Please Remember that Jesus is the Reason for the Christmas Season!

08 Dec 2024 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Luke 2:14.       Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And the days are running fast ahead. Can you imagine it’s already the 8th of December, a month that began just a few days ago? (smile) It’s also the Second Sunday of Advent, our season of waiting for the birth of Christ, and His eventual Second coming in all His glory. And today we light a second purple candle that signifies our hope in Christ. And as this commentary tells us: ‘Hope has two meanings in the Bible: First, Tikvah, depicts the sense of eager anticipation or waiting. The second, Elpis, is used when explaining a sense of confident expectation based on certainty.’ 

And are we ever waiting with a sense of eager anticipation, with a sense of confident expectation, based on the certainty that our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is coming back, because He promised it, and He never reneges on His promises. So, today, we’ll open our session of fellowship in the Lord’s sanctuary with this popular Christmas Hymn, ‘O Come, All Ye Faithful,’ an adaptation of a Latin hymn ‘Adeste Fidelis,’ written sometime in the eighteenth century by author(s) unknown. 

The song deals with the biblical story of the birth of Christ and the shepherds to whom the angels made the first announcement of His miraculous birth, and then their going to Bethlehem to adore their new-born, Saviour. However, in these current tremulous and turbulent times, the hymn signifies and celebrates our coming together in worship to adore the LOVING blessing of Jesus, as He sacrificed Himself for our salvation. So, knowing all that, let’s raise up our sweet sacrifices of praise in a rich, scintillating, heartfelt, up-tempo version of the song. 

Singing: ‘O come, all ye faithful, Joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem. Come and behold Him, Born the King of Angels! (Chorus: O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.) God of God, light of light, Lo, he abhors not the Virgin’s womb; True God, begotten, not created: (Chorus) 

O Sing, choirs of angels; sing in exultation O sing, all ye citizens of heav’n above. Give to our Father, Glory in the highest! (Chorus) Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, Born this happy morning; Jesus, to Thee be the glory giv’n; Word of the Father, Now in the flesh appearing, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.’ 

Wonderful friends, wonderful! Heaven certainly knows that we appreciate Jesus’ birth way back then, as He came to provide forgiveness and salvation for us, something that no one else could do! And at that time, because of a decree from Herod that all the world should be taxed or registered for a census, it meant all the men going to their hometowns. Consequently, Joseph and a very pregnant Mary, Jesus’ parents, were forced to travel to Bethlehem because he was of the line of David. 

The Bible tells the story thus: ‘And so it was, that while they were there, the days were accomplished (completed) that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her first-born son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger (feed trough); because there was no room for them at the inn.’ (Luke 2:6-7) Can you imagine that, the Lord allowing His Son to be born in a stable and placed in a feed trough as His cradle? That was the very essence of humility, which came to be Jesus’ trademark. 

And the scholars tell us that swaddling clothes were bandage-like strips of cloth wrapped around an infant to ensure that the limbs would grow straight. Not to swaddle a child would be a form of abuse (Ezek. 16:2-4) This wrapping would aid the shepherds in identifying Jesus. 

‘The Bible then continues: ‘And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flocks by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon (stood before) them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were sore (greatly) afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David (Bethlehem) a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger (feed trough).’ Luke 2:8-12) 

Now, that sudden appearance of an angel with such news would have been enough to frighten even the most  courageous of men, but to mix it up even further, the Bible continues: ‘And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’  (Luke 2:13-14) There again, can you imagine a host of heavenly angels coming down to earth and singing before you? But remember, nothing’s impossible for out great God! But the Lord’s birth and the praise of the angelic host signified that peace and goodwill were being brought to earth for all men to enjoy…if they desired it. 

The Bible then says: ‘And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which the Lord hath made known to us.” (Luke 2:15) Obviously their inquisitiveness or curiosity was greater than their fear. ‘And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. 

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all that heard it wondered (marvelled) at those things which were told by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.’ (Luke 2:16-20) 

Yes friends, from the very beginning the Lord intended His Son to be a lowly born human being, although He was indeed great and mighty in His own right. And yuh see whom He chose to be the first to receive the news; lowly shepherds watching their flocks in the night. That again speaks of the low-level introduction that the Lord desired of Jesus and His birth. And for all the things that He has done for us, appearing in the flesh as a man, we certainly ought to be joyful and triumphant, adoring Him with all of our hearts, souls, bodies and minds! 

Yes! For He’s the True God, born of a virgin, begotten, not created, the Word of the Father, God of God, light of light and so many other things, that it would take us all day to name them! (smile) But friends, let’s enjoy this Christmas season, as we remember that Jesus is the reason for it, not the festivities surrounding it! Much LOVE!

… at Christmas time…it is essential that we remember Jesus…and what His birth signified…

Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien

Today’s Scrip-Bit   9 December 2023 Luke 1:37.

09 Dec 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Luke 1:37.       For with God nothing shall be impossible.

Oh, I do hope this lazy-day Saturday turns out like yesterday! Yesterday they promised that it would be mostly cloudy, but by lunchtime bright sunshine was engulfing the whole area, and we had sunshine for a few hours in the afternoon. Today, the forecasters are again calling for cloudy conditions, although with temps in double digits, but let’s hope the good Lord proves them wrong again, at least for a li’l while. (smile) In the meanwhile, as we slowly get up and reacquaint ourselves with life, let’s lift up our Lazy-Day Saturday prayer to heaven in all sincerity and truth. 

As one voice: ‘Lord, I want to be with You now. Please slow my thoughts and quiet my soul. Let my muscles relax, my breath deepen. You are here with me – Your peace and LOVE are present. I marvel to think You can’t be contained, that Your LOVE both surrounds and fills me. Thank You for this tenderness, Lord. I praise You for Your unceasing nearness. Increase my awareness of You today, that I may know You all the more. Amen!’ And hopefully that prayer brought to our souls, bodies and minds the peace, LOVE and quiet awareness of God’s Spirit that we asked for, and will enable us to live all the more for Him. 

And today, as we are going through the season of Advent, in quiet but exciting expectation of the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, I want us to look at how it all began, at how our magnificent God does move in mysterious and miraculous ways. Jesus’ birth was foretold by an angel. The Bible tells the story like this: ‘And in the sixth month, (of John the Baptist’s mother Elisabeth’s pregnancy) the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city in Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused (betrothed, engaged) to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail (rejoice), thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind (considered) what manner of salutation (greeting) this should be.’ (Luke 1:26-29) 

And that’s a normal response, or perhaps a better than normal response, for I’m sure, many of us, if as we’re going about our daily chores, we’re suddenly greeted by this spiritual apparition with that abnormal greeting, we’d be scared out of our skins and probably go running out the door. But Mary’s quiet and patient reaction speaks loads about her maturity and faith, though she was only a teenager. She did not react with fear, anger or any other negative emotion, just quietly sat and waited out Gabriel’s message. 

‘And the angel said unto her, fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest (Most High): and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.’ (Luke 1:30-33) Now can you imagine this young girl, whose life had only just begun, sitting there listening to this spiritual being tell her all those remarkable things that were going to happen to her. Most of us would have been overwhelmed with fretting and worry, but not Mary. She was confused about how such a thing could happen, but did not show any angry or negative reactions. 

The Bible tells us of her simple response. ‘Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man (I am a virgin)? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest (Most High) shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing (One) which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. And, behold, thy cousin (relative) Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. For with God nothing shall be impossible. And Mary said, Behold the hand maid (handmaiden) of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.’ (Luke 1:34-38) 

And all I can say to that is Wow! Just imagine that simple, unquestioning response nuh from a young girl who had been probably sheltered all of her young life. No tears, no tearing out of her hear, no apparent fear nor anger or whatever such an important announcement would usually bring. And to make matters worse, she had just recently been engaged and to have a child without being married, especially if it was not her betrothed’s, that would have been certain disaster to all concerned. But Mary was quiet and accepting of her fate, whatever turmoil it might cause in her life. 

And yuh know what, something just occurred to me that’s never really occurred to me before, re Mary’s simple acceptance of God’s outstanding favour. It’s obvious that God vetted all the young women very carefully to see who would and would not cause a scene, and even more likely had Mary in that time and place especially for that purpose, since the prophecy said that the Son of God would be born of a virgin, and had to be of the line of Bruh David. So let’s check out a few of those prophecies nuh, beginning with this one from Isaiah, where he talks about a sign from God. 

‘Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall call his name Immanuel (God with us).’ (Is. 7:14) Then in chapter nine Isaiah gets a little more explicit, when he writes of the birth of the Prince of Peace. ‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called, Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgement and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.’ (Is. 9:6-7) 

And perform it He did my brethren through the incarnate birth of Christ to the virgin Mary in the city of Bethlehem as prophesied by the prophet Micah. ‘But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little  among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be the ruler in Israel: whose goings forth have been from old, from everlasting (the days of eternity).’ (Mic. 5:2) 

Ah mih people, our Lord isn’t like us, He doesn’t do stuff in a vie-ke-vie (T&T slang) or careless, unplanned manner. His stuff is always well ordered and prepared, so that things fit together like a hand in a glove. And such was the birth of Jesus foretold hundreds of years before his actual birth and it all went as prophesied. Now, isn’t it a wonderful thing that our God isn’t vie-ke-vie like us, (smile) else we’d be in even more trouble than we currently are! Much LOVE!

…when God orders our steps…He knows what He’s doing…so stop fighting Him.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ          

Today’s Scrip-Bit 15 December 2019​ Luke 4:21.

15 Dec 2019 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Luke 4:21.    ​This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears (hearing).
 

Ah mih people, I don’t know where or how the weather people come up with their info nuh! Remember yesterday I said it was supposed to be rain with some ice pellets later in the day? Well yuh better believe that by the time I came upstairs from writing the Bit, outside was white, and it wasn’t no ice pellets nuh, but heavily falling snow, and by the evening hours it had turned back to rain again. Chuh! Yuh can’t trust nobody nowadays nuh! No wonder the man calls it all ‘fake news.’ (smile) 

What a good thing we have Jesus yes my people, else I don’t know what we’d do. He’s the Only One who keeps His promises, the Only One faithful to His word these days. And that’s the very reason we’re in His sanctuary today; to give Him thanks and praise for His faithfulness, for His goodness and mercy towards the undeserving children of men.

And as we get into the festive season of Christmas, where we celebrate His earthly birth, His first coming as a babe in swaddling clothes, in the appearance of a man, through His incarnate Birth, let’s remember that that occasion was one of the most  momentous in man’s history, the greatest gift given to mankind after the Lord breathed His breath of life into our mortal souls. 

So let’s celebrate those facts now by opening the proceedings with one of our favourite songs for this special season, titled ‘O Come All Ye Faithful.’ Now it’s an adaptation of the Latin hymn ‘Adeste Fidelis’ meaning ‘Come you faithful ones.’ But there’s no agreement as to who wrote the English version.

However as one web site describes it. ‘This popular Christmas Hymn harkens to the biblical story of the birth of Christ. It is considered a reference to the shepherds, after hearing the angels singing, coming to Bethlehem to adore their new-born savior. Today this hymn signifies and celebrates our coming together in worship to adore the LOVING blessing of Jesus, as He sacrificed Himself for our salvation.’ Wow! It couldn’t be said any better!’ 

So let’s do just that nuh; worship together in song, as we prepare to welcome the birth of our saviour. All together in strong voice, sweet harmony and sincere hearts: ‘O come, all ye faithful, Joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem. Come and behold Him, Born the King of Angels! (Chorus: O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.) God of God, light of light, Lo, he abhors not the Virgin’s womb; True God, begotten, not created: (Chorus)

O Sing, choirs of angels; sing in exultation, O sing, all ye citizens of heav’n above. Give to our Father, Glory in the highest! (Chorus) Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, Born this happy morning; Jesus, to Thee be the glory giv’n; Word of the Father, Now in the flesh appearing, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.’ 

Beautiful friends, just beautiful! True and praise worthy sentiments sung in sincere and praise worthy fashion! And an interesting thought just occurred to me: Does Jesus remember every year at Christmas, the time He came to earth, and does He celebrate His earthly birthday every year in heaven like we do on earth? And the same questions can be asked for such momentous occasions in His earthly life like Palm Sunday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday? Does He sit alone, somewhere quiet and ruminate on those oh so important occasions?

Or does He even sit with the Father, who apologizes for having to put Him through the ringer, abuse and forsake Him, because there was absolutely no other way to pay for the abominable sins of mankind? And I’m sure Jesus doesn’t hold it against the Father, but understands the bind that the Father had found Himself in, because that’s the understanding kind of person He is. (smile) Oh friends, it’s impossible not to LOVE Jesus when you truly know Him yes; know His warmth and compassion and care for us lost sheep. And I’m chuckling here. Look how all yuh have me gone off on a tangent here eh, instead of sticking to the script! 

And what is the script you ask? Well, though we might sing about Jesus, it all has to do with the glory of God. That’s what everything is about. As Bruh David said in his psalm – the King of glory: ‘Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lifted up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle.’ (Ps.24:7-8) Yes friends, that’s the King of glory – the Lord God Almighty! And Isaiah puts it thus when he speaks of the servant (Jesus) coming to glorify the Lord. 

‘Thus saith God the Lord, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein. I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of (to) the people, for a light of the Gentiles; To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house. I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images. Behold the former things have come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them.’ (Is.42:5-9) 

Ah my people, that was God’s promise of His Messiah – a covenant for the Jews, and a light to the Gentiles! And we all know it came to pass in the coming of Jesus. And Luke tells of the prophet Simeon who had been promised life until he saw the Lord’s Christ. When Jesus was presented at the temple, Simeon, through the awesome power of the Holy Spirit knew who he was, took him in his arms and blessed God, and repeated the words of Isaiah: ‘A light to lighten (to bring revelation to) the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.’ (Luke 2:32). 

And when Jesus taught in His hometown of Nazareth, He read Isaiah’s prophecy and promise from Chapter 49, verses 6-9, (Luke 4:18-19) basically the same ones in Chapter 42 above, foretelling the Messiah’s coming. Then He told them: ‘This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears (hearing).’ And when we hear it two thousand years later my people, it’s still blessing us! So let’s be thankful and give God all the glory nuh, for that’s how it ought to be. Much LOVE!

…for of him (God)…and through him…and to him…are ALL things…to whom be glory for ever…Amen… (Rom. 11:36)

 

 


Today’s Scrip-Bit 25 December 2018 Luke 2:7.

25 Dec 2018 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Luke 2:7.   ​And she brought forth her first-born son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger (feed trough); because there was no room for them in the inn.
 
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
‘Drink ah rum and ah punchacrema, drink ah rum! It’s Christmas morning!’ Ah mih people, in my area it might be a tad early to drink a rum and a punchacrema, although some of you on the other side of the world most likely have tibbled some already. (smile) I have a brand new bottle of the rich, creamy stuff to check out later. A friend sends me one every year, that’s his Christmas present to me. 

However, let’s get to the important stuff: It’s Christmas morning! Glory be my friends and Scrip-Bit family! We’ve lived to see another one of these monumental days that ushered in the beginnings of our faith! That miraculous immaculate conception of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, which ended up in His humble birth on this day some two thousand years ago in a lowly stable. 

 But that was just the planting of the seed, one of the four most important days in the annals of man, where God finally put His exemplary plan of salvation, free saving grace and eternal life for all and sundry into production, having promised it for numerous years before! Yes, it all began in a dirty animal stable with the birth of a baby boy called Jesus, our Emmanuel, our God with us! And there was such a racket around the fields of that little town of Bethlehem on this momentous night, that the world has never forgotten it. 

Now let’s remember it in praise and worshipful song as we sing the much adored song, ‘Joy to the world,’ written by that prolific writer Isaac Watts way back in the 18th century. Let’s raise the rafters with the joy that emanates from our hearts and souls this Christmas morning of 2018 as we joyously, joyfully, ‘joyeuxly’ (smile) declare: ‘Joy to the World; the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King! Let ev’ry heart prepare Him room, And Heaven and nature sing. (Repeat line twice) 

Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns! Let men their songs employ; While fields & floods, rocks, hills & plains Repeat the sounding joy. (Repeat line twice) No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make his blessings flow Far as the curse is found. (Repeat line twice) He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove The glories of His righteousness, And wonders of His love. (Repeat line twice) Joy to the World; the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King! Let ev’ry heart prepare Him room, And Heaven and nature sing. (Repeat line twice).’ 

Yeh friends on this Christmas Day there should be such explosive joy in EVERY Christian heart that we should just want to burst with LOVE for Christ! For He is indeed the Way, the Truth and the Light! The awesome means by which we are saved! For NO ONE comes to the Father BUT through Him! 

Now let’s take a look at some of the miraculous action that happened around Bethlehem on that most auspicious night. Now Joseph and the pregnant Mary had gone up to Bethlehem to be registered per Roman edict. And it so happens that while up there Mary’s time came upon her: ‘And she brought forth her first-born son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger (feed trough); because there was no room for them in the inn.’ 

Now one would think that the omnipotent Lord God Jehovah, His heavenly Father, could have made room for them at the inn, but He was out to prove a point by showing that humble and lowly beginnings don’t mean a thing! If His Son could be born in a loud, foul smelling barn of animals and do great things, so could any one else! 

Oh, listen to this explanation from the scholars: ‘2:7. Swaddling clothes were bandage-like strips of cloth wrapped around an infant to ensure that the limbs would grow straight. Not to swaddle a child would be a form of abuse (Ezek. 16:2-4). This wrapping would aid the shepherds in identifying Jesus.’ 

Now here’s the action! ‘And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon (stood before) them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore (greatly) afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 

For unto you is born this day in the city of David (Bethlehem) a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes (cloths), lying in a manger (feed trough). And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’ (Luke 2:8-14) 

Wow friends! Can you imagine that quiet, silent night in the fields around Bethlehem, with shepherds sleepily guarding their animals, when an angel suddenly appears and tells them about the birth of this heavenly child, then a host of other angels arrive and begin singing, glorifying God, and exuding peace on earth and good will to all mankind! The shepherds were probably expecting another quiet, uneventful night, when to their amazement, it suddenly turned into a rather raucous affair of praise and thanksgiving and good news! 

Oh my people, those shepherds were so excited by the news that the Good Book says: ‘And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered (marvelled) at those things which were told them by the shepherd. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.’ (Luke 2:16-20) 

Ah my people, as we celebrate this most auspicious occasion, please let’s remember why it all happened, for our benefit, and let’s do like those shepherds did so long ago, when they heard the good news, praise and glorify God for the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! 

And let’s not forget to declare our Tuesday Mantra which says who and whose we are; Christ’s! So as always, in strong voice with sincere hearts: ‘In God’s eyes, I’m not what I do. I’m not what I have. I’m not what people say about me. I am the beloved of God, that’s who I am. No one can take that from me. I don’t have to worry. I don’t have to hurry. I can trust my friend Jesus and share His LOVE with the world.  Amen!’ And today is definitely the day to share that awesome LOVE OF JESUS! Much LOVE!

…the first time He came humbly and without much fanfare…the next time though…the heavens will burst forth…and He’ll come as the royalty…the mighty King He truly is…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 15 December 2017 Hebrews 4:12.

15 Dec 2017 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hebrews 4:12.   For the word of God is quick (living), and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of (is able to judge) the thoughts and intents (intentions) of the heart.

Ten more days friends, ten more days to the Big Day of Christmas! Then the celebrations will erupt in volcanic fashion, as in all parts of the world we give thanks and praise to Almighty God for the miraculous birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, born two thousand years ago on a wintry night in Bethlehem of Judea, to grow to manhood, and eventually save mankind from sin and eternal damnation.

Exalt His holy name my people, for it’s the best gift mankind has ever received! And on this chilly Friday morning, the ordinary workingman is also out there singing his song of freedom. ‘TGIF! Thank God is Friday! The weekend here! At long last mih li’l time of freedom come! And as is Christmas time to boot, the partying going to be even greater than usual.

We going by everybody to eat up deh food and drink up deh liquor! When the lime buss so, people wouldn’t know what hit them! And please, doh tell me nothing about partying too much nuh, because if I could work for five days straight, then I could at least party hearty for two. So just leh we thank the Lord for Fridays and weekends yes!’

And believe me friends, that is exactly what’s happening in some parts of our world. (smile) But as Christians, as believers in Jesus Christ, that is just simply too much leeway for us, as it gives the enemy too many opportunities to get a foothold in our lives and thus mess with our relationship with Jesus.

And we certainly don’t want anything to mess with that, the most important and wonderful relationship ever! That’s why we have certain boundaries and limits that we try not to cross over, and why our Friday Chant is so different to that of the ordinary workingman. So let’s declare it now nuh, with suitable enthusiasm and sincerity.

‘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.’

Yes my people, it doesn’t prohibit us from having fun, but it also emphasizes the necessity to get ready for next week. And, as believers, we should always be ready: readiness should be a constant state of our lives, especially being ready for the Second Coming of Jesus, which can occur at any time, like the proverbial thief in the night.

Now it’s time to check out our Bit; such a mighty piece of scripture, than when you read it, it just takes your breath away. ‘For the word of God is quick (living), and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of (is able to judge) the thoughts and intents (intentions) of the heart.’

Ah mih bredden, that just shows that we cannot fool with the Word of God, for it’s all-seeing and knowing and more powerful than any man-made instrument! And Bruh Paul adds this addendum after our Bit which corroborates our statement. ‘Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in (hidden from) his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do (must give account).’(Heb.4:13)

Yeh friends, you can run, but you certainly can’t hide from your Creator! So those of us who are trying to get away from Him, please, let’s stop the foolishness nuh, for He knows your every move before you even think them. It’s so much easier, and wiser, to just give in to Him and say, ‘Lord, here I am, take me, I’m yours, now and forever more! Amen!’

Now here is some info from the scholars re our Bit and the succeeding verse. ‘4:12-13. For the word of God: The reason given for one’s careful scrutiny of his life involves the reality that God is intently scrutinizing it. His word is quick (living). This word is first in the Greek and is the emphasis. God’s word is not old or archaic; it is alive.

It is not inept or inactive; it is powerful (active). It reaches into the inner secrets of man’s mind to discern even his thoughts and intents. Likewise, God’s eyes sees man as though he were naked, unable to hide behind excuse or pretense.’ 

What more can I say eh friends? Not a whole lot. Our whole lives are open unto the One who created us from the dust of the earth, then breathed His breath of life into our frail and fragile bodies, so trying to hide anything from Him is a total waste of time.

What’s much better is going to Him with EVERYTHING! That’s what He wants and desires, so He can be an integral, or rather the most important part, closest friend, redeeming Saviour, merciful and LOVING God in our lives. That’s who He is friends! And the sooner we realize it and accept Him, the better off we shall be. Much LOVE!

…you can’t fight God’s word…because it’s All-Powerful…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 December 2017 Romans 13:12.

10 Dec 2017 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Romans 13:12.   The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.

And as the days of Advent, the preparatory period before Christ’s birth advances, and the Christmas season intensifies, LOVE and joy, peace and goodwill fill the air! Wow! And I naively wonder, why can’t it be like that all year round eh? But I guess that’s just asking too much of our sinful secular society. A few days, once a year is all they seem to be able to spare. But we’ll take it and just keep working to get more. 

And as we gather in the sanctuary this Sunday, to worship and fellowship and give thanks, let’s burst out with a most worthy song, one of the all-time favourites of the Christmas season, ‘O come all ye faithful.’  In true Christmas spirit, let’s raise the roof of our sanctuary and that of heaven too with harmonious sacrificial praise from our joyful lips and hearts. 

‘O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, Come ye, O come ye, to Bethlehem. Come and behold Him, born the King of angels; ( Chorus: O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.)  True God of true God, Light from Light Eternal, Lo, he shuns not the Virgin’s womb; Son of the Father, begotten, not created; (Chorus)  Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation; Sing, all ye citizens of heaven above! Glory to God, all glory in the highest; (Chorus)  

See how the shepherds, summoned to His cradle, Leaving their flocks, draw nigh to gaze; We too will thither bend our joyful footsteps; (Chorus)  Child, for us sinners poor and in the manger, We would embrace Thee, with love and awe; Who would not love Thee, loving us so dearly? (Chorus) Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, born this happy morning; Jesus, to Thee be glory given; Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing. O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.’ 

Ah friends, what a beautiful and grateful way to praise our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ for all that’s He’s done, is still doing and will do for us in the future. Praise His Holy Name. He is the reason why we have hope for the future, faith in salvation and joy in the promise of eternal life! All the more reason to LOVE and adore Him! Not to despise and cast aspersions and try to remove Him from our society. 

But I guess there will always be doubters and evildoers, so it’s up to us believers to raise His profile and make His LOVE Revolution a success. For we are His ears, arms, mouths, legs, and hands in the world, His ambassadors, His disciples, and as we go, so will His movement, His church. Some parts of it are thriving, who knows why, but most are finding it difficult to survive, and many are even closing. 

That’s not a very good vibe my people, and means that we’re not doing as good a job as we should. Christ is not being reflected in us as fully as He should be. That’s why we need to take the wise advice in our Bit, from Bruh Paul to the church at Rome. ‘The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.’ 

Yeh friends, it’s almost dawn, Jesus will soon be coming back, and right now our efforts are sadly lacking, so we need to improve dramatically. As Bruh Paul continues to the Roman church: ‘Let us walk honestly (properly), as in the day; not in rioting (revelry) and drunkenness, not in chambering (licentiousness) and wantonness (lewdness), not in strife and envying.’ (Rom.13:13) 

And it’s no secret friends that too many of us so-called Christians are deeply involved in too much of those worldly improprieties. We need to stop the hypocrisy; narrow the gulf between the Christian stuff we mouth, and the worldly trail we walk. As Bruh Paul warns: ‘But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof.’ (Rom.13:14) 

And the scholars offer this explanation re that verse. ‘13:14. Make not provision for the flesh: One should not seek opportunities to satisfy deep-seated desires of the sin nature, but should seek occasion to manifest works that are consistent with the new life in Christ.’  

And that’s all Christ is asking of us yes friends: if you claim to believe in Him, then please live the way He desires you to live. He doesn’t expect us to be perfect, because we don’t have the capacity for that, but He does expect us to be excellent and diligent in doing His work, like He was excellent and diligent in doing the Father’s work here on earth. When we don’t walk our talk, we just cause others to bad-mouth our Saviour and further demean His reputation, thus playing into the hands of the workers of iniquity. 

Therefore my faithful brethren, let’s do like Bruh Paul suggests to the Ephesians nuh. ‘And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove (expose) them). For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved (exposed) are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.’ (Eph.5:11-14) 

Oh friends, if we sincerely want to help the cause of Jesus, then we have to stop indulging in those sins that we know are ‘unfruitful works of darkness,’ sins of the unsaved, and instead expose them, bring them into the light, show them for the wrongdoings  that they are. It’s time friends, time for less talk and more action, time to throw off the cloak of darkness and put on the mantle of light that Jesus offers. That’s the ONLY way our world will ever improve. Much LOVE!

…Christians…oh Christians…where is your light that’s supposed to shine in the darkness…to light up the world…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 25 December 2016 Isaiah 9:6.

25 Dec 2016 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Isaiah 9:6.   For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.

A  MERRY  CHRISTMAS TO  ONE  AND  ALL!

Ah friends, at last it’s the big one – Christmas Day – when our wonderful Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ was born! Glory to God for that act of LOVING-kindness! 

Now it’s also Sunday, and we are in God’s spectacular sanctuary, or below a coconut tree, (smile) come to praise and worship Him, so let’s open with an appropriate song for the joyous occasion nuh, the old Christmas Carol, ‘Joy to the World,’ written by Isaac Watts a couple centuries ago. Let’s raise the roof of our sanctuary and that of heaven with a most passionate and heartfelt rendition, truly believing what we sing. 

In unison now: ‘Joy to the World, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King; Let every heart prepare Him room, And Heaven and nature sing, And Heaven and nature sing, And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing. Joy to the World, the Savior reigns! Let men their songs employ; While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy. 

No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make His blessings flow Far as the curse is found, Far as the curse is found, Far as, far as, the curse is found. He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove The glories of His righteousness, And wonders of His love, And wonders of His love, And wonders, wonders, of His love’ 

Ah mih people, that was beautiful – as it should be! There could be no doubt in the Lord’s mind now that we truly appreciate and are very grateful for the birth of His Son Jesus. And all around the world the same sentiments are being sent up, or have already been sent up to heaven! 

Wow! This is one of the Red Letter days of our earthly sojourn – the start of the greatest movement that ever hit the planet – Jesus’ LOVE Revolution!  

Now it’s scripture time, beginning with our Bit, God’s wonderful promise many centuries before to send us a Son, a redeemer. ‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.’ 

And our great God, also being ever-faithful, fulfilled this awesome promise some two thousand years ago. Praise His Holy Name my people! And listen to the rest of the promise: ‘Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgement and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.’ (Is.9:7) 

Oh my fellow believers what a magnificent Being, our Immanuel was promised to be! And was… and still is… and always will be! Now let’s turn to the actual birth of our Divine, Gift-child. We know that Joseph, Mary’s husband was of the lineage of Bruh David, so when the first emperor, Caesar Augustus declared that all his subjects were to be registered in their original birth places, Joseph and Mary had to journey to Bethlehem to do so, because that was his city. 

Now while they were there, Mary’s time drew nigh: ‘And she brought forth her first-born son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes (strips of cloth), and laid him in a manger (feed trough); because there was no room for them in the inn.’ (Luke 2:7) What a shame to think that this great king was born in a smelly, noisy animal barn eh, and slept in a feed trough! But the Lord, as always, had His reasons. His Son was to be born lowly, for the lowly ones were whom He was coming to save. 

Now hear the most wonderful part of the night of Christ’s birth. ‘And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in their field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon (stood before) them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore (greatly) afraid. And the angel said unto them; Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.’ (Luke 2:8-11) 

Can you imagine the topsy-turvy emotions the angel’s appearance and words must have caused the poor shepherds? Then the angel continued: ‘And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes (cloths), lying in a manger (feed trough). And suddenly was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace good will toward men.’ (Luke 2:12-14) 

Ah mih people, the sudden appearance of the heavenly host singing and praising God, laid even more drama on the shepherds. But shepherds are a hardy stock and the Good Book tells us: ‘And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. 

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered (marvelled) at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. (Not the first or the last time). And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.’ (Luke 2:15-20) 

Ah friends, can you imagine the magical mystery, the glorious effervescence in the air around lowly Bethlehem that momentous and most memorable night that our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ was born?  

Well we should be experiencing the same sort of overwhelming emotions today, as we celebrate Christ’s birth, for His selfless LOVE and sacrifice is the only thing that keeps, or is keeping us from the ravages of hell and Lucifer. So let’s give much thanks and praise today nuh my believing brethren, because He did it all for us. Much LOVE!

…births are joyful occasions…but none’s been as joyful as the night Christ was born…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 18 December 2016 Psalm 119:57.

18 Dec 2016 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Psalm  119:57.    Thou art my portion, O Lord: I have said that I would keep thy words. 

And then it was rain, mixing up with the snow, and with the lower night time temps, more likely than not turning to ice. Yes friends, that’s what we’re looking forward to this Sunday before Christmas 2016; an icy world. 

But yuh know what? That’s not going to stop us from going to the Lord’s sanctuary and celebrating His Sabbath Day. We going to get there, even if we have to walk and/or crawl. (smile) 

And when we get there we’re going to have glorious fellowship, with plenty thanks and praise and worship and preaching of the Word, so that we can leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed, strong and full of confidence to go out and live a good and true Christian life in the upcoming week. 

Now let’s begin the praise and worship with this beautiful hymn, ‘O Come All ye Faithful.’ Yes my brethren, please let our faithful voices raise our praise and glory to high heaven in perfect harmony!  

‘O Come All Ye Faithful Joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem. Come and behold Him, Born the King of Angels; O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. 

O Sing, choirs of angels, Sing in exultation, Sing all that hear in heaven God’s holy word. Give to our Father glory in the Highest; O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. 

All Hail! Lord, we greet Thee, Born this happy morning, O Jesus! For evermore be Thy name adored. Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing; O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.’ 

Ah mih people, this is the season of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ’s birth in the lowly stable in Bethlehem, and we ought to be celebrating it with lots of enthusiasm, passion and spiritual awareness. Remember, Christmas is the occasion that got the whole Christian thing; the ball of salvation, forgiveness of sins, reconciliation, justification and the promise of eternal life rolling. 

And if we don’t fully appreciate it, we won’t be able to fully appreciate what it caused either. So please tone down the worldly activities, and instead raise the godly ones, for without Jesus there would be no Christmas, no gifts, no set of food, in fact no celebration at all at this time of year. 

And now that I’ve said my piece, (smile) let’s turn to our Bit, a powerful acknowledgement of God’s place in the psalmist’s life. ‘Thou art my portion, O Lord: I have said that I would keep thy words.’ Yeh friends, the Lord ought to be our portion, and we ought to faithfully keep His words if we claim to be believers in His Son Jesus Christ. 

Now today I want to look at some other scriptures that uphold, which corroborate the words of our Bit. Let’s begin with something from Numbers. ‘And the Lord spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I am thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel. And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance (a possession), for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle of the congregation.’ (Num.18:20-21) 

So Aaron and his descendants, the priests, would own no land in Israel. The scholars explain it thus: ‘18:8-20. In recognition of their altar service, the priests were to receive parts of the sacrifices, firstfruits of the harvest, and firstborn animals (cf. Lev.6:14-7:36; 27:26-33). The priests’ families could also eat from these offerings as long as they were “clean.” Their inheritance would be God Himself, who provided for their needs through His people’s gifts. (v.20) 

‘18:21-24. Tithing was now provided for the tribe of Levi (Gen.14:20; 28:22: Lev.27:30-33). The tithe was a payment for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle of the congregation (v.21; cf.31). It also compensated for their lack of an inheritance in land. Later they were given 48 villages which were scattered throughout the land (34:16-35:8).’  

That means those in charge of running the tabernacle, had no other duties but looking after God’s house, and the Lord provided food for them from the gifts of the people. Now hear Bruh David from Psalm 16, where he seeks preservation and blessing. 

‘The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest (upholds) my lot. The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places: yea, I have a goodly heritage (inheritance). I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel; my reins (heart) also instruct me in the night seasons.’ (Ps.16:5-7) 

Meanwhile, Jeremiah in his Lamentations boldly declares: ‘The Lord is my portion, saith my soul: therefore will I hope in him. The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.’ (Lam.3:24-26) Wonderful advice my fellow believers! 

And we’ll end with some more wonderful advice, this time from the psalmist Asaph, from Psalm 73 – The mystery of prosperous wickedness. ‘My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength (rock) of my heart, and my portion for ever. For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee (that are unfaithful). But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works.’ (Ps.73:26-28)  

Oh friends, the Lord God Jehovah, Creator and Controller of the universe, ought to be a big part of our lives if we truly believe. Now let’s take some time today and consider how big a portion He is in our lives, and as always, ask Him to help us make it bigger. For that’s wisdom of enormous proportions! Much LOVE! 

…the bigger the portion of God in us…the better…

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 22 December 2015 2 Chronicles 26:5

22 Dec 2015 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2 Chronicles 26:5.   And he sought God in the days of Zechariah who had understanding in the visions (fear) of God: and as long as he sought the Lord, God made him to prosper.

Oh Friends, only three more days to go to that most auspicious birth; that of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Wow! And I do hope that we all are getting into the Christmas spirit, enjoying the real reason for the season – Jesus! 

And to help us do that this morning I figured we could sing the wonderful carol, The first Noel. So please sing along with me. 

‘The first Noel the angel did say Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay: In fields where they lay keeping their sheep On a cold winter’s night that was so deep. Noel Noel Noel Noel Born is the King of Israel. 

They looked up and saw a star Shining in the east beyond them far: And to the earth it gave great light And so it continued both day and night. Noel Noel Noel Noel Born is the King of Israel. 

And by the light of that same star Three wise men came from the country far; To seek for a King was their intent, And to follow the star wherever it went. Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of Israel. 

This star drew nigh to the north-west; O’er Bethlehem it took it’s rest, And there it did both stop and stay, Right over the place where Jesus lay. Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of Israel. 

Then entered in those wise men three, Fell reverently upon their knee, And offered there in his presence Their gold and myrrh and frankincense. Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the king of Israel. 

Then let us all with one accord Sing praises to our heavenly Lord, That hath made heaven and earth of nought, And with his blood mankind has bought. Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of Israel.’ 

Yes my fellow believers what wonderful sentiments concerning the birth of our Messiah. And I do hope that singing that lovely carol infused some Christmas spirit in us, took our minds off the busyness of the season, and helped us concentrate on Jesus. It also meant you had to put up with less of my badgering to get us to live right. (smile) 

Anyhow, today is Tuesday, that means we need to recite our Tuesday Mantra. So let’s get right into it with true conviction and a strong sense of purpose. 

‘I’m not what I do. I’m not what I have. I’m not what people say about me. I am the beloved of God, that’s who I am. No one can take that from me. I don’t have to worry. I don’t have to hurry. I can trust my friend Jesus and share His LOVE with the world.  Amen.’ 

Oh glory and honour to our wonderful God my people, for He has done so much for us! I don’t understand why we aren’t more thankful for His many blessings nuh, especially the birth of His Son Jesus, which we are now in the process of celebrating. 

That brings us to our Bit, based on one of the foundational bricks of our faith. ‘And he sought God in the days of Zechariah who had understanding in the visions (fear) of God: and as long as he sought the Lord, God made him to prosper.’ 

Yes my fellow believers, if we want to truly prosper, then we need to seek out the face of Almighty God and do the things that He desires of us. 

And by prosper, we don’t only mean the acquisition of monetary wealth or material possessions, but also things like joy and peace, the ability to handle the trials that come against us with confidence in His faithfulness and promises, and also the ability to not allow the enemy to disrupt our lives; in other words, the strength and wisdom found only in worshipping the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. 

Now yesterday we saw how some of the rulers of early Israel sought the Lord and prospered, today we’ll continue looking at the way one of those rulers, Uzziah, ended up, the one to whom our Bit refers. 

Now pay serious attention my brethren. The Good Book declares: ‘But when he (Uzziah) was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he transgressed against the Lord his God, and went into the temple of the Lord to burn incense upon the altar of incense.’ (2 Chr.26:16) 

Ah mih people, what happens to us when we get strong and prosperous eh? Like we just seem to lose our minds! Uzziah knew full well that only the priests were allowed to burn incense on the altar. But as so many of us do, he forgot who had brought him to dance, conveniently believing that he had gotten there by his own power. 

Now the priests withstood his efforts to burn the incense, and per the Good Book: ‘Then Uzziah was wroth, and had a censer in his hand to burn incense: and while he was wroth with the priests, the leprosy even rose in his forehead before the priests in the house of the Lord, from beside the incense altar.’ (2 Chr.26:19) 

Yes friends, that’s what happens when we disobey the Lord’s rules and procedures; we pay a hefty price. The priests threw him out of the sanctuary, and Uzziah himself hurried out because he realized that the Lord had stricken him in the worst way possible, for leprosy made him an outcast from society. 

And we’ll end with this telling verse from the Lord’s Word. ‘And Uzziah the king was a leper unto the day of his death, and dwelt in a several (isolated) house, being a leper; for he was cut off from the house of the Lord: and Jotham his son was over the king’s house, judging the people of the land.’ (2 Chr.26:21) 

There’s not much more for me to say Friends, except that we need to be very careful about how we live under the Lord’s umbrella and remember who causes us to have whatever we have and to do whatever we do. Now that is wisdom in the truest sense of the word! Much LOVE!

…Uncle Charles (Charles Stanley) says it best…obey God…and leave all the consequences to him…that’s the best prescription for living this earthly life…

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 25 December 2014 Luke 2:20

25 Dec 2014 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

 Luke 2:20. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

MERRY  CHRISTMAS !

Oh Friends, that momentous day we’ve all been waiting for with bated breath is here at last!

It’s Christmas Day! Glory Hallelujah! Much thanks and praise to Almighty God, our Creator and heavenly Father, for giving us such a perfect gift!

In fact, it’s the only perfect gift the world has ever known or seen; Jesus Christ, born so that no one would die…! Then Jesus Christ died, so that all should live…!

What a dramatic tale, one that only our wise and powerful God could weave! Oh my people, fellow believers, as well as unbelievers, let’s acknowledge our debt to Jehovah God for this wonderful day with a prayer.

Please pray with me. ‘Heavenly Father, on this special day of Christmas 2014, we raise our voices in thanks and praise, the way You desire. We LOVE You, and appreciate all that You have done, are doing, and will do for us.

Help us to keep on LOVING You and Your wonderful Son Jesus, born this day many years ago. Help us also to be obedient to Your call and our calling. We bless You this special day and laud and magnify Your Holy Name. Amen… And P.S. Thanks again so much for giving us Jesus. We’ll LOVE Him till forever!’

Yes Friends, today is a mighty special day of gift giving, with Jesus being the best gift ever!

Now here’s this poem from the One Year Book of Bible Promises, titled ‘It’s Christmas’ that I just could not pass up.

‘It’s Christmas! Sing! Rejoice! Celebrate! Let God create in you Colourful explosions Of joy and excitement. Smile away fears, push away tears. Out with pretense, in with praise. It’s Christmas! Open your heart to light To trust, to LOVE, to hope. Awaken slumbering memories Stir up stupendous dreams Anticipate surprises Open your arms wide.

It’s Christmas! Time for candles and cards For carols and cookies For brightly lit trees With the fragrance of pine. Time to hug and hold To think and thank Time to greet the world With the Good News.

It’s Christmas! Thank God for life Thank Him for the manger For the splintered cross For the empty tomb Thank Him for His only Son The Saviour of the world. Shout! Laugh! Share! Care! And say to God On Christmas morning: “I entrust myself anew To You.”

Wow my people! Those are indeed the many things we can do, and the vast array of positive emotions we can share this Christmas day!

Please, I implore us to put as many of them as possible into action today, so that the Joy, the Peace and the LOVE that was meant for this day, can truly be spread across the entire globe and thus make a positive difference in all our lives.

Now let’s hear the story of Jesus’ birth as told by the Good Book. ‘And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed (registered). (And this taxing (registration, census) was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

And all went to be taxed (registered), everyone into his own city (original birthplace). And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house (family) and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused (betrothed) wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that while they were there, the days were accomplished (completed) that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her first born son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger (feed trough); because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon (stood before) them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore (greatly) afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes (cloths), lying in a manger (feed trough).

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered (marvelled) at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.’ (Luke 2:1-20)

What a marvellous story my brethren! Only our wonderful God could have arranged it thus. Please note that it was played out on a low key. The message wasn’t taken to the rich and powerful, but to the poor and lowly shepherds, who were then encouraged to share it to the rest of the world.

The Lord’s plans called for a simple, basic birth in poor surroundings, but the message covering it was enormous, everlasting: ‘For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.’

What a monumental occasion my people, one that changed the course of the entire world! And that’s what we’re celebrating today.

So please let’s do all the things we’ve been encouraged to do; laugh, sing, shout, share, rejoice and give thanks, glorifying and praising God for all the good things He’s done for us, like the shepherds did two thousand years ago when they heard the good news of Jesus’ birth!

And all God’s children gave a loud and lusty shout of “Praise God in the Highest! For He is deserving of such praise! Amen!’

Now let’s observe a truly blessed Christmas day my people. Much LOVE!

…no other birth has ever caused such repercussions in all of man’s history…that’s why the birth of Jesus is indeed the GREATEST…

 

 

 

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