motives and doing God’s will, not merely for the purpose of enjoying the fleshly pleasures they can provide. Remember too that no one can out give God. Just look at Cousin Sol, who asked for wisdom and understanding and became the poster boy for the Lord’s generosity even to this day. And we’ll close to day with some words on the futility of relying on anyone or anything else other than Jehovah God. Hear Isaiah tell it like it is: ‘Woe to the rebellious children, saith the Lord, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering (devise plans, weave a web), but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin.’ (Is.30:1) Oh Friends, please, let’s allow God to be the supreme ruler and arbiter in our lives. It’s the only way to live wisely in this our earthly pilgrimage. Much LOVE!…now unto him…that is able to do exceeding abundantly…above all that we ask or think…according to the power that worketh in us…unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus…throughout all ages…world without end…Amen… (Eph.3:20-21)
Today’s Scrip-Bit 8 November 2011 Jeremiah 42:21
08 Nov 2011 Leave a comment
Today’s Scrip-Bit 7 November 2011 Psalm 18:32
07 Nov 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 18:32. It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect.
(In song) ‘Rise up, rise up my people, And greet Monday Morning’s light. Time to join the battle. Put on your armour bright; So that you’ll be protected, And walk the path’s that right. Hallelujah! Amen!’ Oh Friends, this Monday morning we singing plenty, because the Lord, in His infinite wisdom, advised me to greet you in song, rather than crude speech, in the hope that you’ll rise and shine in a better mood, than you normally do on Mondays. Now it did seem to work, since I didn’t receive as much abuse as usual. ‘Praise the Lord!’ (smile) Anyway, I know a handful of you are dying to get back to work because you’re suffering from ‘JOBCATION.’ That’s a term I saw in a comic strip today, which means that your weekend is so jam-packed, going back to work seems like a holiday. And it does happen, for I’ve experienced it occasionally. You‘re just glad to get out of the house and away from all the inherent chores and go back to work to rest. However Friends, whether we’re happy or sad to begin the workweek, we all need to be strengthened and well armoured before we get out there, so let’s confidently approach the throne of grace and sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn in loud but reverent tones. On three: and a 1, and a 2, and a 3: ‘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!’ Yes mih people, we all set to go out and give Beelzebub heck now! And as always, our God never ceases to amaze me. I was having trouble finding a Bit I could get my head around, when suddenly I saw this verse; ‘It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect.’ And I had a ‘Eureka!’ moment. Yes Friends, it’s perfect for today, because it fits in nicely with our Monday Morning Battle Hymn. Yuh see mih breddren, it’s true that the Lord doesn’t ever leave you in a lurch, but does enable you. There I was, beginning to get antsy, ready to pull my hair out (some exaggeration) because I couldn’t find a Bit. But in the fullness of the Lord’s time, I was led to one, and a most appropriate one at that. Psalm 18 is one of Bruh David’s long ones (50 verses), where he’s offering thanks for deliverance from all his enemies, especially Saul. And he had no doubts whatsoever that it was the God of his fathers, whom he had been worshipping from a tender age, who had given him the strength and courage to stand strong and fight his enemies. Oh Friends, our God does the same for each of us, his faithful children, when we call upon Him in honesty and truth. That’s why we sing His praises and ask for strength and guidance every Monday Morning, as we face the evil world again. And we’ll close with two examples of psalmists extolling our God’s greatness. The first comes from Bruh David’s contemplation while hiding in the cave in the wilderness from Saul. ‘I cried unto thee, O Lord: I said, Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living…Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about (surround me); for thou shalt deal bountifully with me.’ (Ps.142:5,7) And we all know that the Lord did just that! The second scripture comes from Psalm 91, where the psalmist assures the faithful of God’s protection. ‘I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler (bird trapper), and from the noisome (perilous or deadly) pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust (take refuge): his truth shall be thy shield and buckler (small shield). Thou shalt not be afraid for (of) the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth (lays waste) at noonday.’ (Ps.91:2-6) Oh Friends, there’s truth in every statement there, I can personally attest to it. So please take heart and let the Lord God Jehovah be your guide. You will never regret it. Much LOVE!…who better to trust…than our Creator…Provider…Protector…and our sovereign God…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 6 November 2011 Psalm 85:4
06 Nov 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 85:4. Turn us, O God of our salvation, and cause thine anger toward us to cease.
Oh Friends, a blessed Sunday morning to all! I do hope, wish and pray that the sincere LOVE of God is secreted in all our hearts, as we begin a new day of abiding in His will because it’s only with true LOVE permeating our entire beings that we can ever really do His bidding. As I read over that last sentence, I had to chuckle, since it sounds so much like one of Bruh Paul’s convoluted, confusing sentences. But in obstinacy, I refused to rewrite it. (smile) Anyway, I also hope that most of us are preparing to go to church, to worship and praise our most faithful and generous God in company with other believers, which is definitely necessary to both build and keep each other’s faith strong and encouraged. Without consistent fellowship between believers, our faith slowly drains away, until it becomes non-existent, a very sad and disturbing occurrence for supposed followers of Jesus. And as we fellowship today Friends, let’s contemplate on, and seriously pray the words of our Bit. ‘Turn (restore) us, O God of our salvation, and cause thine anger toward us to cease.’ Oh my people, I don’t know if you’re aware of it, but our God is very angry at us at this particular stage of our evolution, for we have blatantly forsaken Him and His will, and have unashamedly taken up with the idols, lusts and lies of Lucifer. Our world has become so sinful that it’s a burning shame and disgrace to us, along with a terrible rejection of God, a veritable slap in the face, after all He’s done for us, undeserving sinners. I guess our natural sinfulness has eventually won out. According to the scholars, Psalm 85 was written at a time of national humiliation. And are we ever in times of humiliation my brethren! What’s supposed to be the brightest and best generation ever of mankind has made a right royal mess of not only individual nations, but of our entire world. Just take a look at our disastrous economic situation, the joblessness, the homelessness, the fear, anxiety, strife, the natural disasters and overall negative state of our world. I read one statistic today that says 54, 000 jobs were lost in Canada this past month. Yes Friends, you read it right, fifty four thousand jobs. I won’t even try to estimate the fall out from that. Now though the details are lacking as to the why and when of Israel’s humiliation, it can be seen from the following verses that the people are asking for God’s anger to cease, for national revival – we need worldwide revival – and for a new display of His mercy. Listen to the psalmist plead our case: ‘Wilt thou be angry with us for ever? Wilt thou draw out (prolong) thine anger to all generations? Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee? Show us thy mercy, O Lord, and grant us thy salvation.’ (Ps.85:5-7) Oh Friends, it’s all well and good to ask God for help, mercy and forgiveness, but until we sincerely repent of our evil ways and begin walking in His will, no help, mercy, or forgiveness will be granted. We first have to prove to God that we’ve changed, that Lucifer and his earthly things no longer come first in our hearts, but the things of heaven and Almighty God have regained first place. Wow! What a day of rejoicing that will be in heaven my people! And as the psalmist continues: ‘I will hear what God the Lord will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly (foolishness).’ (Ps.85:8) And therein lies the crux of the matter Friends; whether we will turn again to sinful foolishness if the Lord has mercy on us and heals our world. We’ve seen how often the Israelites, God’s chosen people, went from repentance back to folly and He was always gracious to forgive them. However Friends, I believe that God is really tired of our stupidity and is getting ready to pull the plug on us, and all our pleading, without real repentance won’t do any good, not until He sees real change in our hearts and our behaviour. Hear Jeremiah’s words in his prayer for suffering from Lamentations: ‘Wherefore dost thou forget us for ever, and forsake us so long time? Turn thou us unto (back to) thee, O Lord, and we shall be turned; renew our days as of old. But (Unless) thou hast utterly rejected it us; thou art very wroth (angry) against us.’ (Lam.5:20-22) And yuh better believe Friends that our God is very angry at us, so it’s up to us to do something to appease His wrath. And we all know that calls for true conviction and repentance. So let’s do it nuh. Why be foolish when we can be wise eh? Much LOVE!…instead of being penny wise and pound foolish…be pound wise and penny foolish…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 5 November 2011 Psalm 22:28
05 Nov 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 22:28. For the kingdom is the Lord’s: and he is the governor among the nations.
Oh Friends, what else can I say to our great God but ‘Thank You’ for allowing me to see another beautiful day here on planet earth? Being in heaven with Him would certainly be wonderful, but I guess He’s given me an earthly job to do which I haven’t done as yet. I certainly have not achieved the desires He’s put in my heart, which means my pilgrimage down here has longer to go. Anyway, enough of my philosophising, here’s some much more practical information. A week or so ago, I shared a quote from the booklet ‘Happiness for Life,’ which talked about asking God for enlightenment and understanding before opening the Good Book. Well lo and behold, recently I was looking though my mother’s Bible and what do you think I found written on the flyleaf of the back cover? A prayer for just such instance that says: ‘Dear heavenly Father, as I open my Bible, I pray that you will let my heart find peace. As my mind is filled with new understanding, grant that I may learn the things you want me to know from the words I read. Bless me to find the courage, the comfort, the joy, these pages can bring as I read about Jesus, our greatest teacher. Amen.’ Wow! I don’t know where she got it from, but I think it’s very appropriate and intend to use it. You can too, if you so desire. The important thing though, is to ask for God’s help to understand His Word, before we begin reading it, regardless of how we phrase our request. That brings us to our Bit: ‘For the kingdom is the Lord’s: and he is the governor among the nations.’ And I have to emphasize again today Friends, that that’s the ultimate truth! Our God created the universe and all it contains from nothing. And He hasn’t given up control of it either, though some foolish people, like the fallen angel Lucifer, who should know better, keep trying to wrest it from Him. But remember Jesus’ words at the end of what we call ‘The Lord’s Prayer.’ ‘And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil (the evil one): For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.’ (Matt.6:13) Yes my brethren, the entire universe is our God’s kingdom. He is the power that spoke it into existence, as well as kept it going till now. It’s also His decision when to end it, as He’s promised to do. Even Jesus didn’t know when that would be. ‘But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.’ (Matt.24:36) So all glory should definitely be given to our wonderful God, not the li’l fool-fool boy Lucifer, who has nothing really good or lasting to offer. And check out Bruh Paul’s words on the subject nuh. ‘Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.’ (1 Tim.1:17) Bruh Paul, in no uncertain manner, declares the majesty and greatness of our wise God, the ONE and ONLY ONE, who deserves honour and glory for ever. That would be most fitting just because of His LOVING-kindness, His merciful, forgiving and blessed ways. So can you imagine if we add His omnipotence, His omniscience, His omnipresence to all that, what a mighty Being we’re talking about? One most definitely worthy of exaltation, honour, worship and glory! Now listen to what the apostle John saw when the last days were revealed to him. When the Lamb took the Book of Life to open it, all the elders and beasts fell down and worshipped Him, and sang a new song re His worthiness to open the Book. (Rev.5:5-12) Then John says: ‘And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. And the four beasts (living creatures) said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.’ (Rev.5:13-14) Oh my people, as true believers, we know that our magnificent God, Jehovah is the ONE TRUE God, and as such we praise, revere and worship Him. Unfortunately though, a majority of the earth’s population don’t know or care about Him, which is truly sad. However, it is our job, our bounden duty, to bring them to the great realization of Jesus, the Son, God, the Father and the Holy Spirit, so that they may be enlightened and saved from their sins as we so fortunately are. So please, let’s seriously be about our Heavenly Father’s business nuh, especially in these critical times, just as Jesus was in His earthly sojourn. He’s depending on us not to lose even one of His children to Beelzebub. Much LOVE!…faithfully serving…and enthusiastically talking…about our great God…is our only reason to be…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 4 November 2011 Psalm 22:28
04 Nov 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 22:28. For the kingdom is the Lord’s: and he is the governor among the nations.
Oh Friends, it’s Friday… But it’s obvious you already know that from the cries of ‘TGIF!’ and ‘Thank God it’s Friday!’ that I hear, along with the rocking riddim of the riddim section. The difference between a Friday and Monday morning is truly amazing, showing the highs and lows of which the human spirit is capable. Anyway, it’s the end of the workweek, and we’re all glad for the short respite from worldly toil, so let’s chant our Friday Chant, so that we can keep the important things in proper perspective. 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.’ Now Friends, turning to our Bit, which, though simple, is of the utmost importance to our Christian faith. We can’t be true believers unless we accept Bruh David’s words from his contradictory psalm, a cry of anguish and song of praise. ‘For the kingdom is the Lord’s: and he is the governor among the nations.’ That my brethren is the basis of all Christianity! It’s one indisputable proclamation which all believers acknowledge as the ultimate truth! Our faith declares that the Lord God Jehovah, He of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, created the universe and all therein ages ago, and He still runs it. It’s His personal fiefdom, to do with as he pleases. And once we sincerely believe that, then we’re on our way to righteousness and eventually salvation and eternal life in heaven with the Holy Trinity. Wow! What a wonderful feeling that brings to our souls, hearts and minds my people! The most awesome feeling we can ever experience is that engendered by the unconditional LOVE that the Creator of the universe bears for us, and so graciously showed by sacrificing His Son Jesus to pay for our sins. And all God’s people, prayerfully declared, with much gratitude: ‘Thank you Lord. There’s none other like you!’ And that’s another undisputable fact! Oh Friends, if there’s one thing I admire about Bruh David, is that he definitely knew on which side his bread was buttered, for throughout all the shenanigans in his life, from the time he was anointed the future king at a tender age, till his death, he never wavered or strayed from worshipping and following the God of his fathers. Now let’s end today with some of his immortal words, as he offers thanksgiving and prayer to his heavenly Father. ‘Wherefore David blessed the Lord before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed be thou, Lord God of Israel our father, for ever and ever. Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.’ (1 Chron.29:10-13) And yuh know Friends, the Lord blessed Bruh David eternally for his immense faith. It’s the same way He will bless us if we truly believe that He is Lord and God over all creation, and adhere as best we can to His will. Much LOVE!…there’s nothing more pleasing to God…than His children sincerely trying to please Him… P.S. Brother! I can’t believe it’s so short today. There must be many smiles and thank you Lord from the readers. (smile) Much LOVE!
Today’s Scrip-Bit 3 November 2011 Proverbs 17:9
03 Nov 2011 Leave a comment
Proverbs 17:9. He that covereth a transgression seeketh LOVE; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.
Oh Friends, you need to show the ole fella some true Christianity, some real LOVE this morning. I got caught up in catching up with some overdue paperwork until a late hour last night. Then faithfully, I attempted to write the Bit, but found it wasn’t going according to my satisfaction because I was mentally tired. So I decided to get into relaxation mode, which caused me to go to bed in the wee hours of the morning. And like it does so often, my frail human body betrayed me; (smile) I didn’t get up until past the appointed time. Anyway, the mind seems fresh right now, just like the many new mercies and blessings the Lord rains down on us every day. So without further preamble, let’s delve right into our Bit, which conveys an absolute imperative for all true believers. ‘He that covereth a transgression seeketh LOVE; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very (the best of) friends.’ And isn’t that both the awesome and awful truth! In short, when we forgive transgressions against us, we’re being truly Christ-like, showing His true dimension of LOVE. However, when we behave like chatterboxes, continually running off our mouths, especially about things we don’t really know, we tend to kill good relationships. Please, please remember my people, that nothing in this world destroys friendships like idle gossip. Cousin Sol was quite aware of this, and earlier on in Proverbs said it this way: ‘Hatred stirreth up strifes: but LOVE covereth all sins.’ (Prov.10:12) And that’s an indisputable truth that all believers need to write indelibly in our hearts, souls and minds so that most of the time we can be covering sins, rather than stirring up strife. Because of our naturally fallen condition, we’ll never be perfect, and strife will occasionally come into our lives, but we must be very careful to eradicate it as soon as possible, and not let it linger in our spirits and eventually become firmly embedded there. And in the immortal words of James, re saving an erring brother: ‘Brethren, if any of you do err (wander) from the truth, and one convert him (turns him back); Let him know, that he which converteth (turns) the sinner from the error of his ways shall save a soul from death, and shall hide (cover) a multitude of sins.’ (James 5:19-20) Yes Friends, when we help someone to overcome their shortcomings with LOVE, we’re doing a wonderful work for Jesus. That’s as opposed to Sol’s contention: ‘A froward (perverse) man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief (the best of) friends.’ (Prov.16:28) And believe me, we certainly have too many busybodies and gossips in the church today. It’s one of the major causes of strife, dissension and divisiveness that’s currently wracking apart the Body of Christ. Instead of helping others to overcome their deficiencies, too many of us go around spreading tales about those deficiencies. And sadly, by the time the gossip makes the rounds, it’s been changed so much that it bears very little resemblance to how it began. That’s the major problem in gossip Friends; every teller adds their own take on it, so that it’s totally distorted and even further removed from any truth it originally contained. Now that kind of behaviour should never be numbered amongst believers. We should always walk in the way of LOVE. And what’s that you ask? I’ll let Bruh Paul tell us: ‘Charity (LOVE) suffereth long, and is kind; LOVE envieth not; LOVE vaunteth not itself (does not brag or boast), is not puffed up (arrogant). Doth not behave itself unseemly (rudely), seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil (keeps no account of evil); Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.’ (1 Cor.13:4-7) That’s how believers walk in LOVE my brethren! It’s a dying to self like Jesus did. Unfortunately that sort of LOVE walk is not as prevalent in churches and Christian circles as it ought to be. Oh Friends, we all know that LOVE, the very essence of God’s Being, is the only thing that can bring and keep us sinful humans together under Christ’s wonderful banner. So why are we so reluctant to embrace and share it eh? Please, let’s try and change our gossipy tendencies nuh, and replace them with ones of LOVE, so that we aren’t inviting strife and all the other negative emotions it entails, into our lives. That’s the only way Christ’s Church will become strong and grow. Remember, that’s our great commission. Much LOVE!…and now abideth…faith…hope…LOVE…these three…but the greatest of these…is LOVE…(1 Cor.13:13)
Today’s Scrip-Bit 2 November 2011 Isaiah 28:29
02 Nov 2011 Leave a comment
Isaiah 28:29. This also cometh forth from the Lord of hosts, which is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working.
Oh Friends, we’ve got to put on our praying caps again today for those unlucky people on the north east coast of North America, who were hit by the untimely and unseasonable snowstorm last weekend. Unfortunately over a million of them are still without heat, light and power in these fast approaching days of winter. This tragedy, coming so soon after Hurricane Irene in August, surely must have some people wondering what’s happening. But there’s nothing to really wonder about Friends. It’s basically a warning sign for the sinful, ungodly, wasteful life that’s become the norm in our society. And unless we clean up our act, and fast too, these untimely, unexpected disasters will keep happening. Just look back in history nuh. When we were living a more godly life, when God was in our schools, churches, and public places, were there as many natural disasters, so often, and so deadly? I don’t think so. Between our senseless tampering with the earth’s atmosphere and God’s hand of warning, we’re seeing many more natural disasters taking place all over the world. And our Bit today is taken from Isaiah’s warning to the people of Jerusalem re their evil, godless ways, which would eventually bring the wrath of God upon them. Sadly, Friends, it’s no different today. In fact it’s worse, because we’re living a much more sinful and ungodly life than possibly any other society that’s gone before us. Our Bit though points out the foolishness in that lifestyle and guides us in the right direction. ‘This also cometh forth from the Lord of hosts, which is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working (guidance).’ Yes my people, it’s to the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob to whom we must look for help and succour, for assurance and right thinking. And until we do so in a big way, our world will continue to be struck by much calamity. Now why should we look to Jehovah God for guidance? Because He created the world and all therein, He’s the most powerful Being in existence, and He still runs things. In other words, He’s the big Sahib, the big Chief! Hear the palmist’s proclamation on that point. ‘O Lord, how great are thy works! And thy thoughts are very deep. A brutish (senseless) man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this.’ (Ps.92:5-6) Isaiah himself also spoke some immortal words on the subject. ‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.’ (Is.9:6) We know that he was referring to the Messiah, Jesus; the One who would sacrifice Himself to pay for our disgusting sins. So why aren’t we paying more attention to Jesus and His wise ways eh Friends? Why is our world currently so enamoured of the dark side of life? In movies, music, books and social gatherings, the dark side prevails these days. So what else can we expect but dark, dangerous happenings in our lives? They say if you play with fire, it will burn you. The same goes for darkness my brethren. If you play with the dark, ugly, evil side of life, it will eventually suck you into its destructive vortex. Oh my people, it’s on the Lord God Jehovah, on Jesus, that bastion of light and power on whom our thoughts and activities should be focused. Beelzebub doesn’t create anything, he’s only into death and destruction, while our God, our Jesus, brings life and light to those who sincerely follow Him. Bruh David said it thus in praise for answered prayer: ‘Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee (recounted): if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.’ (Ps.40:5) What has Beelzebub done for us to shower that kind of praise on him eh? NOTHING…NADA, my Friends! That’s why I can’t understand why we have turned to him in such droves, completely bypassing our true Creator, Protector and Provider. Now listen to Jeremiah’s prayer on the subject: ‘Ah Lord God! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched our arm, and there is nothing too hard (difficult) for thee: Thou showest LOVING-kindness unto thousands, and recompensest (repay) the iniquity of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them: the Great, the Mighty God, the Lord of hosts, is his name. Great in counsel, and mighty in work (deed): for thine eyes are open upon all the ways of the sons of men: to give every one according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.’ (Jer.32:17-19) Oh Friends, I implore us to wake up and smell the roses, truly see on which side our bread is buttered; in praise and reverence to Almighty God, through Jesus, the Prince of Light and not through Beelzebub, the purveyor of darkness. It’s only through constant fellowship with Christ will our paltry human efforts bear any wise and righteous fruit. Let’s remember that, and write it deep and indelibly in our hearts, minds and souls. Much LOVE!…a word to the wise is sufficient…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 1 November 2011 Ecclesiastes 1:8
01 Nov 2011 Leave a comment
Oh Friends, it’s the first day of November! That means the Halloween nonsense is over for another year. Thank the Lord! I figure it’s a waste of time; just another money making event for the business people, with pumpkins and foolish costumes. It’s quite okay to tell the children about ghosts, goblins, witches and all the other negative spiritual things that make up Halloween. But telling them about God is like pulling teeth. That brings us to the fact that dentists are jumping for joy today, because they know they’ll soon be seeing quite a few people, adults and children, with problems from having eaten too much candy. What kind of society are we eh, where on one hand we can declare the inherent evil in candy, then have a celebration that’s mostly filled with candy giving? And these days it’s mostly candy that’s given out at Halloween since some sick, evil people began putting things like razor blades and needles in fruits. How low has mankind sunk eh, putting such stuff in things meant for children? Ah Lord eh! And now, with the many predators on the loose, it’s even more dangerous to send children out in the dark night to knock on strange doors and accept stuff from strangers. But everyday we still keep pounding it in their heads not to talk to strangers, accept gifts or rides from them. I guess that’s okay on Halloween night nuh. Steups! What contradictions we impose on our children. No wonder so many of them are terribly confused! Anyway, that’s my rant on Halloween. It’s not going to make any difference in our economic driven, ungodly society, but my soul is at peace, now that I’ve gotten it off my chest. (smile) Turning to our Bit, which is very appropriate for post Halloween consideration. Oh my people, our God really does move in mysterious ways yes, for I never really considered the close connection between the two until right now! And our Bit declares: ‘All things are full of labour (wearisome); man cannot utter (express) it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.’ And that’s the awful truth Friends! Our lustful eyes and inquisitive ears are never satisfied. We always seem to want more, especially in this modern society where acquiring more of everything has become the norm. Although we’re rolling in wealth and power, the greedy human animal is not satisfied, and keeps seeking more of both. Cousin Sol says it so succinctly in Proverbs. ‘Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.’ (Prov.27:20) And later on in Ecclesiastes, he makes this astute observation re greed and miserliness. ‘There is one alone, and there is not a second (companion); yea, he hath neither child nor brother: yet is there no end of all his labour; neither is his eye satisfied with riches; neither saith he, For whom do I labour, and bereave (deprive) my soul of good? This is also vanity (futility), yea, it is a sore travail (grievous toil, evil task).’ (Eccl.4:8) Oh Friends, what will it take for us to stop seeking so desperately after the valueless things of the world, and begin seeking after the things of God eh? Oh I know that our world is going to hell in a hand basket, but that doesn’t mean we have to focus on and worry about it, because it’s only when we truly begin to focus on God and do the things He desires, that our world will ever return to a decent state. While we worship and lust after worldly things we’ll continue to go down the road to destruction, faster and faster. And I’ll let John, the beloved disciple take us home today, because he says it much better than I can, and you might listen to his authoritative words more than mine. (smile) ‘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, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.’ (1 John 2:15-17) Oh my fellow believers, in those three verses, written almost two thousand years ago, lie the basic problem that’s causing our world’s demise. But miraculously, in those verses are also found the solution to the problem. Please, let’s diligently ponder them, then let each of us, in our own way, try to do something positive to reverse the snowballing of negativity, evil and destruction that currently has a death grip on our beautiful planet. It’s our bounden, godly duty, to try and improve it. Much LOVE!…world movers and shakers…we all can’t be…but individually…we can all make a positive difference in furthering God’s kingdom…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 31 October 2011 Matthew 18:22
31 Oct 2011 Leave a comment
Matthew 18:22. Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
‘Oh Friends, it’s Monday,’ I say in a low voice, as I enter the barracks. But nobody moves, not even the resident mouse. So I shout: ‘Oh Friends, it’s Monday!’ And surprise, surprise, pillows, blankets, books, and some unmentionables come hurtling through the darkened room at me. But I steadfastly stand my ground behind my massive shield of faith, and they either hurtle by aimlessly or bounce off my shield and fall harmlessly to the ground. Then when the air clears, I lower my shield and jubilantly declare: ‘That’s what you can do when you’re fully dressed in your spiritual armour.’ Hn, hn, hn! Anyway, enough lollygagging people, it’s Monday, time to be up and at ‘em. A war to the death is being fought. The workweek battle lines have already been drawn. The enemy’s soldiers are already on the prowl for stragglers and malcontents. Meanwhile, our leader Jesus is at the front line devising strategy, waiting for us to show up. So let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, then get on our chargers and ride. Altogether now in loud harmony: ‘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 while we’re riding to battle, let’s ponder our Bit: ‘I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.’ Remember Friends, forgiveness is a must in God’s kingdom. If we want to be forgiven, we must first learn to forgive. And remember too, that it’s mainly for out benefit, not for anyone else’s. We know it’s not always easy to forgive, especially with some of the serious hurts and pains we experience in this life. But as the Good Book advises, if we consistently take all our troubles, big, small and in between, to Jesus in prayer, He will most certainly help us to bear our earthly burdens. Now let’s hear what another man of great faith, Bruh Paul, had to say about forgiveness. Regarding the new life in Christ, he wrote to the Ephesians: ‘Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice. And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.’ (Eph.4:31-32) And to the Colossians, re the Christian virtues, he advised: ‘Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies (tender mercies), kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; Forbearing (bearing with) one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.’ (Col.3:12-13) Yuh see Friends, forgiveness is the major thread in the knitting. If you pull that thread out, the rest of our faith unravels right before our very eyes. And just to try and hammer home the point, let’s end with Mark’s version of Christ’s warning words on the subject of forgiveness. ‘And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught (anything) against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.’ (Mark 11:25-26) Oh my people, there’s no more to say, for that says it all. So I’ll leave us to ponder that dire warning, or wise advice, however you choose to categorize it, and hopefully we’ll all take it to heart, and eventually learn to forgive. Much LOVE!…to have a forgiving spirit…is the surest way to receive forgiveness…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 30 October 2011 Matthew 18:22
30 Oct 2011 Leave a comment
Matthew 18:22. Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
Oh Friends, it’s certainly exciting that we didn’t see our names and/or pictures in the obits this morning. Praise the Lord! That means we have another day on earth to enjoy God’s blessings and to do His will. What more can we ask for down here eh? Not much. And for those of us who celebrate the Sabbath on Sundays, it’s extremely important that we get out and fellowship and worship Almighty God with other believers this morning. Hopefully, those who celebrate it on Fridays and Saturdays have already done so. My brethren, it’s imperative that we come together at least once a week with fellow believers to socialize and cast our hands, heads and hearts heavenwards in reverence to our God, Creator, Provider and Protector. This enables our faith to be nourished and regenerated, and assures that all the doubts, anxieties and fears generated in our sinful hearts by the enemy is expunged by the Holy Spirit, and a clean heart and right spirit renewed in us. But my people, though all that’s said above is very important, perhaps the most important attitude, or aspect of our faith is forgiveness. And I believe that right now, in this bitter, angry, confused, war-torn, resentment filled world, that’s our NUMBER ONE problem. That’s because a lot of our problems are caused by unforgiveness. Many are the violations of life that are perpetrated because one person, one family, one group, one nation did not forgive another for whatever wrongdoing they believed was done to them. It’s a proven fact my brethren that wherever unforgiveness lives, resentment and bitterness are easily bred. However, where there is forgiveness, lives run much smoother. And if you don’t believe me, try it now, in your own circle of friends, family and neighbours. Hence the extreme urgency of Jesus’ words in Today’s Bit. ‘I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.’ Selah! Jesus was so big on teaching forgiveness that it prompted Peter to ask Him: ‘Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times?’ (Matt.14:21) Just imagine the surprise and consternation of the disciples when Jesus said not a mere seven times, but seventy times seven occasions. To Jesus, seven times was way insufficient, though to some of us supposed believers seven times is way too much. But as far as Jesus was concerned, His disciples were to be characterized by unlimited forgiveness. Now that’s obviously difficult to accomplish in this earthly life, but there’s one great reason that we should forgive. It’s a proviso Jesus laid down after He taught the disciples ‘The Lord’s Prayer.’ At the end, He told them, in no uncertain terms: ‘For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your father forgive your trespasses.’ (Matt.6:14-15) Simple and straightforward Friends! You forgive others, the Lord will forgive you. You don’t forgive, neither will the Lord forgive you. That’s not rocket science Friends, yet why is there still so much unforgiveness in our crazy world eh, especially amongst friends, families and close neighbours? Many of us think that bearing grudges against those that hurt us is healthy, and think that by so doing we’re getting revenge. But Friends, the truth is that we’re only causing ourselves irreparable harm by keeping the anger and resentment fuelled within us, which only brings us unnecessary stress and eventually physical and emotional sickness. What makes it even worse, is that oftimes the person(s) we’re not forgiving doesn’t even know, or for that matter care that we’re holding an unforgiving spirit against them. We need to remember that whenever God tells us to do something, it’s usually for our benefit, not for anyone else. And that’s the very essence of forgiveness; it makes us feel better; free from anger and hatred, and also allows the Lord to forgive us. There’s much more to say on this controversial subject, but time and space dictate that we end here today. And we’ll do so with some more warning words from Jesus. After Peter’s question on how often to forgive, Jesus told them the parable of the ungrateful servant, (Matt.18:23-34) where his master forgave him a large sum, but he went and threw his fellow servant in jail over a comparable pittance. Obviously when the master heard of his unforgiveness, he threw him in jail too. Jesus ended by saying: ‘So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.’ (Matt.18:35) Please Friends, I’m asking us today to release all the accumulated hatred, bitterness and unforgiveness we have stored up in us, so that the Father will also forgive us, our world will improve, and we’ll be true disciples of Jesus. Much LOVE!…unforgiveness…a sure way to remain unforgiven…
