Hn,Hn! Our God just loves to put obstacles in our way to test us yes. Some days I have trouble finding one Bit, today though, I found about five right off the bat, but could not decide which one to use. Like it’s either feast or famine. So after about ten minutes of frustrating indecision, I just said, ‘Chuh!’ and put it aside. A couple hours later, I came back, opened the Good Book at 2 Peter, and without hesitation, decided that was it. And Today’s Bit is such a moving, all encompassing piece of Scripture, that I’m surprised I never paid it any attention before, even though it’s underlined in red. Anyway, it just sets out neatly, the things we should endeavour to cultivate in our lives, and the lives of those around us. We should be diligent in whatever we do, and add stuff like virtue and knowledge to our faith. As well as temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and charity. Wow! It sure is a lot to ask, but those are the traits Jesus wants His followers to possess, and actively practice. Remember J.C’s Ministry is not one of simply talking, but more importantly about DOING. And, as Bruh Pete says, if you have these attributes and put them to good use, then you will not be barren or unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord. The seeds you sow will take strong root, grow tall and bear abundant fruit. At the end of Verse 10, he unequivocally states, ‘for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.’ And that’s the living truth my people! Yes, it’s a difficult task, what with the enemy trying his best to derail our noble intentions at every turn. But take heart Friends. J.C doesn’t expect us to always get it right. He knows we’re not perfect like Him. However, He does expect us to get it right most of the time. And the only way to do that is to practice. Yuh know, the practice makes perfect thing. And if He sees that we’re sincerely trying, He’ll certainly helps us. So, if we want to be good stewards of His inheritance, let’s start doing more of these things that Bruh Peter outlined nuh. Let’s diligently seek virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and charity, and add them to our walk of faith. That way, when Jesus looks down on us, He’ll be forced to raise His right hand in a clenched salute and exclaim ‘WOW! What wonderful followers!’ Much LOVE!…there’s nothing more rewarding…than selfless actions…that make the Most High smile…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 15 January 2008 2 Peter 1:5-8
15 Jan 2008 Leave a comment
2 Peter 1:5-8 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, and to virtue, knowledge. And to knowledge, temperance; and to temperance, patience; and to patience, godliness; And to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Hn,Hn! Our God just loves to put obstacles in our way to test us yes. Some days I have trouble finding one Bit, today though, I found about five right off the bat, but could not decide which one to use. Like it’s either feast or famine. So after about ten minutes of frustrating indecision, I just said, ‘Chuh!’ and put it aside. A couple hours later, I came back, opened the Good Book at 2 Peter, and without hesitation, decided that was it. And Today’s Bit is such a moving, all encompassing piece of Scripture, that I’m surprised I never paid it any attention before, even though it’s underlined in red. Anyway, it just sets out neatly, the things we should endeavour to cultivate in our lives, and the lives of those around us. We should be diligent in whatever we do, and add stuff like virtue and knowledge to our faith. As well as temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and charity. Wow! It sure is a lot to ask, but those are the traits Jesus wants His followers to possess, and actively practice. Remember J.C’s Ministry is not one of simply talking, but more importantly about DOING. And, as Bruh Pete says, if you have these attributes and put them to good use, then you will not be barren or unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord. The seeds you sow will take strong root, grow tall and bear abundant fruit. At the end of Verse 10, he unequivocally states, ‘for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.’ And that’s the living truth my people! Yes, it’s a difficult task, what with the enemy trying his best to derail our noble intentions at every turn. But take heart Friends. J.C doesn’t expect us to always get it right. He knows we’re not perfect like Him. However, He does expect us to get it right most of the time. And the only way to do that is to practice. Yuh know, the practice makes perfect thing. And if He sees that we’re sincerely trying, He’ll certainly helps us. So, if we want to be good stewards of His inheritance, let’s start doing more of these things that Bruh Peter outlined nuh. Let’s diligently seek virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and charity, and add them to our walk of faith. That way, when Jesus looks down on us, He’ll be forced to raise His right hand in a clenched salute and exclaim ‘WOW! What wonderful followers!’ Much LOVE!…there’s nothing more rewarding…than selfless actions…that make the Most High smile…
Hn,Hn! Our God just loves to put obstacles in our way to test us yes. Some days I have trouble finding one Bit, today though, I found about five right off the bat, but could not decide which one to use. Like it’s either feast or famine. So after about ten minutes of frustrating indecision, I just said, ‘Chuh!’ and put it aside. A couple hours later, I came back, opened the Good Book at 2 Peter, and without hesitation, decided that was it. And Today’s Bit is such a moving, all encompassing piece of Scripture, that I’m surprised I never paid it any attention before, even though it’s underlined in red. Anyway, it just sets out neatly, the things we should endeavour to cultivate in our lives, and the lives of those around us. We should be diligent in whatever we do, and add stuff like virtue and knowledge to our faith. As well as temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and charity. Wow! It sure is a lot to ask, but those are the traits Jesus wants His followers to possess, and actively practice. Remember J.C’s Ministry is not one of simply talking, but more importantly about DOING. And, as Bruh Pete says, if you have these attributes and put them to good use, then you will not be barren or unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord. The seeds you sow will take strong root, grow tall and bear abundant fruit. At the end of Verse 10, he unequivocally states, ‘for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.’ And that’s the living truth my people! Yes, it’s a difficult task, what with the enemy trying his best to derail our noble intentions at every turn. But take heart Friends. J.C doesn’t expect us to always get it right. He knows we’re not perfect like Him. However, He does expect us to get it right most of the time. And the only way to do that is to practice. Yuh know, the practice makes perfect thing. And if He sees that we’re sincerely trying, He’ll certainly helps us. So, if we want to be good stewards of His inheritance, let’s start doing more of these things that Bruh Peter outlined nuh. Let’s diligently seek virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and charity, and add them to our walk of faith. That way, when Jesus looks down on us, He’ll be forced to raise His right hand in a clenched salute and exclaim ‘WOW! What wonderful followers!’ Much LOVE!…there’s nothing more rewarding…than selfless actions…that make the Most High smile…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 14 January 2008 Psalm 107:6,8-9.
14 Jan 2008 Leave a comment
Psalm 107: 6, 8-9. Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distress. Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men. For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.
Oh Friends, Bruh David’s cry has been an ongoing occurrence ever since the Lord brought the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. When we find ourselves in rough waters, because of our disobedience, we cry out to Him for help. And, being the ever-loving and merciful Patron, He helps us. Sadly though, when prosperous and rollicking times return, we conveniently forget Him, until the unwise decisions of our sinful, disobedient desires once again cause us pain. And what…? We go running to Him one more time. And, being the fount of forgiveness and LOVE…He relieves our distress again. Oh People, when is it going to end eh? When are we going to wake up and learn that although He is ever-loving and forgiving, He is not a pushover. He will not allow us to take advantage of His merciful and forgiving nature forever. And this does not apply only to the overall society, but also to our individual lives. The Most High does expect us to make some mistakes, it’s the nature of the beast, but continual, wilful disobedience is entirely different. Hn! And then we have the ‘brass faced gall’ to run to Him and ask for help. Even on the odd occasion when He’s gotten tired of our two faced whimpering and said, forget it, I don’t know you, look elsewhere for help, and allows us to suffer some, it doesn’t even last long. The Israelites suffered what…couple hundred years in Egypt, 40 in the wilderness, and about another hundred in Babylon…a miniscule amount of time in His sight. And individually, the ‘sufferation’ time is usually even shorter. That’s why Bruh David, in one of his most powerful and poignant psalms, lamenting the continual disobedience of the Lord’s supposed people, was forced to plead; ‘Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men. For He satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.’ Friends, if individually confronted, we would all acknowledge the truth of those statements. So why, in heaven’s name, can’t we do better than we’re doing now eh? If each of us just improved our obedience to His will, just one ‘mite’ – remember ‘one one cocoa full basket,’ and ‘take care of the cents, the dollars will take care of themselves,’ – it’s the same way our society would benefit and improve, because a society is only a sum of individuals, whose behaviour, attitudes and beliefs, shape its overall outlook. So Friends, like Bruh David, I’m pleading with us, starting today, right now, let’s all clean up our individual acts, before it affects our society in some horrendous, negative manner… time’s running out. Much LOVE!…apparently we’ve forgotten…that the wages of sin…is death…
Oh Friends, Bruh David’s cry has been an ongoing occurrence ever since the Lord brought the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. When we find ourselves in rough waters, because of our disobedience, we cry out to Him for help. And, being the ever-loving and merciful Patron, He helps us. Sadly though, when prosperous and rollicking times return, we conveniently forget Him, until the unwise decisions of our sinful, disobedient desires once again cause us pain. And what…? We go running to Him one more time. And, being the fount of forgiveness and LOVE…He relieves our distress again. Oh People, when is it going to end eh? When are we going to wake up and learn that although He is ever-loving and forgiving, He is not a pushover. He will not allow us to take advantage of His merciful and forgiving nature forever. And this does not apply only to the overall society, but also to our individual lives. The Most High does expect us to make some mistakes, it’s the nature of the beast, but continual, wilful disobedience is entirely different. Hn! And then we have the ‘brass faced gall’ to run to Him and ask for help. Even on the odd occasion when He’s gotten tired of our two faced whimpering and said, forget it, I don’t know you, look elsewhere for help, and allows us to suffer some, it doesn’t even last long. The Israelites suffered what…couple hundred years in Egypt, 40 in the wilderness, and about another hundred in Babylon…a miniscule amount of time in His sight. And individually, the ‘sufferation’ time is usually even shorter. That’s why Bruh David, in one of his most powerful and poignant psalms, lamenting the continual disobedience of the Lord’s supposed people, was forced to plead; ‘Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men. For He satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.’ Friends, if individually confronted, we would all acknowledge the truth of those statements. So why, in heaven’s name, can’t we do better than we’re doing now eh? If each of us just improved our obedience to His will, just one ‘mite’ – remember ‘one one cocoa full basket,’ and ‘take care of the cents, the dollars will take care of themselves,’ – it’s the same way our society would benefit and improve, because a society is only a sum of individuals, whose behaviour, attitudes and beliefs, shape its overall outlook. So Friends, like Bruh David, I’m pleading with us, starting today, right now, let’s all clean up our individual acts, before it affects our society in some horrendous, negative manner… time’s running out. Much LOVE!…apparently we’ve forgotten…that the wages of sin…is death…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 13 January 2008 Psalm 43:5
13 Jan 2008 Leave a comment
Psalm 43:5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.
Give Him lots of thanks and praise People! For He’s such a kind, loving, gracious God who never ceases to amaze me. I had no problems finding a Bit today, it found me. I got up feeling somewhat down and tired. Nothing was really wrong, but there was just this general sense of dissatisfaction within my being. However, while going through my daily devotions, I opened this devotional titled ‘Footprints.’ Scripture with reflections inspired by the poem of the same name. It talks about walking on the beach and asking the Lord how come He promised to always walk with us and in good times there were two sets of footprints in the sand, but in times of trouble, there was only one. And the reply was, My Child, when you only saw one set of footprints, that’s when I carried you. Touche! Everyday I read a few passages from it, today though, I only read one, because as soon as I opened it, my eyes fell right on that quote of Bruh David. And you know what? The malaise in my soul immediately disappeared, I knew that all would be well, and my spirits soared. O thank you Lord! Obviously I had to chuckle at His behind the scenes machinations, and as always, His timing was magnificent. So how can I not LOVE and cherish Him eh? How can we all not revere Him? He’s never broken a promise, and never will. Bruh David learned this from hard experience, that’s why even at his lowest, he could confidently say, ‘Hope in God.’ I’m sure we can all remember times, I remember many, when we’d thought that ‘crapaud had finally smoked we pipe’ (smile) but with impeccable timing, right on the ball, He came through for us. O Friends, the enemy is constantly bombarding us with emissions of evil, and we’re not always strong enough to resist them by ourselves, but with the Most High, before, behind and beside us…well people, the enemy doesn’t stand a chance…even in hell! How awesome and appropriate! The devil can’t even win in his own backyard with the Most High on our team. So let’s all rise up and give Him thanks and praise for being ‘the health of our countenance, and our God,’ such a wonderful Father, to his wayward and oftimes disobedient children. Praise His Holy Name People! Hn,hn! I’m so fired up now that I’ve got to force my self to stop. (smile) It’s the easiest Bit I’ve written so far. Can’t get any easier. Whoa! Lemme shut up yes, because Our Mighty God, with His exquisite sense of humour, and with whom all things are possible, might one day, just for the fun of it, decide to prove me wrong, or make it harder now, because I’ve gotten cocky. But Friends, whichever way it runs, I know He’ll be there for me. Much LOVE!…and always remember…when the way seems dark and dreary… don’t lose faith…still hope in God…even more… if that’s possible…for He’s the Way…the Truth…and the Light…
Give Him lots of thanks and praise People! For He’s such a kind, loving, gracious God who never ceases to amaze me. I had no problems finding a Bit today, it found me. I got up feeling somewhat down and tired. Nothing was really wrong, but there was just this general sense of dissatisfaction within my being. However, while going through my daily devotions, I opened this devotional titled ‘Footprints.’ Scripture with reflections inspired by the poem of the same name. It talks about walking on the beach and asking the Lord how come He promised to always walk with us and in good times there were two sets of footprints in the sand, but in times of trouble, there was only one. And the reply was, My Child, when you only saw one set of footprints, that’s when I carried you. Touche! Everyday I read a few passages from it, today though, I only read one, because as soon as I opened it, my eyes fell right on that quote of Bruh David. And you know what? The malaise in my soul immediately disappeared, I knew that all would be well, and my spirits soared. O thank you Lord! Obviously I had to chuckle at His behind the scenes machinations, and as always, His timing was magnificent. So how can I not LOVE and cherish Him eh? How can we all not revere Him? He’s never broken a promise, and never will. Bruh David learned this from hard experience, that’s why even at his lowest, he could confidently say, ‘Hope in God.’ I’m sure we can all remember times, I remember many, when we’d thought that ‘crapaud had finally smoked we pipe’ (smile) but with impeccable timing, right on the ball, He came through for us. O Friends, the enemy is constantly bombarding us with emissions of evil, and we’re not always strong enough to resist them by ourselves, but with the Most High, before, behind and beside us…well people, the enemy doesn’t stand a chance…even in hell! How awesome and appropriate! The devil can’t even win in his own backyard with the Most High on our team. So let’s all rise up and give Him thanks and praise for being ‘the health of our countenance, and our God,’ such a wonderful Father, to his wayward and oftimes disobedient children. Praise His Holy Name People! Hn,hn! I’m so fired up now that I’ve got to force my self to stop. (smile) It’s the easiest Bit I’ve written so far. Can’t get any easier. Whoa! Lemme shut up yes, because Our Mighty God, with His exquisite sense of humour, and with whom all things are possible, might one day, just for the fun of it, decide to prove me wrong, or make it harder now, because I’ve gotten cocky. But Friends, whichever way it runs, I know He’ll be there for me. Much LOVE!…and always remember…when the way seems dark and dreary… don’t lose faith…still hope in God…even more… if that’s possible…for He’s the Way…the Truth…and the Light…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 12 January 2008 Habakkuk 2:9
12 Jan 2008 Leave a comment
Habakkuk 2:9 Woe to him that coveteth an evil covetousness to his house, that he may set his nest on high, that he may be delivered from the power of evil.
Remember this Friends? Thou shalt not covet! It’s one of those ten basic rules the Most High instructed the Israelites to live by after he brought them out of bondage in Egypt. Not that they followed it. Neither do we. To covet, simply means badly wanting something that’s not ours, craving another’s belongings. It’s only natural to see other people’s possessions and desire to have likewise. The problem arises when we desire it so badly it becomes an obsession. Then we must have it at any cost. That drives us to do negative or evil acts to satisfy that greedy, ‘gravalicious’ desire. It’s an interesting web of words that Habakkuk weaves in Today’s Bit. Covet an evil covetousness, to set his nest on high, to be delivered from the power of evil. Hn! It’s bad enough to covet, but to crave something evil is even worse. And it only heaps more burning coals of fire on your head when the evil you covet is a means of exalting your position, whether it be financial, social or political, in the false hope that your exalted position will keep the powers of darkness and evil away from your doors. Friends, that’s a losing proposition from the start. If you begin with greed and evil, you can only end with more greed and evil. Oh People! Please realize that once you get involved with greed and evil they just drag you down, further and further down into the bottomless abyss of dark despair and destruction. Neither of them bring anything constructive to the table. They are like parasites, leeches; attach themselves to a good and wholesome host, then suck the lifeblood out of it. And our prosperous world is so full of seemingly beautiful and appropriate things to have. But beware! All that glitters is not gold! Most of it is superficial stuff without any real substance. Another possible pothole lies in the price. To acquire some of it you might just have to sell your soul to the devil. Friends, is that a price we want to pay? No way! Nothing on this earth is worth that! Especially when we already have a provider and protector more powerful, loving and understanding than the evil one. Friends, let’s try to reduce our wanting for the enticing things of this world nuh. Some are nice to possess, and some we need, but most of it is only there to confuse and drive us crazy; right into the choking clutches of covetousness. Let’s try and be satisfied with what the Most High places on our plate. He will increase us when the time is right. Much LOVE!…remember…the forces of darkness can produce nothing but themselves…on an even greater scale…
Remember this Friends? Thou shalt not covet! It’s one of those ten basic rules the Most High instructed the Israelites to live by after he brought them out of bondage in Egypt. Not that they followed it. Neither do we. To covet, simply means badly wanting something that’s not ours, craving another’s belongings. It’s only natural to see other people’s possessions and desire to have likewise. The problem arises when we desire it so badly it becomes an obsession. Then we must have it at any cost. That drives us to do negative or evil acts to satisfy that greedy, ‘gravalicious’ desire. It’s an interesting web of words that Habakkuk weaves in Today’s Bit. Covet an evil covetousness, to set his nest on high, to be delivered from the power of evil. Hn! It’s bad enough to covet, but to crave something evil is even worse. And it only heaps more burning coals of fire on your head when the evil you covet is a means of exalting your position, whether it be financial, social or political, in the false hope that your exalted position will keep the powers of darkness and evil away from your doors. Friends, that’s a losing proposition from the start. If you begin with greed and evil, you can only end with more greed and evil. Oh People! Please realize that once you get involved with greed and evil they just drag you down, further and further down into the bottomless abyss of dark despair and destruction. Neither of them bring anything constructive to the table. They are like parasites, leeches; attach themselves to a good and wholesome host, then suck the lifeblood out of it. And our prosperous world is so full of seemingly beautiful and appropriate things to have. But beware! All that glitters is not gold! Most of it is superficial stuff without any real substance. Another possible pothole lies in the price. To acquire some of it you might just have to sell your soul to the devil. Friends, is that a price we want to pay? No way! Nothing on this earth is worth that! Especially when we already have a provider and protector more powerful, loving and understanding than the evil one. Friends, let’s try to reduce our wanting for the enticing things of this world nuh. Some are nice to possess, and some we need, but most of it is only there to confuse and drive us crazy; right into the choking clutches of covetousness. Let’s try and be satisfied with what the Most High places on our plate. He will increase us when the time is right. Much LOVE!…remember…the forces of darkness can produce nothing but themselves…on an even greater scale…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 January 2008 Ezekiel 34: 15-16
11 Jan 2008 Leave a comment
Ezekiel 34:15-16 I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord God. I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and strong: I will feed them with judgement.
What a kind and loving Father! It seems His heart is always with the poor and suffering; the underdog. In Ezekiel 34, He’s telling the prophet to cry out and prophesy against the rulers of Israel, because they were being greedy, keeping the fat of the land for themselves, not sharing it with the struggling multitude, like good shepherds should. ‘Should not the shepherd feed the flock?’ He testily enquires. Friends, the same thing is happening today all over out turbulent, turmoil filled world, A few have a lot, while a lot have little. And it makes me wonder about the wisdom of our rulers. Don’t they realize that at some stage, oppressed people, either give up and die without a fight, or with nothing left to lose, they rise up and attack their oppressors, and then everybody loses? It’s currently happening in so many different parts of the world, and has happened so often throughout history, that you’d think rulers would learn and allow their flocks to acquire a greater proportion of the land’s bounty, so they could live comfortably and not be too jealous of the shepherd’s wealth. The few will still have more than the many, but the distribution would not be as inequitable and cause less contention. But I guess, as the man says, power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. It’s just something inherent in that vehicle termed power, that negatively affects our brain and better judgement. But fear not People! The Most High is in our corner, and the wicked shall not prosper long. Our Heavenly Shepherd says that He will feed His flock and cause them to lie down in comfort. That’s us Friends! The Lord promises to look after us; to find the lost, return the exiled, rebuild the broken and heal the sick. After that, He’ll deal with the down-pressors; they’ll pay the price for their evil deeds. What an awesome promise from a faithful Patriarch! How can we not revere and worship Him eh? Oh People! The world’s in turmoil. Why? We don’t know, and possibly couldn’t comprehend anyway. But please, be absolutely sure of two facts: The Lord Jehovah is still in control. And He is looking over us with loving kindness, like a truly good shepherd does His flock. And in His own time and manner He will straighten out everything. Much LOVE!…no need to fear… our God is here…
What a kind and loving Father! It seems His heart is always with the poor and suffering; the underdog. In Ezekiel 34, He’s telling the prophet to cry out and prophesy against the rulers of Israel, because they were being greedy, keeping the fat of the land for themselves, not sharing it with the struggling multitude, like good shepherds should. ‘Should not the shepherd feed the flock?’ He testily enquires. Friends, the same thing is happening today all over out turbulent, turmoil filled world, A few have a lot, while a lot have little. And it makes me wonder about the wisdom of our rulers. Don’t they realize that at some stage, oppressed people, either give up and die without a fight, or with nothing left to lose, they rise up and attack their oppressors, and then everybody loses? It’s currently happening in so many different parts of the world, and has happened so often throughout history, that you’d think rulers would learn and allow their flocks to acquire a greater proportion of the land’s bounty, so they could live comfortably and not be too jealous of the shepherd’s wealth. The few will still have more than the many, but the distribution would not be as inequitable and cause less contention. But I guess, as the man says, power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. It’s just something inherent in that vehicle termed power, that negatively affects our brain and better judgement. But fear not People! The Most High is in our corner, and the wicked shall not prosper long. Our Heavenly Shepherd says that He will feed His flock and cause them to lie down in comfort. That’s us Friends! The Lord promises to look after us; to find the lost, return the exiled, rebuild the broken and heal the sick. After that, He’ll deal with the down-pressors; they’ll pay the price for their evil deeds. What an awesome promise from a faithful Patriarch! How can we not revere and worship Him eh? Oh People! The world’s in turmoil. Why? We don’t know, and possibly couldn’t comprehend anyway. But please, be absolutely sure of two facts: The Lord Jehovah is still in control. And He is looking over us with loving kindness, like a truly good shepherd does His flock. And in His own time and manner He will straighten out everything. Much LOVE!…no need to fear… our God is here…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 January 2008 Acts 15: 39-41
10 Jan 2008 Leave a comment
Acts 15:39-41 And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus. And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.
Oh People! Why must there always be contention to split us apart eh? And sadly, the disagreement is usually over small, unimportant things. Today’s Bit exposes disunity in the early days of the church, a disunity that has continued unabated to this day. The first problem was whether the Gentiles (non Jews) could receive the Holy Spirit, which they did after Peter spoke to them at Cornelius’ house. Then it was the matter of circumcision. Must they undergo it to be true believers? This was finally settled at a meeting in Jerusalem between the Apostles and the Elders. The answer was No! Once they followed the ten commandments, they were okay. So they wrote letters outlining this and sent Paul, Barnabas, Silas and Judas Barsabas to the Gentiles at Antioch, Syria and Cilicia, informing them of this doctrinal breakthrough. Now, after a wonderful reception in Antioch and a few days of good ministry, Paul tells Barnabas it’s time to go and visit the other churches at which they had preached, to see how they were doing. Barnabas agrees, but the bone of contention is whom to take with them. Barnabas wants John Mark. Hn! No way! says Paul. Apparently John Mark had left them in the lurch earlier on at Pamphylia. The Bit says, ‘the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other.’ That indicates a big argument. But Friends, was that really necessary? Was it such a weighty matter that it should cause a split between them? I don’t think so. But obviously they did. So Barnabas took John Mark and went to Cyprus, while Paul took Silas to Syria and Cilicia. And it’s been the story of the church ever since. From the problems with the early Popes in the Roman Catholic set, to Henry V111’s breaking away and proclaiming the Anglican set, to the Reformation with Martin Luther and others splitting it even further, to today, where problems of homosexuality, female and married priests tend to splinter it yet again. It’s surprising that all of this contention could spring from the same, single root; from the birth, work, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He must sometimes shakes His head in sad amazement. Friends, I don’t know the answers or solutions to the problems that we feel beset us. I just know that the strife and turmoil, both within the small denominations and the larger Ecclesiastical movement is unhealthy and causing unnecessary harm. How can we expect non-believers to accept our faith in J.C when they see us fighting so foolishly amongst ourselves eh? For all our sakes, and those of future generations too, we’ve got to reduce both the tension and contention. That’s the only way we can ever hope to really accomplish our mission; spreading the sincere LOVE and Word of our Heavenly Father. Much LOVE!…consider this eternal truth…there’s only ONE GOD…!
Oh People! Why must there always be contention to split us apart eh? And sadly, the disagreement is usually over small, unimportant things. Today’s Bit exposes disunity in the early days of the church, a disunity that has continued unabated to this day. The first problem was whether the Gentiles (non Jews) could receive the Holy Spirit, which they did after Peter spoke to them at Cornelius’ house. Then it was the matter of circumcision. Must they undergo it to be true believers? This was finally settled at a meeting in Jerusalem between the Apostles and the Elders. The answer was No! Once they followed the ten commandments, they were okay. So they wrote letters outlining this and sent Paul, Barnabas, Silas and Judas Barsabas to the Gentiles at Antioch, Syria and Cilicia, informing them of this doctrinal breakthrough. Now, after a wonderful reception in Antioch and a few days of good ministry, Paul tells Barnabas it’s time to go and visit the other churches at which they had preached, to see how they were doing. Barnabas agrees, but the bone of contention is whom to take with them. Barnabas wants John Mark. Hn! No way! says Paul. Apparently John Mark had left them in the lurch earlier on at Pamphylia. The Bit says, ‘the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other.’ That indicates a big argument. But Friends, was that really necessary? Was it such a weighty matter that it should cause a split between them? I don’t think so. But obviously they did. So Barnabas took John Mark and went to Cyprus, while Paul took Silas to Syria and Cilicia. And it’s been the story of the church ever since. From the problems with the early Popes in the Roman Catholic set, to Henry V111’s breaking away and proclaiming the Anglican set, to the Reformation with Martin Luther and others splitting it even further, to today, where problems of homosexuality, female and married priests tend to splinter it yet again. It’s surprising that all of this contention could spring from the same, single root; from the birth, work, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He must sometimes shakes His head in sad amazement. Friends, I don’t know the answers or solutions to the problems that we feel beset us. I just know that the strife and turmoil, both within the small denominations and the larger Ecclesiastical movement is unhealthy and causing unnecessary harm. How can we expect non-believers to accept our faith in J.C when they see us fighting so foolishly amongst ourselves eh? For all our sakes, and those of future generations too, we’ve got to reduce both the tension and contention. That’s the only way we can ever hope to really accomplish our mission; spreading the sincere LOVE and Word of our Heavenly Father. Much LOVE!…consider this eternal truth…there’s only ONE GOD…!
Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 January 2008 Proverbs 8:18-19
09 Jan 2008 Leave a comment
Proverbs 8: 18-19 Riches and honour are with me: yea, durable riches and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.
Words from the Wisest One, Friends, Solomon. Words filled with truth and understanding. Wealth and fame can be easily achieved in this crazy world of ours. That’s why so many people make and lose several fortunes in their short lifetimes. There are also those who’ve being lifted up, placed on pedestals, given celebrity status and fawned over. However, when some Achilles heel is discovered shortly thereafter, they are toppled from their high places, with obvious relish, their name and business summarily dragged through the mud, all their past glory forgotten. A current example of that is Britney Spears. A few years ago she was a Pop Princess, a media darling, selling millions of albums around the world. Then something happened. Who really knows what? And suddenly everything changed. Her whole life suffered a terrible melt down. Now she’s become the whipping girl of the media, a pariah, a social outcast. And instead of offering help, we mercilessly track her every move, chronicle it and ridicule her. For what? Something that we helped to build. Giving them fame and fortune at too young an age, without the necessary tools to handle it properly. Meanwhile the greedy media trumpets the supposedly glamorous lives they live, and we lap it up greedily in our boring, humdrum, everyday existence. If we did not subscribe to this cult of the celebrity nonsense, the media would never be hounding them for any sliver of gossip to satisfy our sadistic hunger. Hn! And now that Britney’s teenaged sister is pregnant out of wedlock…Mama yo! The Spears name is mud twice over, with all the hypocrites jumping up to judge them. But Friends, please note, that lasting wealth and recognition cannot be made overnight or through some world power. As Solomon puts it, ‘durable riches and righteousness’ can only be obtained through association with the Most High God, Jehovah. ‘Riches and honour are with me,’ He truthfully declares. The benefits we receive from our association with Him, things like peace, LOVE, mercy, understanding, forgiveness and eternal salvation are far better than gold and silver, even the finest there is. So why are we so hooked on the disposable, easy come, easy go riches of this material world eh? Please, let’s try and change our focus. Let’s turn our sights to the ‘durable riches and righteousness’ only to be found by following our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Much LOVE! …remember…man’s riches never last long…but God’s… His lasts forever…
Words from the Wisest One, Friends, Solomon. Words filled with truth and understanding. Wealth and fame can be easily achieved in this crazy world of ours. That’s why so many people make and lose several fortunes in their short lifetimes. There are also those who’ve being lifted up, placed on pedestals, given celebrity status and fawned over. However, when some Achilles heel is discovered shortly thereafter, they are toppled from their high places, with obvious relish, their name and business summarily dragged through the mud, all their past glory forgotten. A current example of that is Britney Spears. A few years ago she was a Pop Princess, a media darling, selling millions of albums around the world. Then something happened. Who really knows what? And suddenly everything changed. Her whole life suffered a terrible melt down. Now she’s become the whipping girl of the media, a pariah, a social outcast. And instead of offering help, we mercilessly track her every move, chronicle it and ridicule her. For what? Something that we helped to build. Giving them fame and fortune at too young an age, without the necessary tools to handle it properly. Meanwhile the greedy media trumpets the supposedly glamorous lives they live, and we lap it up greedily in our boring, humdrum, everyday existence. If we did not subscribe to this cult of the celebrity nonsense, the media would never be hounding them for any sliver of gossip to satisfy our sadistic hunger. Hn! And now that Britney’s teenaged sister is pregnant out of wedlock…Mama yo! The Spears name is mud twice over, with all the hypocrites jumping up to judge them. But Friends, please note, that lasting wealth and recognition cannot be made overnight or through some world power. As Solomon puts it, ‘durable riches and righteousness’ can only be obtained through association with the Most High God, Jehovah. ‘Riches and honour are with me,’ He truthfully declares. The benefits we receive from our association with Him, things like peace, LOVE, mercy, understanding, forgiveness and eternal salvation are far better than gold and silver, even the finest there is. So why are we so hooked on the disposable, easy come, easy go riches of this material world eh? Please, let’s try and change our focus. Let’s turn our sights to the ‘durable riches and righteousness’ only to be found by following our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Much LOVE! …remember…man’s riches never last long…but God’s… His lasts forever…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 8 January 2008 Acts 10: 34-35
08 Jan 2008 Leave a comment
Acts 10: 34-35 Then Peter opened his mouth and said, Of a truth, I perceive that God is no respecter of persons. But in every nation, he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
Friends, another awesome truth about our God. He doesn’t care who you are or where you’re from. Your nationality and race are unimportant. Once you revere Him and do His will, then He enfolds you in His warm, loving arms and calls you, ‘My precious child.’ He certainly chose a long, roundabout manner to teach Peter this powerful truth though. But that’s His style; unique and unpredictable. He could have simply said, ‘Look Peter, I don’t care about a person’s background, once you believe in Me and do what I ask, you’re mine.’ But no, He had to lay out a convoluted plot, with lot’s of intrigue and suspense, like a good thriller writer. I think He just revels in the suspense and drama. In fact, the first lesson in any Writing Course, should be looking through the Bible to see how the Most High constructs His scenes. All the essential elements are there; perfect stage setting, foreshadowing, beautiful flowing language, and obviously lots of suspense and drama, of which He’s a master, all building nicely to a climactic ending. For this lesson, He had Peter hungry on a roof top, fall into a trance and see a vision about all sorts of animals, then instruct him to get up and kill and eat, with Peter proudly claiming that he’s never eaten anything common or unclean, and God declaring that what He’d cleansed, Peter shouldn’t call unclean. And He did that three times before poor Peter woke up all confused. But talk about timing! Hn! That’s His forte. And while Peter was all ‘confuffled’ on the roof, the Lord kindly informed him that three men were at the front door seeking him, quite true, that he should get up and go with them, without any doubts, because he had sent them. Those men had been sent to Joppa, from Caesarea, by one Cornelius, an army commander of a group called the Italian band. Cornelius, though not a Jew, was a devout follower, always praying and doing good works. Around this same time, he also saw a vision of an Angel coming to him and calling his name. Scared, he asked what was happening? God told him that he was being honoured for his prayers and good works, and that he should send the men to Joppa to get Simon. Gave him his surname, Peter, and address, a house by the seaside, owned by another Simon, a tanner. To make a long story short (smile) two days later, Peter and a few Joppa brethren ended up at Cornelius’ house. Cornelius met him at the gate and fell at his feet in worship. But Peter pulled him upright, saying that he was a man just like him. When they entered the house many people were gathered there to meet and greet and hear him. Taken aback, Peter reminded his host that it was unlawful for Jews to keep company with other nationalities, but God had shown him not to call anybody common or unclean, so even without knowing why, he came when called. Then Cornelius gave him, his side of the story. Suddenly Peter understood, and made that dramatic utterance in Today’s Bit; ‘God is no respecter of persons.’ What a story Friends! Only our powerful, magnificent God, with a touch of humour, irony and drama in His soul, could have concocted such a moving tale. Please, let’s remember it, and don’t be too proud and self righteous, thinking that the faith has only been appointed to people like us. Much LOVE!…believe and follow…the only requirements to be a child of God…
Friends, another awesome truth about our God. He doesn’t care who you are or where you’re from. Your nationality and race are unimportant. Once you revere Him and do His will, then He enfolds you in His warm, loving arms and calls you, ‘My precious child.’ He certainly chose a long, roundabout manner to teach Peter this powerful truth though. But that’s His style; unique and unpredictable. He could have simply said, ‘Look Peter, I don’t care about a person’s background, once you believe in Me and do what I ask, you’re mine.’ But no, He had to lay out a convoluted plot, with lot’s of intrigue and suspense, like a good thriller writer. I think He just revels in the suspense and drama. In fact, the first lesson in any Writing Course, should be looking through the Bible to see how the Most High constructs His scenes. All the essential elements are there; perfect stage setting, foreshadowing, beautiful flowing language, and obviously lots of suspense and drama, of which He’s a master, all building nicely to a climactic ending. For this lesson, He had Peter hungry on a roof top, fall into a trance and see a vision about all sorts of animals, then instruct him to get up and kill and eat, with Peter proudly claiming that he’s never eaten anything common or unclean, and God declaring that what He’d cleansed, Peter shouldn’t call unclean. And He did that three times before poor Peter woke up all confused. But talk about timing! Hn! That’s His forte. And while Peter was all ‘confuffled’ on the roof, the Lord kindly informed him that three men were at the front door seeking him, quite true, that he should get up and go with them, without any doubts, because he had sent them. Those men had been sent to Joppa, from Caesarea, by one Cornelius, an army commander of a group called the Italian band. Cornelius, though not a Jew, was a devout follower, always praying and doing good works. Around this same time, he also saw a vision of an Angel coming to him and calling his name. Scared, he asked what was happening? God told him that he was being honoured for his prayers and good works, and that he should send the men to Joppa to get Simon. Gave him his surname, Peter, and address, a house by the seaside, owned by another Simon, a tanner. To make a long story short (smile) two days later, Peter and a few Joppa brethren ended up at Cornelius’ house. Cornelius met him at the gate and fell at his feet in worship. But Peter pulled him upright, saying that he was a man just like him. When they entered the house many people were gathered there to meet and greet and hear him. Taken aback, Peter reminded his host that it was unlawful for Jews to keep company with other nationalities, but God had shown him not to call anybody common or unclean, so even without knowing why, he came when called. Then Cornelius gave him, his side of the story. Suddenly Peter understood, and made that dramatic utterance in Today’s Bit; ‘God is no respecter of persons.’ What a story Friends! Only our powerful, magnificent God, with a touch of humour, irony and drama in His soul, could have concocted such a moving tale. Please, let’s remember it, and don’t be too proud and self righteous, thinking that the faith has only been appointed to people like us. Much LOVE!…believe and follow…the only requirements to be a child of God…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 7 January 2008 Daniel 11:32
07 Jan 2008 Leave a comment
Daniel 11:32 And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong and do exploits.
Yes Friends, more encouraging words to help us along the straight and narrow path we’ve chosen to tread. This time from Daniel, that visionary of the Jewish people, who rose to prominence in the Babylonian Empire through the machinations of the Most High, so that he could be a light to his people. Wow! What a mouthful! (smile). Anyway, in Chapter 11, Daniel is being informed by an Angel, of the turmoil to befall the Babylonians through the Medes and Persians. This one King though, having suffered a humiliating defeat in battle would return to his people with much anger against the Holy Covenant, and would join forces with those who did not abide by it. He would further corrupt them through flattery. Friends beware! Flattery; pretty words and empty promises was a powerful tool then, it’s even more powerful now, and it’s very easy to fall under its enticing spell. That’s what our modern advertising, public relations and con-artist industries are based on; flattery. If you buy this or that, or join so and so, what wonders it will do for you; make you pretty, fashionable, rich, will elevate you to greater performances or higher levels or whatever. And sadly, although we know that most of it is false, it’s rubbish, so great is our either our greed or desire to conform, to move, or appear to move amongst the in-crowd, the fashionable, the movers and shakers, we fall for the lies and purchase the useless commodities, give our hard earned money to scam artists or join some dubious, unholy group. Luckily though, the Angel went on to explain to Daniel, ‘but the people that know their God, shall be strong and do exploits.’ Praise the Lord my Friends! That’s us, he’s talking about; the people who know their God. We are strong. We won’t fall for the flimsy, chocolate covered, brass plated inducements and enticements that the enemy proclaims is solid gold. We know better than that..hn! hopefully (smile) But we’ve still got to be very careful because the enemy is very crafty and can dream up stuff that appears good and wholesome, but is actually deceiving and worthless. So let’s take our time and check things out properly before we rush into them, since hype is now in ascendance over substance, and the technical wizardry now available, can make a lump of coal appear to be a nugget of gold. Let’s be strong and do endearing, worthwhile exploits, and not cause the enemy’s wiles to induce us into breaking the Covenants, neither the old one God made with Abraham, or the new one Jesus made with us. Much LOVE!…remember…all that glitters is not gold…
Yes Friends, more encouraging words to help us along the straight and narrow path we’ve chosen to tread. This time from Daniel, that visionary of the Jewish people, who rose to prominence in the Babylonian Empire through the machinations of the Most High, so that he could be a light to his people. Wow! What a mouthful! (smile). Anyway, in Chapter 11, Daniel is being informed by an Angel, of the turmoil to befall the Babylonians through the Medes and Persians. This one King though, having suffered a humiliating defeat in battle would return to his people with much anger against the Holy Covenant, and would join forces with those who did not abide by it. He would further corrupt them through flattery. Friends beware! Flattery; pretty words and empty promises was a powerful tool then, it’s even more powerful now, and it’s very easy to fall under its enticing spell. That’s what our modern advertising, public relations and con-artist industries are based on; flattery. If you buy this or that, or join so and so, what wonders it will do for you; make you pretty, fashionable, rich, will elevate you to greater performances or higher levels or whatever. And sadly, although we know that most of it is false, it’s rubbish, so great is our either our greed or desire to conform, to move, or appear to move amongst the in-crowd, the fashionable, the movers and shakers, we fall for the lies and purchase the useless commodities, give our hard earned money to scam artists or join some dubious, unholy group. Luckily though, the Angel went on to explain to Daniel, ‘but the people that know their God, shall be strong and do exploits.’ Praise the Lord my Friends! That’s us, he’s talking about; the people who know their God. We are strong. We won’t fall for the flimsy, chocolate covered, brass plated inducements and enticements that the enemy proclaims is solid gold. We know better than that..hn! hopefully (smile) But we’ve still got to be very careful because the enemy is very crafty and can dream up stuff that appears good and wholesome, but is actually deceiving and worthless. So let’s take our time and check things out properly before we rush into them, since hype is now in ascendance over substance, and the technical wizardry now available, can make a lump of coal appear to be a nugget of gold. Let’s be strong and do endearing, worthwhile exploits, and not cause the enemy’s wiles to induce us into breaking the Covenants, neither the old one God made with Abraham, or the new one Jesus made with us. Much LOVE!…remember…all that glitters is not gold…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 6 January 2008 Hebrews 6: 10-12
06 Jan 2008 Leave a comment
Hebrews 6: 10-12 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints and do minister. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end. That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
That’s a veritable truth Friends! Our God will never, and I repeat, never, forget the work we do in His name. He is too just and faithful for that. Bruh Paul was a master encourager, and in Today’s Bit we find him doing just that; encouraging the Hebrews to continue doing their good works to those in need, to continue their LABOUR of LOVE. I think it’s a rather appropriate term for our walk of faith, because it’s not an easy walk, it’s full of pitfalls, sorrow and disappointment, but we do it in the name of LOVE: LOVE for the Father, who first LOVED us, and requires us to LOVE others the same way. Paul further recommends that believers be very diligent, hard working individuals, not slothful and lazy, having hope, lots of it, right to the very end of our days. Easy to say, but much harder to do, since not many of us possess Paul’s proselytizing zeal and fervour, and moreover, today, there are many, many more attractive distractions than in Paul’s time. However, he does suggest that we can possibly lead fruitful lives by following others who lived that way; finding role models whose lives were staunchly and steadfastly based on the cornerstones of Christianity; Hope, that begets Faith, which in turn builds Patience, that enables us to wait for the wonderful things promised by our faithful Father for those who do His will. Friends, I know it’s difficult nowadays to find believers who genuinely fulfil those requirements, so I’m throwing out a question, an idea, a suggestion, call it what you will; why don’t we become role models for others eh? Ponder that nuh. It makes sense. If we can’t find any to follow, then let’s become those whom others can follow. The Lord will surely bless us for our faithfulness. Much LOVE!…when the roll is called up yonder…let’s be numbered amongst the faithful guides nuh…
That’s a veritable truth Friends! Our God will never, and I repeat, never, forget the work we do in His name. He is too just and faithful for that. Bruh Paul was a master encourager, and in Today’s Bit we find him doing just that; encouraging the Hebrews to continue doing their good works to those in need, to continue their LABOUR of LOVE. I think it’s a rather appropriate term for our walk of faith, because it’s not an easy walk, it’s full of pitfalls, sorrow and disappointment, but we do it in the name of LOVE: LOVE for the Father, who first LOVED us, and requires us to LOVE others the same way. Paul further recommends that believers be very diligent, hard working individuals, not slothful and lazy, having hope, lots of it, right to the very end of our days. Easy to say, but much harder to do, since not many of us possess Paul’s proselytizing zeal and fervour, and moreover, today, there are many, many more attractive distractions than in Paul’s time. However, he does suggest that we can possibly lead fruitful lives by following others who lived that way; finding role models whose lives were staunchly and steadfastly based on the cornerstones of Christianity; Hope, that begets Faith, which in turn builds Patience, that enables us to wait for the wonderful things promised by our faithful Father for those who do His will. Friends, I know it’s difficult nowadays to find believers who genuinely fulfil those requirements, so I’m throwing out a question, an idea, a suggestion, call it what you will; why don’t we become role models for others eh? Ponder that nuh. It makes sense. If we can’t find any to follow, then let’s become those whom others can follow. The Lord will surely bless us for our faithfulness. Much LOVE!…when the roll is called up yonder…let’s be numbered amongst the faithful guides nuh…
