Psalm 23:4. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Oh Friends, I meant to share this yesterday, but somehow got sidetracked. Anyway, the Monday Toronto Star newspaper headline, in big, bold letters, read: ‘Swept up in China’s growing crackdown.’ Then in smaller type: ‘You’ll have to come with us,’ police tell Star reporter as Christians arrested.’ Ah Lord eh! The Star reporter apparently went to check out the Beijing Shouwang Church as they planned to hold Sunday Services outdoors, something you hardly ever see in China. But the believers claimed that they had been evicted from their rented premises, then prevented from occupying the 4 million dollar place they’d bought some fifteen months ago. So the thousand believers who belong to the church were forced to go out doors, become something of an underground church, or Shouwang, because they didn’t have the blessing of the Communist gov’t. Like everything else in China, to survive, you must have the gov’t’s blessing. And they’re such a scared bunch of egotists that they crack down on anything, or any behaviour that has even the slightest chance of eroding some of their control. It ‘s been said that unnatural control breeds unnatural fear, and that’s exactly what’s happening there. It appears they do allow some Christian worship, but only churches they approve and oversee, in other words, control. But the good news though Friends is that according to the report, tens of millions of Chinese Christians still worship without the gov’t’s permission. ‘Glory Hallelujah! All praise be to God!’ They can’t stop us my people! Once the Word is buried in you, there’s no turning back, no fear. And this unnecessary persecution is a perfect example of where our Bit comes in very handy. ‘Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.’ It works Friends, it certainly does! Else why would believers place their lives in jeopardy knowing the high probability of gov’t persecution eh? The Lord promised those Chinese believers that He would be with them through thick and thin, and they believed. Wow! Oh Friends, the stupidity of wicked rulers still amazes me, though it has been going on for eons. Look at what’s happening in the Middle East countries, which are mostly Muslims, indicating that religion is not the overwhelming factor in foolish leadership. The people there are so tired of the despotic, autocratic, oppressive rule of a handful of fat-cats, that they’ve decided to rise up and take matters into their own hands, knowing full well that the might of their oppressive rulers could be unleashed on them. But it’s the same story as always; when you’re cornered, or trapped, and there seems to be no way out, at some stage you either simply lie down and die or retaliate. In this case the people in the Mid-East are trapped in an unending cycle of poverty and oppression, and instead of giving up, they have decided to retaliate with whatever means available, telling themselves that even if they do end up dying, at least it would be an honourable death, fighting for something worthwhile. That unprecedented, unanimous and spontaneous uprising of so many different people makes the Chinese rulers sore afraid, especially with their record of stifling oppression. In fact all despotic rulers today have been put on notice, and the smart ones will do something sensible about it. But unfortunately we’re seeing the old adage ‘power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely,’ raise it’s ugly head. And instead of being sensible, many of the confronted despots are using might to fight right. Don’t they ever learn? And in the Chinese situation it’s impossible to have a Communist system work smoothly interspersed with capitalism, for one calls for tight and rigid control, while the other calls for freedom of money, ideas and expression. And though they have already become economically powerful, this is just the tip of the iceberg in the problems they will face. You can’t expect to live a capitalist lifestyle, with all the modern conveniences, plus mass media and communications, yet keep people in mental bondage and ignorance, especially with such a large and far-flung population. Then to make matters worse, we in the West are propping up the Chinese juggernaut by rushing to buy their cheap, shoddily made, uncontrolled, dangerous goods. That’s where the gov’t should be focusing their controlling efforts. There was an article that same day in the paper where the writer laments that fact. We’ve all become so enamoured with cheap, conveniently forgetting the words of the most renowned Chinese philosopher, Confucius, who so rightly proclaimed: ‘Good thing no cheap, and cheap thing no good!’ (smile) But it’s the gospel truth my people. And nowadays even the expensive things aren’t so great. But the money-men are moving their production to places of cheap labour and production, because there they can make enormous profits, and not worry about social justice. Sadly though we’re all so short-sighted and fall for the pitches of the greedy money-men. In a couple of generations, when their society is modernized and productive and the price of doing business there escalates, as it did here, China will face the same problems we are now facing; job shortages, a failing economy and all the negatives they bring. Oh Friends, until the profit motive is not the overwhelming guide in our lives, then societies will rise and fall on the whim of those controlling the society’s wealth. Enough for today though. But I’ll close with two requests. The first is let’s stop always looking for the cheap stuff, though granted that’s all many of us can afford, because we’re only building up other societies while ours continue to decline. Secondly, and more important, let’s pray diligently and sincerely for all those Christians, in China and elsewhere, who are being persecuted solely on the grounds of their faith. It must be a truly great faith though, for unbelievers to be so afraid of it. So stand strong my people, and let’s rebuild our society on the freedom and Christian values on which it was founded. Much LOVE!…without justice, truth, LOVE and understanding…a society will not last for long…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 13 April 2011 Psalm 23:4
13 Apr 2011 Leave a comment
Today’s Scrip-Bit 12 April 2011 Psalm 23:4
12 Apr 2011 Leave a comment
Oh Friends, in light of the many serious upheavals happening all over our once beautiful and stable world, including the two earthquakes of 6.3 and 7 magnitude that hit the already devastated area of Japan a couple days ago, and the increasing seriousness of their nuclear problem, I could not resist opening with these words of wisdom from Chapter 23 of Gloria Copeland’s book, ‘Hidden treasures, abundant living in the proverbs.’ It says: ‘We live in a very critical hour. Time is much too short to waste playing around with sin. It’s time to turn away from evil and walk in the wisdom and ways of God.’ And isn’t that the living truth my people! We’re in this sad state because our world has been overcome by sin and evil, and unless we repudiate sin and cast out evil, our worldly troubles will only get worse, for gone are the days when distance and lack of communication prevented evil and sin from easily spreading. Our world is now a global village where ease of communication informs us of stuff as soon as it happens, which also leads to much easier cultural exchanges and the inevitable negative clashes. That’s why our Bit holds out such excellent hope for those wanting to put down sin and evil. ‘Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; they rod and thy staff they comfort me.’ And yuh know what Friends? If we continuously live in sin, then we are figuratively walking in the shadow of death all the time. Hear this excerpt from Job when he complains of God’s indifference to wickedness. ‘They are of those that rebel against the light; they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the paths thereof. The murderer rising with the light killeth the poor and needy, and in the night is as a thief. The eye also of the adulterer waiteth for twilight, saying, No eye shall see me: and disguiseth (puts a covering on) his face. In the dark they dig through (break into) houses, which they had marked for themselves in the daytime: they know not the light. For morning is to them even as the shadow of death: if one know (recognizes) them, they are in the terrors of the shadow of death.’ (Job 24:13-17) Yes my people, evildoers constantly walk in darkness because their deeds cannot withstand the scrutiny of light. That means we have to consciously and constantly check our pathways, so we don’t get caught unawares in the valley of the shadow of death. But even if we do get caught there on occasion, since we are still sinners at heart, once we have the Holy Spirit of Jesus living within us, we need not fear any evil that might crop up. Why? Because as Bruh David so courageously and emphatically declared in Psalm 3, a prayer of confidence in God, when he fled from his son Absalom: ‘I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill (mountain). Selah. I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.’ (Ps.3:4-6) Yes Friends, that’s the direction we need to go, and the attitude and faith we need to perfect for when those real times of trouble come upon us. We all know that it’s not easy, but remember with God’s help, everything is possible. And we’ll end today’s Bit with more encouragement from some of Bruh David’s other famous words of faith. ‘The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?’ (Ps.27:1) And all God’s people chorused a long, loud, enthusiastic, ‘AMEN!’ Oh my people, I sincerely implore us to keep those words in our hearts and minds today as we go out to face the evil world that surrounds us, because they are the best source of protection from Beelzebub and his boys. More on this tomorrow, if God blesses us to see the light of another day. Till then, walk safely with God, put Him first in all you do, and He will respond favourably, as He so faithfully promised. Much LOVE!…if Almighty God says we can…then certainly…with His help…we can…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 April 2011 Psalm 23:4
11 Apr 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 23:4. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Oh Friends, it’s another beautiful day in God’s universe! It’s also fitting that we give some thanks for being so blessed to see it. And a loud shout rises up to heaven: ‘Thank you Lord!’ Unfortunately though my people, today is also Monday, that dreaded first day of the workweek. However that dread only affects the unbelievers, for we followers of Christ have an in with the Most High God, through prayer, which helps us to come up above the normal human fear and anxiety. And on a Monday we offer the Monday Morning Battle Hymn, asking for strength and guidance. So in one, loud, cohesive, ‘anthemic’ voice, (smile) let’s sing it out like we mean it. ‘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 again Friends, I have to marvel at how our Monday Morning Battle Hymn lines up so nicely with our Bit: ‘Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.’ Extremely powerful and moving words of faith, encouragement and truth my brethren! For even though we find ourselves in the deepest, darkest valley, of disappointment, misfortune, sickness, or whatever negative circumstances the world throws at us, even if it verges on physical death, we ought to stand strong in our faith, for our God has solemnly promised never to leave or forsake us. And the only way to survive this cruel and wicked world is to stand on the promises of our God. And that’s exactly what Bruh David did, that’s why he could write so surely and forcefully about it. But Job, the father of patience, cursed the day he was born when his horrible trials befell him. ‘Let the day perish wherein I was born, and the night in which it was said, There is a man child (male) conceived. Let that day be darkness; Let not God regard it from above (may God above not seek it), neither let the light shine upon it. Let darkness and the shadow of death stain it (claim it); let a cloud dwell (settle) upon it; let the blackness of the day terrify it.’ (Job 3:3-5) Yes mih people, Job’s troubles were very sorrowful, especially when he seemed to be living a fairly righteous life. But however harsh the reality Friends, unlike Job, we need not go to such lengths and curse the day of our birth, we need to bear up better under the tribulation. And we can do it if we have truly sown the seeds of faith and trust in our wonderful and amazing God deep down in our hearts and souls. It’s not easy, but we can do it if we believe that everything that comes against us has passed through God’s minute examination, and would not have happened if He didn’t see a useful purpose for it. And though Job was absolutely floored by his sudden, unprovoked tribulation, I like how he strongly defends his integrity later on: ‘Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways (defend my ways) before him. He also shall be my salvation: for a hypocrite shall not come before him. Hear diligently my speech, and my declaration with your ears.’ (Job 13:15-17) Bravo Job! Yes Friends, that’s the way we ought to be; faithful and trusting, regardless of what comes against, knowing deep down that our God works out everything to the good of those who LOVE Him and who are called to do His will. (Rom.8:28) So stand strong my brethren despite the serious upheavals in our world, for the Lord God Jehovah is still in control, and in His time, will make everything right for those who serve and worship Him with a right heart. More on this tomorrow, our God willing. Till then, be sure to LOVE Your God, LIVE Your Faith, and SPREAD His Word! Much LOVE!…only the strong survive…only the strong survive…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 April 2011 Psalm 23:3
10 Apr 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 23:3. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
‘Thank you Lord! We praise, honour and glorify your Holy Name, for so mercifully blessing us with another beautiful day on Planet Earth!’ And the grateful cry of God’s people echoed all around the world as they gave Him heartfelt thanks for the new mercy and grace available each new day from His unending wellspring. Wow! Isn’t that wonderful? It sure is. Yes Friends, the first thing we ought to do every day when we open our eyes, or simply become conscious and realize that we’re still alive, is to offer up a prayer of thanksgiving, because it means that the Lord isn’t finished with us down here, He still has earthly work for us to perform. And if He still has stuff for us to do, then we know, with full assurance, that He will safely lead and guide us if we surrender our all to Him, and try to keep a right heart. As Bruh David says in our Bit: ‘He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.’ That’s ever so true my people! When we sleep, read His Word and meditate on it, the Lord restores our souls. He washes away the filth of the world that’s clogged them up during our interaction with the evil that constantly surrounds us. He refreshes our minds, will and emotions, bringing them back into sync and harmony with His thinking and His priorities. Now this needs to be an everyday occurrence since we interact with the wicked world everyday. But as usual, we first have to come to Him and offer up our petitions, then remain faithful and patient, knowing that in His time, He will do what is necessary for us to succeed; that He will lead us along paths of righteousness so that His Name can be glorified. Now judging from the number of times Bruh David appealed to God for righteous guidance, nobody understood this principle better than him. Here are a few examples of his constant pleading for righteousness and right leading. In Psalm 5, a prayer for protection, he pleads: ‘Lead me O Lord, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face.’ (Ps.5:8) Then in Psalm 25, a prayer for guidance and protection, he declares with heartrending honesty and desire: ‘Show me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day…All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. For thy name’s sake, O Lord, pardon mine iniquity, for it is great. What man is he that feareth the Lord? Him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose. His soul shall dwell at ease (in goodness) and his seed (descendants) shall inherit the earth.’ (Ps.25:4-5,10-13) And again in Psalm 27, the Lord is my light and my salvation, he genuinely pleads: ‘Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain (smooth) path, because of mine enemies.’ (Ps.27:11) The last example comes from Psalm 143, superscripted, teach me to do thy will: ‘Cause me to hear thy LOVING-kindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee…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.143:8,10-12) Oh Friends, from those excerpts it’s plain to see that Bruh David constantly asked for the refreshing of his soul, and guidance for his daily walk. And so should we, my people. But the big difference between Bruh David and too many of us is stated right there in the last line above: ‘for I am thy servant.’ Yes mih breddren, Bruh David sincerely tried to walk in obedience to God and please Him, that’s why he could keep asking for guidance and protection, which the Lord gladly gave him. Now a lot of us go to God for all sorts of stuff, which is okay, but do we truly attempt to walk in paths of righteousness, are we meek and humble, do we have the servant attitude that Jesus displayed? Those are the million dollar questions? Fortunately, or not, only the individual believer and God know the true answers. However Friends, it’s imperative that at some stage of our lives, the sooner the better, if we intend to mature as Christians, we should be able to answer those questions with a joyful, YES! It doesn’t come easily, but if we sincerely desire to walk with God, then we’ll seek Him in all aspects of our lives, and we’ll find Him, as he has promised: ‘And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.’ (Jer.29:13) Nuff said mih people! Much LOVE!…seeking and finding God…all has to do with the state of our hearts…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 April 2011 Psalm 23:2
09 Apr 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 23:2. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
Oh Friends, the ole fella is in a bleh mood. Nothing’s really wrong, but I guess it’s one of those times when we feel down spirited for no good reason. And having said that, here’s an insight which some of us might not realize. It’s a quote from the ‘Hidden Treasures, abundant living in the riches of proverbs,’ by Gloria Copeland. No I haven’t finished reading it as yet. (smile) It says: ‘The Counselor Himself, the Holy Spirit, lives in your spirit to lead and guide you – but you have to take the time to draw from the deep waters of His counsel.’ Now that’s an overwhelming fact in a believer’s life my people! Once we’ve accepted Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell in us, but if we don’t pay careful attention, talk to and listen to Him, His presence will be all for nought. It just doesn’t happen by osmosis, but by specific action on the believer’s part. The same thing applies to our Bit. ‘He maketh me to lie down in green pastures (pastures of tender green grass): he leadeth me beside the still waters (waters of rest).’ If we don’t get actively involved in the whole Christianity action Friends, then we’re just wasting Christ’s time and ours. How do you think the shepherd finds green pastures for his sheep, or calm waters for them to rest by? He has to actively search out these places, and then the sheep must be willing, trust Him enough to follow His lead and guidance. Now yesterday we saw how Jesus used the shepherd and sheep analogy to help us understand what He’s all about. But my brethren, the whole thing is a partnership between Jesus and those who choose to believe in Him. Jesus has already done His part, and it’s up to us now to do ours; listen carefully to Him, through His Spirit that dwells in us, then follow Him by taking the necessary action that helps us stay true to our beliefs. And though that’s a pretty tall order living in this violent, greedy, evil world, Jesus has made it much easier by calling us to Him with His great invitation: ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of (from) me; for I am meek and lowly (gentle and humble) in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ (Matt.11:28-30) Oh Friends, how many of us have taken that invitation to heart and truly accepted it eh? Not nearly sufficient of us, I’m afraid, else our world would not be in the mess it’s in! But that’s also one of the ways that the Good Shepherd is leading us to a place of nourishment and rest beside calm streams of water. Once we hold on to His proffered hand, wherein lies strength, safety, security and provision, the stress and strain of this wicked world will no longer affect us to the degree that it does when we try to handle it on our own. And that’s where Jesus wins them all my people; in the sure strength and majesty of His awesome power backed by His unrivalled LOVING-kindness! Oh Friends, truly walking with Jesus ought to bring at least one thing to our humble spirits; a sense of peace, an awareness that things are under control, and we don’t have to worry though we’re surrounded by hell fire and brimstone, because our Good Shepherd has us resting beside calm and peaceful waters, munching rich and nourishing grass. And if we don’t have that peace of mind as a believer, then something’s wrong, something’s getting in the way of our communication with the Most High God, and we need to fix it ASAP. And here’s one more thing which many believers overlook; the onus is on us to accept Jesus, and allow Him to live through us. Jesus doesn’t owe us anything. He’s already sacrificed His life, thereby paving the way for us to come to salvation and eternal life. It’s like the law of offer and acceptance: The spilling of His precious blood offers us a way to escape death and eternal separation from Almighty God. Now it’s up to us to accept or decline that offer. And declining Jesus’ superb offer is the biggest mistake we can ever make in this earthly life, for the ramifications will sadly haunt us till eternity. There’s no other offer than can even come close, for acceptance also means living under His wonderful yoke into the next life. Hear John, the beloved disciple, tell it as the Holy Spirit revealed it to him. He saw a numberless multitude, dressed in white robes, sitting before the throne of God, offering thanks and praise, honour and glory: ‘These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in the temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on (strike) them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed (shepherd) them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears (every tear) from their eyes.’ (Rev.7:14-17) That’s the beautiful reality true believers have to look forward to Friends! You’d be crazy not to grab it NOW, while there is yet time, and hold on to it for dear life! I know I’m going to. Hope you are too. Much LOVE!…as for me and mine…we’ll follow the Good Shepherd…to the ends of the earth…and even beyond… P.S. I’m no longer in a bleh mood, but full of energy and vitality! (smile)
Today’s Scrip-Bit 8 April 2011 Psalm 23:2
08 Apr 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 23:2. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
Yes Friends, it’s Friday, and I can hear the racket you all are kicking up in anticipation of the weekend, joyously declaring: ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday!’ But joyously thanking God is something we should do everyday that we’re alive, not just on Fridays, at the end of the workweek. So to try and put the focus on God, where it truly belongs, rather than on the day itself, let’s chant our Friday Chant with the same enthusiasm that we’ve been proclaiming that it’s Friday. 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.’ And who says our God isn’t in total control eh Friends? I’m mouthing off because it’s only after deciding to use the second verse of Bruh David’s beautiful paean (song of praise or triumph) to Almighty God as our Bit, that I realized how perfectly the Friday Chant fitted it. ‘He maketh me to lie down in green pastures (pastures of tender green grass): he leadeth me beside still waters (waters of rest).’ And to give us rest, relaxation and rejuvenation is exactly what we’re asking the Lord for in the Friday Chant. Oh my people, I don’t know about you, but I find great joy, and sometimes amusement, in the way the Lord operates in my life. I’m not always thrilled with the big things, but I can surely see His awesome, kind and goodly hand in so many little areas and things of my life, like tonight, the good fit of the Friday Chant and the Bit. And I’m encouraging all believers to check out the small, day to day things and happenings in their lives with an eye specially tuned to God’s movements, and you too will be pleasantly surprised and amazed at the way He operates in those, small, on the surface, unimportant areas. As Rudyard Kipling supposedly said: ‘Delight in the little things.’ And that’s something we must learn to do my people, because it’s the small things that drive our lives, that make up most of our everyday lives, and if we only wait to enjoy the big moments, then we’ll miss out on a lot of the Lord’s goodies in the simple aspects of our existence. And having digressed there for a spell, let’s return to our Bit. Now over the last two days we’ve looked at the first verse of the psalm, seen the duties of a shepherd and how he looks after his flock of sheep, their wants and their safety, and now can truly identify with the Lord God Jehovah as our Shepherd, Caretaker and Provider. And how does He do that for us? First of all: ‘He maketh us to lie down in green pastures.’ Yes my brethren, the Good Lord, through His most trustworthy Son, Jesus, takes us to where the grass is truly green and nourishing. We all know how animals that eat grass delight in the rich green stuff because it’s much healthier and tastier than the dry, brown withered type. In the same way Jesus, our Good Shepherd brings us to a place of fruitfulness and plenty. Hear Ezekiel tell of the Lord’s good intentions to those who faithfully serve and worship Him in all truth. ‘I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat (rich) pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord God.’ (Ezek. 34:14-15) Oh Friends, we can’t get a better promise than that anywhere, especially since we know that our God keeps all His promises! And He kept this one, even to a greater extent than we could ever ask or imagine, sending His Son Jesus to be our Sacrificial Lamb, our Saviour, Redeemer, Advocate and Good Shepherd! ‘And all God’s people loudly declared: ‘Thank you Jesus! Worthy is Your Name to be praised above all others!’ And isn’t that the gospel truth my people! Now listen to Jesus tell it as it is. ‘Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture….I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep…I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so I know the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.’ (John 10:7-9, 11, 14-15) Oh my people, those are undisputable facts! They are also actions that no other supposed deity have ever taken, or can take, on behalf of their followers because they don’t have that awesome power. So why aren’t we following this Good Shepherd, Jesus, with more zeal, enthusiasm and excitement eh, after all He’s done and is still doing for us? Please, I beg of us, let’s turn up the flame of LOVE for Jesus nuh! He’s our Lord, Saviour, Leader, Good Shepherd and heavenly Intercessor. What more does He have to do before we act like we truly appreciate His selfless and sacrificial efforts on our behalf eh? More on this topic tomorrow, if there’s breath in our bodies. Till then, please ramp up your affection and enthusiasm for Jesus nuh mih people. He’s such a beautiful, kind, caring and considerate person. Much LOVE!…believe me…Jesus is the ONLY ONE…who can help us…in these trying and troublesome times…try Him…and see the big improvement in your lives…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 7 April 2011 Psalm 23:1
07 Apr 2011 Leave a comment
Morning Neighbuh! It’s a brand new day and I don’t care what the weather is like because I know that my God is in full control and will not allow me to suffer unnecessarily. Wow! How’s that for an opening statement eh Friends? And all my Friends responded with a loud and hearty: ‘Most excellent Brother! Give the utmost thanks and praise to Almighty God, our Creator, Father and Caregiver!’ Oh Friends, the ole fella seems to be in a rather playful and jubilant mood this morning, for which we can only thank the Lord, because there’s much to be jubilant for: I’m alive and delving into His Word. And if you’re reading this, then you’re also alive and seeking Him, which makes us all right in His eyes. Now here’s a quote from my ‘P.S. I LOVE YOU’ poster that hits the nail on the head. ‘You’ll learn more about a road by travelling it than by consulting all the maps in the world.’ And that’s the gospel truth my people! Others can certainly give you good information about it, but there’s nothing like travelling it yourself. And yuh know what Friends? That particular statement also pertains to following the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Anybody can tell you about our great, powerful, merciful, generous, kind and ever-LOVING God, but until you actually check Him out and get to know Him for yourself, you’ll never realize just how wonderful He is. And in the background I heard a loud and hearty ‘Amen!’ from all those who know Him. That’s why Bruh David could say with such authority: ‘The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.’ He personally experienced the goodness and grace of our heavenly Father. And so have all of us who believe and put our faith and trust in Him. Whenever you get into a right relationship with the Most High God Jehovah, your whole life changes for the better; you become a new person. And although you still have problems, you don’t whimper, cry and worry as much, because you have the Good Shepherd, Jesus looking after you. That makes you stronger and better able to bear your burdens. Yesterday we saw the duties of a shepherd; basically to care, comfort and control the brainless animals. Now many of us human animals are brain dead, so we too need a higher power to take care of us. Today we’ll look at the second half of that unique, exciting, encouraging and unparalleled statement: ‘I shall not want.’ Now just like the shepherd seeks the sheep’s safety and care by keeping them out of harms way, our God keeps us safe and provides all our necessities. It’s unfortunate that Bruh David used the word ‘want’ in the Bit instead of ‘need’ because in these times of greed, envy and jealousy, we’ve become such a ‘wanty-wanty’ society. We want everything we see, or everything somebody else has, but that’s never been the Lord’s intention. What He intends is that we shall never need or lack for anything that’s important to our well-being when we sincerely look to Him. And here I’m also talking from experience. You might not get rich, as well as you might, but once you’ve learned to wait on His timing and don’t get greedy and ‘gravalicious’ then you’ll be fine, all your needs will be met. As Bruh David said with full confidence: ‘I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed (descendants) begging bread. He is ever merciful (merciful all the day), and lendeth; and his seed is blessed.’ (Ps.37:25-26) Bruh Paul also substantiated that by telling the Corinthians: ‘And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.’ (2 Cor.9:8) Oh my people, there are so many examples of the Lord looking after the righteous that there should be no room for doubt in your minds. There’s Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the three Bruhs; Joseph, David and Pablo, then Daniel, Job and Joshua, and a host of others, including Jesus Himself. Their lives weren’t always easy, but in the long run, they all felt the LOVING and caring hand of the Father. So my question today Friends, is what’s stopping you from embracing the Lord God as your caretaker eh? Is it fear, disbelief, anxiety, lack of knowledge, bad experiences with other Christians? Whatever it is, there’s only one way to find out for yourself, and that’s to take the fateful plunge. Believe me, you won’t regret it! You’ll see such a miraculous change in your life once you truly get settled with Jesus, that you’ll ask yourself why you waited so long to embrace Him as your ONE and ONLY. And as we said before, you can only know what a road’s really like by travelling it yourself. So please my Friends, please accept Jesus’ offer to travel His straight and narrow road TODAY! It will be the wisest and best decision you’ve ever made. And we’ll end with some more stirring and encouraging words from Bruh Paul to the Philippians: ‘But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen’ (Phil.4:19-20) Much LOVE my brethren!…Try Jesus…He’s always around…Try Jesus…He’ll never let you down…Try Jesus…He’s such a wonderful Friend…Try Jesus…Your heart He can mend…Try Jesus…I have no regrets…cause Jesus never failed me yet…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 6 April 2011 Psalm 23:1
06 Apr 2011 Leave a comment
Oh Friends, I don’t know what happened in your area today, well yesterday, but the wind howled all day in mine. A neighbour was nice enough to put my garbage bin safely by my garage door, but I found my blue box (recycling) way up the lane. So regardless of how man forecasts it, who knows what will happen today or tomorrow, whether it will be rain, snow or wind, or even a combination of all three? However my people, it’s of the utmost importance that we believe the sentiments expressed in our Bit. Come what may: ‘The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.’ And all God’s people declared a hearty and grateful; ‘Thanks be to God!’ Ah Friends, while asking for guidance in finding a Bit, I opened the Good Book to Psalms 21, 22 and three verses of Psalm 23. Obviously I perused the first two to see if that’s where I was being guided, but inevitably my eyes focused on some of the most famous, encouraging and very important words in the world, and I felt the Spirit’s tug at my heart strings. So matter fix! (smile) Anyway, why are those words so important? Above all, they talk about kindness and caring, things that our world so sadly lacks today. ‘The Lord is my shepherd…’ What’s a shepherd’s job? He cares for sheep, which are pretty dumb animals. And believe me Friends, these days humans sure are acting even dumber than sheep. Never before in man’s history have we so badly needed someone more powerful and sensible to care for us, to lead and guide us. And the only living being who fits that bill is the Lord God Jehovah. Bruh David’s times were also very tremulous and worrisome, but certainly not as evil and bent on destruction as we are today. Neither did they have weapons of mass destruction – we give them such nice names- which can destroy everything that God has so LOVINGLY created. It seems that the more educated and enlightened man becomes, the more depraved and destructive his basic nature also becomes. And as we’ve been saying for the last couple days, our world is in such great turmoil that the ONLY ONE who can fix it, is the ONE who created it; Almighty God. And though the Lord has been marvellously playing the Good Shepherd to a handful of us, the majority of human sheep are so dumb that they’ve run away from the kindly shepherd and become lost and floundering in their own foolishness. Ah mih people, why would anyone in their right minds leave the Good Shepherd’s flock to go off on their own, or tag along behind the biggest fool ever, Lucifer, who can’t even help himself, much less others? It just doesn’t make any sense when the Good Shepherd provides all their needs. Hear how Isaiah puts it when talking about comfort through trust in the Lord. ‘He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.’ (Is.40:11) Oh Friends, how much better than that can it get eh? Not much! And is Lucifer willing to do anything of that ilk? Certainly not! He’s only interested in death and destruction, not life and compassion! But yet oodles of people are running away from a most kind, gracious, merciful and caring God, when common sense dictates they should instead be running to readily embrace Him and all that He so nobly stands for. Ah Lord eh! But sorry, I forgot that these days the human animal is not blessed with a whole lot, if any, of common sense. And the great thing about it all, is that the Lord recognized our limitations and failings and faithfully promised to replace our ruthless and incapable shepherds (leaders), with one of greater wisdom, integrity and compassion: ‘And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd. And I the Lord will be their God, and my servant David a prince among them; I the Lord have spoken it.’ (Ezek. 34:23-24) And he did it with Jesus! But unfortunately mankind is so steeped in his sinful ungodly ways, that he is very loath to accept the LOVING-kindness of Jesus Christ, that wonderful shepherd. All I can say Friends, is how sad. For if the majority of humans would just accept the peace and goodwill of Jesus, this world would be such a beautiful place in which to dwell. However, Beelzebub’s boys are currently running the show, and doing their level best to keep Jesus out. But little do they know that that’s impossible if we, the wise sheep that have stayed under the Good Shepherd’s umbrella, were to fight them tooth and nail, to bring them to their senses, so that they won’t be lost and separated forever from the Lord. I know it’s not an easy task mih breddren, but it’s what our Lord and Saviour Jesus requires of us. And we can do it, because He never asks us to do something without empowering us to do it. So please, let’s put on all of our battle armour and get out there and fight the good fight to bring those lost sheep back to the fold of the Good Shepherd. He is depending on us and we can’t afford to let Him down. More on this tomorrow, if the Lord desires. Till then, please LOVE Your God, LIVE Your Faith and SPREAD His Word. Much LOVE!…only in proportion to our efforts…will the lost sheep be found and saved…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 5 April 2011 Psalm 46:1
05 Apr 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 46:1. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
And the rains came and washed all the snow away. Glory Hallelujah! Yes Friends, that’s what happened yesterday morning. The snow didn’t even last till daylight. Our God’s such a good God! And that’s exactly why so many people of great faith, all down through the ages, have pinned all their hopes on Him, have surrendered all their dreams to His guidance. As Bruh David so faithfully and rightly declares in our Bit: ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help (an abundantly available help) in trouble.’ Oh people, please note the explanation of ‘a very present help’ – ‘an abundantly available help.’ Yes Friends, help is always available from our God, whether we’re in trouble or not, and in abundance too, because He’s not a mean, stingy, parsimonious Deity, but a very kind and generous benefactor to all who sincerely seek and worship Him. As Moses, in exhorting the Israelites to obedience gloriously proclaimed: ‘For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them (a god so near), as the Lord our God is in all things that we call him for? And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgements so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?’ (Deut.4:7-8) And the answer to both questions my brethren is a big, resounding ‘NONE!’ However Friends, the next verse is the kicker: ‘Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul (yourself) diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons.’ (Deut.4:9) Now that’s where we have badly fallen down my people. We haven’t sought the Lord as diligently as we should, or kept His statutes, neither have we taught them to our children. How sad! And that’s why our world is in so much turmoil, for where there is no God, or in our case, the people don’t listen to the Word of God or His spokesperson, then they perish. But fortunately, as our Bit says, we can always find solace and strength in abundance if we turn to the Lord in times of trouble, for; ‘He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.’ (Ps.46:9) So my people, the logic is simple. If we want the strife and enmity currently predominating our world to end, all we need to do is sincerely turn to the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, who authoritatively tells us: ‘Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.’ (Ps.46:10) And He will be exalted, when we believers get our act together and truly understand that we’re in a very serious spiritual war with a lot at stake. All the hopes and dreams of Jesus and His Church are dependent on our righteousness and good example to the heathen. And if we don’t get up and do it, then tell me Friends, who will eh? The Lord’s depending on us to fight the war here on earth, to get all His children to come together, to worship and adore Him, to come to salvation and eternal life, so that He will lose none of them to death and eternal separation with Lucifer. That’s how important our earthly task is. And if we’re not focused on it, then we’re not helping in the fight against Lucifer and his evil minions. We might even be hindrances, obliquely helping the enemy by our refusal to actively join the fray. But all is not lost my Friends, for our God is indeed a gracious and merciful God, as Bruh David tells it in Psalm 145. And if you’re in trouble, you just need to lay bare your heart to Him, because: ‘The Lord is nigh (near) unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them. The Lord preserveth all them that LOVE him: but all the wicked will he destroy. My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord: and let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever.’ (Ps.145:18-21) And all God’s people uttered a loud ‘Amen!’ So Friends, in these troubled and worrisome times, it is imperative that we turn to the ONLY ONE who can help us; the same ONE who created us; the Lord God Jehovah! So please, let’s genuinely turn to Him TODAY, while there is yet time, that as He has promised in His Holy Word; we may LIVE. Much LOVE!…stand up…stand up…for Jesus…the trumpet’s call obey…till every foe is vanquished…and Christ is Lord indeed…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 4 April 2011 Psalm 46:1
04 Apr 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 46:1. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Oh Friends, I don’t know if the Lord is in a humorous mood or what, but in certain parts of Toronto, there is fresh snow on the ground. It was supposed to rain, and it did begin as heavenly blessings, but somewhere along the line it turned into the unwanted, wet, white stuff. Chuh! Most likely though it will be gone by mid-morning. ‘Sing praises!’ But for those of us getting on the highways this wet and slippery Monday morning, please be careful. And to bolster our energy, all the different kinds, let’s really get into our Monday Morning Battle Hymn. ‘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!’ Wow mih people! That certainly was inspiring, and it’s also a perfect segue into our Bit: ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help (an abundantly available help) in trouble.’ That’s why we just prayed to Him, asking for help, guidance and strength. And because of His kind and caring awesome power, our spirits and lives are indeed energized, made strong and fearless. ‘Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst (the heart) of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.’ (Ps.46:2-3) Ah Friends, I don’t know how unbelievers do it nuh, but if I didn’t have the Lord’s strength and wisdom to guide me, I’d probably be constantly worrying and eating my heart out over the numerous problems that face me everyday. Now that doesn’t stop the problems from coming against us, but it definitely gives us the wherewithal to deal with them in a calm and rational manner. And that’s why I’m encouraging us to put all our faith and trust in the Most High God Jehovah, TODAY. And if you’ve already done that, then actively invoke His help in your lives, reach out to Him, constantly call on His Holy Name, while walking in obedience to His will. Please note my brethren, that the last part of that sentence is even more important than the first, for it’s very easy to cry out to God in times of trouble, but being obedient in stressful circumstances can be extremely difficult. The good part though is that He does give marks for a sincere heart and genuine effort. Oh Friends, as I keep stressing, the only thing we need more of in this crazy, evil, violent world is GOD, because He is the ONLY ONE who can successfully help us deal with the many problems our world is currently facing. For us to make it through these dark, tremulous times, we need more godly people exhibiting true godly behaviour, rather than the present predominance of evil. However Friends, time and space are up, but this is such an important topic that we’ll address it again tomorrow, our God in favour. And we’ll close with some immortal words of Bruh David, rightly encouraging us to stand strong in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. ‘In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.’ (Ps.62:7-8) Truly words of wisdom my people! Much LOVE!…our universe is so highly specialized…that only its Creator…can fix it…
