Today’s Scrip-Bit   27 April 2023 Philippians 2:9.

27 Apr 2023 Leave a comment

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

Philippians 2:9.       Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

And now it’s Thursday, the penultimate day of our workweek, and we’re looking forward ever so much to tomorrow, that’s Friday, because for two days, we cease the tiring and unpleasant act of travelling back and forth to a job that many of us despise and dislike, and only perform it, or rather endure it because of the insufficient financial rewards we receive and so badly need if we’re to survive in this rat race we call our civilization! And if that isn’t a Bruh Paulian sentence, then I don’t know what is. (smile) 

Ah friends, that statement might seem somewhat degrading and unfair, but it’s the indisputable truth. Many more people dislike their jobs than like them, and many would not go to them if they could find another way to make a living. And can you imagine the drudgery and resentment that so many of us put up with for two or three decades in a job that we dislike and thus don’t do to the best of our ability. I guess that’s because of the way the formulators of commerce and industry have set up our economic system without much thought to the welfare and benefit of the workers, but more so to the accumulation of profit for themselves. 

But as I recently said, our current system is so backward and not truly engineered for making the best use of our talents and efforts, as well as being psychologically and emotionally very draining. You’d think that a society that’s been to the moon and various planets around our solar system, could come up with a better system of labour than one that has hordes of people languishing in vehicles morning and evening, not going anywhere fast. It’s no wonder they end up drained and stressed out, and that the new age disease of stress is the number one killer in our society. 

Our forefathers didn’t even know the meaning of the word, but today it’s on everyone’s tongue, because we’re always so busy, but in reality going nowhere. We don’t have time to call or visit each other these days, because we’re so busy. But ask us what we’re busy doing, most of us can’t tell. Nevertheless, it’s the number one excuse nowadays for lack of family participation, camaraderie and true friendship. Imagine the sad situation where we have the best means of communication ever, almost instant messaging, but yet we’re possibly the most alone and loneliest generation the world has ever seen. 

And the great amount of oppression, suppression, violence, lawlessness, greed, deceit and fraudulent activities that now permeate our world don’t lend themselves to trust and friendship. The recent pandemic and the current upheaval in our political systems, where everyone is fighting for power by any means necessary, doesn’t help the situation either. So, what’s the answer to it all eh? And there can only be one answer; that’s to make Jesus our true Lord and Saviour, our King and Ruler! 

Why, you further ask? Because He’s the ONLY ONE who can handle the crazy, negative situation that exists in our world. Check it out nuh: He’s the Prince of Peace, the Wonderful Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father! (Is. 9:6) Now who else has all those marvellous attributes and talents eh? Nobody! That’s what makes Him fit to rule the world! And when you add some of His other names like the Lion of Judah, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the Rose of Sharon, the Calmer of Storms, the Best Guide and Pilot ever, on land, sea or air,  etc. etc. there’s absolutely no one else more qualified to run our lives and our universe. 

Then, when you get down to brass tacks and recognize the truth of the Bible, God’s inspired Word, where it says that because Christ was ‘found in fashion (appearance ) as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those things in heaven, and those things in earth, and those things under the earth; and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the Gory of God the Father.’ (Phil. 2:8-11) 

Now friends, with all of that going for Jesus, who else is better qualified to run our world and our lives eh? Again I say: NOBODY! But yuh think people are running to Him in droves despite the adversity and tribulation we’re experiencing. No! A lot of us are in fact running away from Him! Why is that eh? One big reason is because the body He formed, called His church, is not doing enough to bring people to Him, but is sadly doing a lot to drive them away, with all the infighting, disunity and scandal that’s currently plaguing it. 

And we, as induvial believers aren’t doing such a hot job either, because we’re not living the way Jesus commanded us to live, like brothers and sisters, LOVING each other, treating each other with kindness and compassion. That’s one of the reasons there’s so much sickness, poverty and economic stagnation and depression in our world. The church and its members are not doing as much as it ought to stem the woes and the travesty of our society. Remember Jesus said that He came to save those who were lost, the sick and the suffering, the underprivileged and the prisoners, the widows and orphans. 

And if He is to be our shining example, our bright LIGHT, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God: (Heb. 12:2) then it’s obvious that we must make those things that He came and died for our priorities as well. And He’s such a wonderful Saviour that, knowing of our frailty, fragility, and finite shortcomings, He’s generously bestowed on us, all His followers, what we call our Thursday Blessings, to help us do His earthly work. Remember, He never asks us to do something without giving us the power and the tools to do it.

 So, this bright and sunshiny Thursday morning in late April, let’s declare (ah Lord eh!!!) our Thursday Blessings, so that we can activate them in our lives. As one strong voice: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! 

I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’ 

Now, let’s take those blessings and go out and share them, use them just as generously in the care and compassion of others, as Jesus used them with us! Much LOVE!

…there’s no getting away from it…ONLY JESUS…is truly qualified to rule the world… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   20 April 2023 Ephesians 4:27.

20 Apr 2023 Leave a comment

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

Ephesians 4:27. Neither give place (an opportunity) to the devil.

Well, it seems that the sun has the upper hand in the weather contest this Thursday morning in early spring. But fear not, the dark clouds are hovering around, ready to slip in, once the sun makes a wrong step. And that is exactly how the devil does with us believers. He’s always there hovering and loitering, waiting for us to make a misstep, then jump right into the opening in our souls and spirits. And that’s why there are so many warnings in the scriptures about being careful of the wiles and evil schemes of Beelzebub. 

Jesus even warned us about falsehood and evil in this world. He said in no uncertain terms: ‘The thief cometh not but for (except) to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.’ (John 10:10-11) And that’s exactly what He did on the cross at Calvary; gave His life for us, the sheep of His pasture. But the devil has no such good intentions towards us. He just wants to wreak havoc amongst us and invade our souls and do the same there, his basic intention being to turn us away from believing in and truly living for Christ. 

And that’s why we have to pay serious attention to this scripture from Peter. He writes: ‘Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he cares for you. Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in (experienced by) your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish (confirm), strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.’ (1 Pet. 5:6-11) 

There you have it in black and white friends: the devil is always prowling around to see whom he can snare in his evil trap. And though he pretends to be a lion, he’s a toothless one, with only a frightening roar. That’s because Jesus knocked out all of his teeth when He died and rose from the dead. That was Jesus’ knockout punch to the enemy, thus making him a toothless and powerless foe. Remember, he has no power over us, unless we give it to him. As they say, his bark is worse than his bite, since he has no teeth to bite. (smile) The problem though is that we continually give the devil room to manoeuvre in our lives because we don’t pay sufficient attention to the things we do and say. 

And that’s James’ reason for warning us, when he says: ‘Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye doubleminded….Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.’ (James 4:7-8, 10) Yes friends, we must resist the devil. That’s the only way we can get rid of him. And one way of doing that is by turning seriously and sincerely to God. Humbling ourselves before Him, cleansing our hands and purifying our hearts through sincere communication and doing of His holy will. 

The devil won’t just go away and leave you alone…at least not for long. As Luke reminds us in the temptation of Jesus. ‘And when the devil had ended all the temptation (testing), he departed from him for a season (until an appropriate time).’ (Luke 4:13) That shows when you resist the devil, he goes away, but only until he sees another opportune time to confound you. But please note too how Jesus resisted the devil during His period of testing; by quoting scripture to him. ‘It is written…that man should not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.’ (Luke 4:4) ‘It is written…Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.’ (Luke 4:8) ‘It is written…Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.’ (Luke 4:12) 

Yes my fellow believers, when the devil gets a good dose of scriptures in his evil machinations, he goes away, but only for a time. That’s why we need to read, meditate and remember the scriptures so we can throw it back in his face when he comes a calling. Now, please note that when Jesus shot the scriptures at the devil, he backed off. So don’t think for one moment that Satan doesn’t know the scriptures. He possibly knows them better than us, for remember once upon a time, he was the Archangel Lucifer, the Bright Morning Star, who’s foolish pride caused him to rebel against God and get kicked out of heaven down to the fiery depths of Hades. 

And we can’t quote scriptures on resisting the devil and not quote these from Bruh Paul to the Ephesians. (smile) He writes: ‘That ye put off concerning the former conversation (conduct) the old man, which is corrupt according to deceitful lust; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place (an opportunity) to the devil. 

Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the holy spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.’ (Eph. 4:22-32) 

Oh my fellow saints that’s just the way we ought to live as true believers! And I know that it’s not always easy to live the godly, righteous life, but it’s the best way to fight off the enemy and his evil wiles and schemes. Don’t give him even a toe hold in our lives by doing the things Bruh Paul warns of. And if we live that way, we won’t have to fight off the devil as often. Now, I hope that give us some reassurance in standing up mano a mano to the enemy, but our God is so wonderful that He’s bestowed blessings on us, that we call Thursday Blessings, so that we can do His earthly work and live the way He desires. Let’s declare (steups!!!) them out loud now so we can activate them. 

Altogether: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’ 

And having activated those blessings, it’s now our bounden duty to go out and use them to help others come to know and LOVE Jesus like we do! Much LOVE!

…living the way Jesus desires…reduces the attacks of the enemy…  

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   29 March 2023 Psalm 105:4.

29 Mar 2023 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 105:4. Seek the Lord, and his strength: seek his face evermore.

So another day has opened bright and sunshiny in the spring vein, with temps above the freezing mark, though there’s a bit of an edge to the March winds on this last Wednesday in the month. But we’ll take it as we catch our second wind for this work week, and say the Lord be praised for the upcoming spring and Easter seasons, where we see so much renewal, rebirth and resurrection in our lives, both physically and spiritually. 

That’s the joy that this time of year provides; the supposed dead flora, that’s really only been hibernating during the winter months, bursts out in beautiful, new, green life, while our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, having been crucified on Good Friday, rises triumphantly on Easter Sunday to prove that He’s conquered hell, death and the grave. Glory be my fellow believers! We couldn’t ask for a better situation and time than that to come out of the winter blahs. (smile) 

That’s why these marvellous words of Psalm 105 should always be in our memories and quick to reach the tips of our tongues. ‘O Give thanks unto the Lord; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people. Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works. glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord. Seek the Lord, and his strength: seek his face evermore. Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgements of his mouth. O ye seed of Abraham his servant, ye children of Jacob his chosen. he is the Lord our God: his judgements are in all the earth.’ (Ps. 105:1-7) 

Yes friends, the Lord God Jehovah is indeed our God and is indeed worthy of our praise and honour! There’s no doubt about that, after all the things He’s done for mankind! That’s why we ought to give Him much thanks and call on Him all the time, while spreading the good news of His wonderful works, in particular the gospel of Jesus all around the world. And singing psalms and other holy songs to Him is a no brainer, because He rejoices in our worship and praise. That’s one of the reasons why he created us in the first place, so we could have a good relationship and we could praise and worship Him. 

But unfortunately, sin raised its ugly head and caused a severing of that relationship until Jesus came and died in our place so that it could be restored. And that was the work of God; His desire to be reconciled to us. We had nothing to do with it. So that’s another reason why we should be ever so thankful to the Lord, worship Him with an undying LOVE, and let others know of His wonderful deeds towards the underserving children of men. And I LOVE this verse that says: ‘Seek the Lord, and his strength: seek his face evermore.’ (Ps. 105:4) 

Sadly however, that’s not something a lot of us are currently doing. Many people instead are turning away from God, and those of us who remain and claim to believe are only paying lip service, not truly searching and seeking for God, otherwise our lives would not be as miserable and disastrous as so many of them are. Please note these words that the Lord, through the prophet Jeremiah, conveyed to the Israelites during their captivity in Babylon. 

‘For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil (calamity), to give you and expected end (a future and a hope). Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me. and I will hearken unto (listen to) you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.’ (Jer. 29:11-13) 

Yuh see that mih people! Even though the Lord allowed them to be carried into captivity for their disobedience, He still had their welfare at heart, and encouraged them to seek Him with all their hearts, that’s sincerely. And it’s the same thing He’s saying to us today. Call on me, seek me sincerely, and I will answer you. Many of us though are not calling on the Lord God Jehovah, and for those of us who are, our prayers are not sincere, they don’t come from the bottom of our hearts, but are mostly lip service. As James says: ‘Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.’ (James 4:3) 

But please, let’s remember these words of Jesus that sets everything in the right perspective. ‘But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.’ (Matt. 6:33) That my fellow saints is the definitive word of the gospel: seek God and His righteousness above all else! And if you’re not doing that, your life will be more miserable and disastrous than it ought to be. That’s because when you seek God sincerely, then He overwhelms you with blessings of all different varieties; physical, emotional and spiritual. 

As they say, then you don’t have to chase the blessings, they chase you. Wow! What can be better than that eh, blessings running you down? Nothing! But we have to do like Jesus said, seek the Lord first, and then everything will fall in to place. Let’s not forget what Jesus also said was the first and great commandment: ‘Thou shalt LOVE the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt LOVE thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.’ (Matt. 22:37-40) 

Yes mih bredrin, it’s all based on the power of LOVE; of sincere LOVE! That’s why the psalmist could confidently say in Psalm 91: ‘Because he hath set his LOVE upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honour him. With long life (length of days) will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.’ (Ps. 91:14-16) 

Oh friends, that’s how the Lord treats us when we sincerely seek Him and do our best to live according to His holy will. And for those of us who are currently trying to do just that, let’s go home declaring (yesss!!!) our Wednesday Wail, letting the whole world know of our wonderful position in Christ Jesus. 

Altogether now: ‘Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: I’m so glad to be alive on this Wednesday! Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: Thank God the breath of life is still flowing through me on this Wednesday! I am halfway home. My hands are fixed securely on the plough, and I’m not turning back. I’m not looking back at the past, not focusing on what has gone before. But my eyes are fixed straight ahead; straight ahead to a glorious future with Jesus. Glory Hallelujah!’ 

And having said all of that, it now behooves us to keep on seeking His heavenly kingdom and doing the things that warms the cockles of His heart! Much LOVE!

…now there are these three…hope, faith and LOVE…but the greatest of them is LOVE… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   20 March 2023 Psalm 23:1.

20 Mar 2023 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 23:1. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Oh friends, on this sunny but chilly Monday morning, we want to open with some monumental news! Yes, it is a momentous occasion! One where we hear and understand that The Bible is God’s Word to us. That it is still fresh through all the ages, and if we read it, we will find God’s exceptional wisdom on its pages! Wow! What magnificent news that is my people! Because it means that all of us who are sincerely seeking wisdom just have to read the Bible, God’s Word to find it. 

Yes friends, wisdom is right at our finger tips, no further than the Bible that sits looking pretty on your desk or table, but is truly gathering dust, since you don’t read it. And by the way, here’s this other piece of monumental information: One truth from the Bible is worth more than all the wisdom of man! That’s worth another Wow! Yes mih bredrin! Imagine that nuh. One li’l truth from God’s Word is worth more than all of man’s wisdom! Meaning to say that man’s wisdom is not worth very much, especially when compared to God’s.

 So why then do we all insist on learning and spouting the wisdom of man and not God’s eh? If man’s wisdom is worth so little, we should all be hungry and thirsting for the wisdom found in God’s Word. But to get that means reading God’s Word, the Bible, which so many of us claim to be too busy to do. That’s why so many of us are unwise in an unwise world, because the world doesn’t value God’s Word and His immortal and infinite wisdom. 

And it’s the basic answer to all of the earth’s problems. If you ignore the Word of the Creator of the universe and all therein, and the amazing truths it contains, how can you ever live a successful life, either individually or communally? No way Jose! The fly in the ointment here is that in addition to His Word, God also gave us free will to do as we please, sincerely hoping though that we’d be wise enough to read His Word and then follow His plan for our lives. But unfortunately, too many of us are trying to do it our own way without God’s help, and that is a sure and perfect recipe for disaster. 

Jesus Christ. God’s Son, whom He sent to earth to help us see the light said it quite simply and clearly. ‘But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.’ (Matt. 6:33) Now that’s one of the essential truths of God’s Word. If we seek His kingdom and His righteousness before anything else, then we will have all our needs fulfilled. How did Bruh David put it in that marvellous psalm that we all know and revere with our mouths but not our hearts: ‘The Lord is my shepherd: I shall not want.’ (Ps. 23:1) 

And what does a shepherd do for his sheep eh? ‘A shepherd is committed to a flock and the one responsible for guiding the sheep, protecting them, and attending to their needs. So, to serve as a shepherd means to demonstrate commitment to the well-being of other people. It involves watching out for them, helping them, and teaching them.’ Therefore, that means if the Lord God Almighty is our shepherd, then He is thoroughly committed to our well-being. And His Son Jesus Christ said it in so many words. ‘I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.’ (John 10:11) 

And that’s exactly what He did; gave His sinless life on the cross of Calvary so that we, His sheep could be saved, could have victory, salvation and eternal life. So why is it so difficult to follow him eh? So hard to read God’s Word, believe it and then live it, despite all the marvellous examples of great men of God laid out in that Good Library, we call the Bible? I truly don’t know. Instead, we’re all going crazy for the things of the world and its evil doings, which don’t truly satisfy, and therefore we have to continually run them down, regardless of how much we have already accumulated. 

But friends, here is another word of wisdom for us. When you live for Christ, you don’t have to run down anything because God’s favour, grace and blessings run you down! But I guess we all have to find out the uselessness in running down the things of the world for ourselves before we believe. Meanwhile, here are the words of Bruh David, who as we all know personally lived them, and consequently experienced the joy of God’s favour. Hopefully, hearing them again will light a spark in our own souls and lives and wake us up to the reality that God, through Jesus Christ is the ONLY WAY to go. 

Please read with me: ‘The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me: thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil: my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.’ (Ps. 23: 1-6) 

Oh friends, if we look at all the things Bruh David wrote there, we will see that he experienced it all. His life wasn’t easy, but God never promised us an easy life. He promised us a full, abundant and interesting one. And that’s a big part of our problem as believers. We think that because we’re following Jesus, life should be easy. But that’s the furthest thing from the truth, because Jesus said it quite clearly. ‘If any man will come after (follow) me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me.’ (Luke 9:23) That doesn’t mean easy living my brethren, but rather a sacrificial sense of purpose, because Christianity was not made for cowards. 

So now that we’ve acquired some godly wisdom, (smile) let’s go to God, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn and place all our problems before Him, as He’s said in His Word that we ought to do. Altogether now: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. We desperately need Your divine help, for You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems. 

Heavenly Father, we admit that we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but we know that You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek Your face. That’s why we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading with You to give us wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems. 

And Father, we pray that you will ease the pain of the many who are suffering from negative situations. Please show them Your awesome grace and mercy, and keep Your promise that You’ll hear our prayer, forgive us, and heal our land if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’ 

And having said all of that, it now behooves us to turn our words into sincere action, so that the Lord can do His part. Much LOVE!

…if you’re seeking wisdom…why go anywhere else than to the fountainhead…Almighty God…

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   4 March 2023 Luke 18:8b.

04 Mar 2023 Leave a comment

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

Luke 18:8b.       Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?

And after the storm comes the calm, with the sunshine shining brilliantly on the snow-covered land, making it truly a winter wonderland! Yes friends, for easy terminology, (smile) we got a good shower of snow yesterday evening, as promised by the weather forecasters. You couldn’t even look through the windows properly because they were all covered with what looked like snowy icicles. (smile) And I can’t get over how beautiful the snow looks when it’s clean and undefiled by man. 

By the way, I know my mas costume for next year carnival already, something based on ‘Ole Man Winter.’ Oh, there’s a tree in my backyard, whose leafless limbs are all covered with snow, like all the other leafless trees, but this one looks just like a carnival costume, with a sort of peacock feather-like tail. So, look for me next year on the big stage in the Big Yard in mih all white costume with plenty sequins and whatever else will provide some radiance to it. (smile) 

But now, as I hear the snow shovels and snow blowers working outside to clean up the snowy mess, I’m losing that pretty snow fantasy, and getting to the reality that it’s dangerous and oh so inconvenient. I don’t care how long you live with it, and how beautiful it might look, I don’t know if you ever get accustomed to cleaning it up and trudging through it. Unfortunately though, it’s all a part of living in the northern climes, and sometimes it does take a lot of faith to conquer it. 

And speaking of faith, I didn’t get any quotes from our friend Anselm this week either, so I guess we’ll just continue with the faith talks of Jesus that we never got finished with yesterday. We left off yesterday where Jesus was on His way to the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader to heal his young daughter, but He got way laid by the woman suffering from the affliction of a blood flow for a long time, who showed her large faith by simply believing that if she could only touch the garments of Jesus she’d be healed. And thus, she pressed through the crowd that surrounded Him, touched His clothes and was immediately healed. 

Now, tell me truthfully, how many of us nowadays would have that kind of faith eh my people? Definitely not too many, not with the way things are currently going. No wonder in the gospel of Luke we find these words. ‘And he (Jesus) spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint (lose heart). (Luke 18:1) And that parable deals with the wronged widow and the unjust judge, who doesn’t revere God, or is really interested in meting out justice, but only deals with her because she is persistent and he is tired of her complaints. 

Jesus states: ‘Hear what the unjust judge saith. And shall not God avenge (vindicate) his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? I tell you that he will avenge (vindicate) them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?’ (Luke 18:6-8) Now that’s a very good question my brethren? 

And the scholars explain it thus: ‘If an unjust judge acts in this way, how much more hope may God’s children place in God? However, the issue is not God’s faithfulness. It is whether believers will persist in supplication (vs. 7), or whether their patience and perseverance will give out by the time Christ finally returns (vs. 8, see also vs. 1)’  

Yes friends, the problem here is not God’s faithfulness, but man’s! Will we keep doing like Jesus asks in vs.1: ‘pray and not faint or lose heart,’ or we will be exhausted from all the crying and complaining we’ve done to God and stop persevering by the time He returns? We need to keep on keeping on my faithful brethren, regardless of what we undergo, or how long it takes for Jesus to come back! That’s the foundation, the backbone of our faith: NEVER GIVE UP! 

That brings us back to the story of Jairus and Jesus. Looks like we’ll never finish it. (smile) But anyway, just as Jesus was finishing with the woman who had the issue of blood, he heard one of Jairus’ servants tell him that his daughter was dead, so he should now stop bothering Jesus. However, ‘As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue (Jairus), Be not afraid, only believe.’ (Mark. 5:36) What tough words, but very necessary sentiments my people! Belief! That’s where it all begins! You can’t have faith in anything until you believe in something! That’s the long and short of the story! 

Then Jesus continued to Jairus’ house with only His three henchmen, Peter, James and John. But when he came to the house there was a crowd inside weeping and wailing. Jesus said to them: ‘Why make ye this ado (commotion), and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him (Peter, James and John), and entereth in where the damsel was lying. 

And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is to being interpreted (translated), Damsel, I say unto thee, arise. And straightway the damsel arose and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with a great astonishment. And he charged (commanded) them straitly (strictly) that no man should know it; and commanded that something should be given her to eat.’ (Mark 5:39-43) 

And I like how the scholars explain it all. ‘The crowd would eventually know of course, that the girl had been raised from the dead. Jesus wants the fact to be concealed for the time being, giving Him time to depart and avoid ostentatious acclaim. Also, the parents will still be able to keep the details of the resurrection secret from the scornful unbelievers outside the door. Jesus’ custom all along was to make Himself known to earnest seekers, but to conceal His true identity from skeptics.’ 

That brings up another very important question my brethren: which group are we in, the earnest seekers, or the unbelieving skeptics? And according to our answer, so will the Holy Spirit of Jesus deal with us. It’s ever so necessary to believe, to have faith in Jesus, if we want to enjoy the benefits that accrue from Him. Note Jesus’ admonition to the disciples who could not heal a demon possessed boy. ‘Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, if ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove (move); and nothing shall be impossible to you.’ (Matt. 17:20) 

Ah my fellow saints, a whole lot of faith is not needed to follow Jesus, but you do need some faith, be it as small as a grain of mustard seed. Much LOVE!

…truly believe…and faith will come… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   3 March 2023 Mark 5:34.

03 Mar 2023 Leave a comment

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

Mark 5:34.       And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague (affliction).

At long last it’s Friday, the end of our work week, and a lot of voices have this morning chorused: ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday!’ But I wonder if many of them in the Greater Toronto Area will be mouthing that platitude this evening on their commute home? Why you ask? Because another big snow storm is scheduled to begin around the time of the drive home. Can you imagine the bell ringing for the end of the day’s work, and all those workers hustling to exit their daytime slave quarters for a two day break, only to be met by a tantrum of snow blowing dangerously in a blustering wind? 

Yes, it will produce chaos. But let’s hope we use common sense and caution, with prayer and thanksgiving as we fight our way home this Friday evening. Yes, Lord, I pray that those of us caught in the storm this evening will raise the level of their faith, or simply show their faith, and turn to You and sincerely ask You to safely guide them home, because You are ONLY ONE with the awesome wisdom, knowledge and power to do it. This I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen! 

Ah friends, the evening hours will prove a testing ground for both the fate and faith of many, because ploughing through the deep, heavy snow, ofttimes with poor visibility, always requires a new leap of faith, regardless of how strong our faith already is. I can personally attest to that since I got caught in a terrible one last year. I got stuck in the snow three times on my way home; once on the highway; that took me about fifteen minutes to extricate myself from the snowbank. Then about a half mile from home; that one needed a tow truck to get me out, and the final one right in my own driveway. Hn, hn, hn! I can laugh now, but that Monday morning was indeed a day from hell. (smile) 

And since we’re talking about faith and Jesus today, there’s no better time than right now to discuss His awesome showing of faith in that terrible storm that almost destroyed their boat when crossing the sea of Galilee. While Jesus and His disciples were on the sea, the gospel of Mark tells us: ‘And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full (already filling). And he (Jesus) was in the hinder part (the stern) of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? 

And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith. And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, what manner of man is this (who can this be), that even the wind and the sea obey him?’ (Mark 4:37-41) Yes my faithful brethren, the wind and the sea obeyed Jesus because He was the One who created them! 

And we always tend to denigrate the disciples’ level of faith, thinking that because they had seen Jesus perform all sorts of miracles, they ought to have been less fearful. But friends, let’s remember that they were mostly young men, and most of them, most likely couldn’t swim. And I’m chuckling here now, because I also know about the perilous trials of storms on the water. Brother! Have I ever lived a full, interesting, sometimes dangerous, but certainly blessed life! 

I experienced  that storm out on Lake Ontario many years ago in a small boat, when I wasn’t as God- fearing as I am now, with some drunken friends, who were even less God-fearing than me, but were so scared, that they ended up praying too. But, for whatever reason, the Lord pulled us through. And believe me, He most certainly DID! Nothing, or no One else could have pulled us through that monumental storm. I guess He knew that if He allowed us to go under, I wouldn’t be around to fulfill His plan of writing the Bit. (smile) 

What’s amusing though is that I used to see Lake Ontario kicking up on the shore and figured it was just a joke lake, nothing like the ocean that I was accustomed to, and wondered how so many ships could be sunk in those waters. But that night I found out how it could happen. And strangely enough, one of my most significant takes from that experience is actually experiencing the ‘shivering of the timbers.’ I had often read those words in stories of the sea, but until that fateful night, never really knew what it meant. 

Take it from me, please hope to never experience it in real life, for when the little boat climbed the fifteen or twenty foot waves on the lake, then plunged down into the trough on the other side, the timbers of the boat did shiver like a fevered man! And so did we inside it! Now, because I know what it’s like to be caught on the water in a terrible storm, I don’t denigrate the disciples’ fate as much as some people do. 

That brings us to the story of Jairus, the synagogue leader who came to Jesus to save his dying daughter. While going with him to his home, this woman who had had an issue of blood (a blood flow) for 12 years but could find no relief through physicians or other treatments, heard that Jesus was passing through and decided to go and see Him, ‘For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.’ (Mark. 5:28) So she pushed through the crowd and touched the hem of His shawl. ‘And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of the plague (affliction). 

And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue (power) had gone out of him, turned him about in the press (crowd), and said, Who touched my clothes? And the disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing. But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague (affliction).’ (Mark 5:29-34) 

Oh my fellow saints, that’s the kind of faith we need to have in these turbulent and disastrous times! Faith that causes us to push through whatever comes against us to reach to Jesus! But it all begins with prayer. So, as one strong and sincere voice, let’s offer up our Friday Chant, in faithful communication with heaven. ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough… what with all the confusion and anxiety caused by the pandemic and our many other serious problems. We can’t fix them on our own Lord, so we desperately need your help. 

Oh heavenly Father, with your omnipotent help, and our trusting faith, we know that we can stand strong and steadfast and defeat the simmering unrest in our land. So Lord, we sincerely ask you today to give those involved in the forefront of this serious and unexpected storm, the wise guidance to handle the situation properly, without further serious setbacks. And please help those of us who must go out to work amidst all the confusion, to be responsible and to stay safe. 

And Lord, we fervently pray that You’ll use this situation to return backsliders to your fold, show them the error of their ways. And please introduce a new flock of believers, who will embrace your LOVE and compassion by the example, we, your faithful believers set. Yes Lord, please use this pandemic, the bubbling discontent and dissatisfaction in our land, as a means of restoring faith in You, so that our sinful world can wake up and smell the coffee, wake up and smell it sweet and strong! We pray this in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!’

 Now, it’s time to action our faith; let it come to the forefront and do the things we’ve promised. Much LOVE!

…one can only have faith…when one first believes…  

P.S. Please forgive the Bit for being somewhat late and long. But I believe it certainly makes up for those shortcomings. (smile) Much LOVE!

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   9 February 2023 Ephesians 2:8-9.

09 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

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

Ephesians 2:8-9.       For by grace are ye (you have been) saved through faith; and not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

It’s raining, it’s raining! Yes friends, it is raining in my neighbourhood, definitely no sunshine to glory in this Thursday morning. But that’s okay, because it means the temperature is above freezing and we’re washing away a lot of the remaining snow on the banks of the roads and the rooftops, ostensibly making space for some more of that white stuff to fall later in the season. (smile) Well, we cannot rule out that possibility because this is the winter season, and that usually equates to snow. 

But thankfully, whatever happens, however the rest of the season turns out, the important thing is that we have Jesus, and that means we’re in good hands, we don’t need anything or anyone else, for He is indeed sufficient for all of our needs, in fact, He is more than enough! And all of God’s children gave a loud and grateful shout of ‘Praise the Lord! Bless His Holy Name, and His greatest gift to His children, His awesome Son, Jesus Christ! Amen!’ 

And that’s the indisputable truth my fellow believers: Jesus is indeed the greatest gift ever given to mankind! He is the One who died so that we could live, that we could be saved from our abominable sinfulness. He took our sins upon Him and gave us His righteousness. How does the Good Library put it? In Bruh Paul’s words to the Corinthians: ‘For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Christ.’ (2 Cor. 5:21) 

Yes, Jesus was sinless while here on earth, and that’s the ONLY reason He was able to pay our sin debts. It needed an unblemished lamb, a sinless lamb to atone for our sins. And I like how this commentator explains that verse. ‘God acted for our sake. That means God acted out of His LOVE, to make it possible to remove the separation between us and Him: our sin. To accomplish this, God made Christ, who had never sinned during His life on earth in any way, to become our sin. Jesus’ death, then, paid the price for our sin, removing our guilt and removing the obstacle between us and God. 

Instead of “being sin” ourselves, those who come to God through faith in Christ are given credit for Christ’s righteous, sinless life. We “become God’s righteousness” and are reconciled in our relationship with Him. In short, by His gift of grace and through our faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8–9), God receives Christ’s death as payment for our sin and gives us credit for Christ’s righteousness in return. That’s what it means to be “in Christ.” 

Glory Hallelujah my fellow saints! If that isn’t the greatest thing that’s ever happened to mankind, then I don’t know what is nuh! That’s why we LOVE and revere Jesus so much: His selflessness and obedience to the Father to go to the cross and accept all the ‘sufferation’ it involved, saved us from a life of torment and hellfire, with certain eternal separation from Almighty God. But His actions gave us an option, an option of immense importance; that we could live eternally and need not die. 

And all we had to do was to believe in Him. As He said to Martha when she confronted Him about His tardiness in coming to save her brother Lazarus: ‘I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead (may die), yet shall he live. And whosever liveth and believeth in me shall never die: believest thou this?’ (John 11:25-26) Now that’s a rather important question we should all ask ourselves RIGHT NOW, for if we don’t truly believe in Christ Jesus, then things will turn out very badly for us in the long run. 

And this passage from an earlier chapter in John, which we all know so well, spells it out in spades. ‘And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so LOVED the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.’ (John 3:14-18) 

There you have it my brethren: all it takes is simple belief in Christ Jesus. And if you don’t believe, then you are already condemned. And you might ask why that is? Well, here’s Jesus’ answer to that question. ‘And this is the condemnation, that light (the light) is come into the world, and men LOVED darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth (practices) evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved (exposed). But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.’ (John 3:19-21) 

It’s all so simple friends. There are only two options: evil or darkness and light or truth. The choice is entirely up to us as to which one we choose. But let’s remember the first option ends in hellfire and eternal separation from God, while the second, and only wise option, ends in heaven and eternal life with Jesus. And I sincerely hope that we all choose the second option, because it’s the only one that makes any sense, that manifests wisdom. And one last reminder of how that process works: ‘For by grace are ye (you have been) saved through faith; and not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.’ (Eph. 2:8-9) 

Please, please, let’s never forget that it’s only through the goodness of God’s grace that we are saved through belief in Jesus, and there’s NOTHING that we ourselves can do to attain eternal life, except sincerely believe in Christ Jesus. Now let’s go home declaring (chuh man!!!) our Thursday Blessings that have been generously bestowed on us so that we can spread the gospel, the good news of Christ, making it known throughout the entire world. 

As one strong and sincere voice: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’ 

Now, it’s our bounden duty to go out and use those tools, as generously as Christ bestowed them on us, to do His work. Much LOVE!

…only believe…even faith as small as the size of a mustard seed…that’s all it takes… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   2 February 2023 James 3:13.

02 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

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

James 3:13.       Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge (has understanding) among you? let him shew out of a good conversation (conduct) his works with meekness of wisdom (that his works be done in wisdom.)

It’s Thursday…and it’s sunny…Glory be! We won’t even bother to talk about the cold because it’s now wintertime in my area, and that means cold. (smile) So what shall we talk about today? Well, I just opened the Good Library and it opened unto the story of Jabez in 1 Chronicles, which is a marvellous story on honour and integrity. So let’s check that out nuh. 

The chapter opens by talking about the descendants of Judah, then, out of the blue declares: ‘And Jabez was more honourable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez (He will cause pain, Son of sorrow), saying, Because I bare him with sorrow.’ (1 Chr. 4:9) Now, we know how Old Testament names were very important and usually spoke of a person’s character and behaviour, however the next verse of the scripture, which we call ‘The Prayer of Jabez’ tends to disagree with the name Jabez’s mother gave him. 

It says: ‘And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast (border), and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me (cause me pain)! And God granted him that which he requested.’ (1 Chr. 4:10) And that’s all we know about Jabez. Now why is that eh? 

The scholars surmise that ‘the retention of this historical information probably indicates that God had granted Jabez’s request. His good accomplishments thus contradict his name “Son of Sorrow.” But I think it’s somewhat more than that. It shows that honour and integrity are very important in God’s framework. And was included in the scriptures as an example for us. Remember, nothing is in the scriptures unless there is a specific purpose. And Jabez’s story is there to show us that God rewards honour, integrity and good character. 

And I like this explanation of what makes a man honourable. ‘The word honorable has to do with people and actions that are honest, fair, and worthy of respect. An honorable person is someone who believes in truth and doing the right thing — and tries to live up to those high principles.’ And those traits are shown to be treasured all throughout the Bible. So let’s look at a few examples nuh. 

This first verse comes from Isaiah. ‘But the liberal (generous, noble) deviseth liberal (generous) things; and by liberal things shall he stand.’ (Is. 32:8) Now that doesn’t sound as explanatory as most of us would like, but this explanation says it much better. ‘A man who is bold, humble, responsible and worthy of respect; a man who trusts in the Lord and obeys Him alone. The honourable man is a leader who fears nothing but the Lord. If you seek to be this man; then this one’s just for you’ 

Yes friends, between those two passages we have a basic definition of honour, and it all traces right back to the things that God finds acceptable in His people. Remember God’s most important mention of honour; so important that He placed it in the Ten Commandments. ‘Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.’ (Ex. 20:12) 

Now that’s the first commandment of promise, meaning that if you do as it says your earthly life will be worthwhile. Unfortunately though, many children don’t treat their parents with respect and honour. And please note the Lord didn’t say if your parents raise or treat you right, you should honour them, but to honour them regardless of their behaviour. That’s your bounden duty. 

And Jesus even called out the Pharisees on it, when He said: ‘Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whosoever curseth father or mother let him die the death (be put to death). But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say a gift (dedicated to the temple), by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me, he shall be free. And ye suffer (allow) him no more to do ought (anything) for his father or for his mother. Making the word of God of none (no) effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered (handed down): and many such like things ye do.’ (Mark 7:9-13) 

That’s right, the Jews evaded responsibility to their parents by saying their substance was ‘Corban, ‘or dedicated to God,’ which obviously contradicted God’s law to honour their mothers and fathers. And sadly, many of us do the same thing today; finding all sorts of ways to ignore our parents or not help them in whatever aspect they have need. But one day it will certainly boomerang back on us, either right down here on planet earth, or in the day of judgement. 

And James tells us: ‘Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge (has understanding) among you? let him shew out of a good conversation (conduct) his works with meekness of wisdom (that his works be done in wisdom.)’ (James 3:13) That’s the King James Version, but the New Living Translation (NLT) puts it thus: ‘If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom.’ 

Meanwhile, Bruh Paul tells it to us in a simple overall manner in Romans. ‘Be kindly affectioned (affectionate) one to another with brotherly LOVE; in honour preferring (giving preference to) one another.’ (Rom. 12:10) Oh my brethren do we ever need to be devoted in honour and LOVE to each other, especially in these very dark and trying times. We need to show great respect for both ourselves and others, as well as the rules we live by. When we are honourable, we keep our word, and do the right thing, regardless of what others are doing. 

And that’s why the Lord has bestowed these amazing Thursday Blessings on us, so we can live the life that honours Him and our fellow man. But we need to declare those blessings to activate them. So let’s do that right now nuh, in strong and sincere voice. ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! 

I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’ 

Now, having declared them, let’s go out and use them to bless others, just as generously as God blessed us with them. Much LOVE!

…from the beginning of time…HONOUR…has been one of man’s important watchwords… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   22 January 2023 Hebrews 6:19a.

22 Jan 2023 Leave a comment

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

Hebrews 6:19a.       Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast,

And the days of this new year are moving swiftly by. Can you believe we’re already moving into the last full work week of January? Yuh better believe it! January will soon be over and we’ll be looking to Valentine’s Day, another big money spinner. But we’ll take it all in stride once we stay strong and steadfast in Christ and fellowship on the Sabbath, which is today. That means thanks, praise, worship and togetherness in the Lord’s sanctuary. Wow! That’s what the Lord’s Day is all about! 

And today we’ll open with an old but beautiful and favourite hymn, recorded by numerous artistes down through the years, aptly titled ‘Whispering Hope,’ written in 1868 by American musician and poet Septimus Winner (1827-1902). The text of the song refers to the anchor that keeps the soul unwavering – the ‘Whispering Hope’ for all Christians.’ So let’s lift our voice in sacrificial praise to heaven in a mid-tempo soulful, harmonious, heartfelt version of the song, letting them know that our souls are unwaveringly anchored in the biggest and best anchor, Jesus Christ. 

Singing: ‘Soft as the voice of an angel, Breathing a lesson unheard, Hope with a gentle persuasion Whispers her comforting word: Wait till the darkness is over, Wait till the tempest is done, Hope for the sunshine tomorrow, After the shower is gone. (Refrain: Whispering hope, whispering hope, oh, how welcome thy voice, oh how welcome thy voice, Making my heart, making my heart, in its sorrow rejoice.) If, in the dusk of the twilight, Dim be the region afar, Will not the deepening darkness Brighten the glimmering star? Then when the night is upon us, Why should the heart sink away? When the dark midnight is over, Watch for the breaking of day. [Refrain] 

Hope, as an anchor so steadfast, Rends the dark veil for the soul, Whither the Master has entered, Robbing the grave of its goal; Come then, oh, come, glad fruition, Come to my sad weary heart; Come, O Thou blest hope of glory, Never, oh, never depart. [Refrain: Whispering hope, whispering hope, oh, how welcome thy voice, oh how welcome thy voice, Making my heart, making my heart, in its sorrow rejoice.) 

Now wasn’t that just beautiful friends! And I do hope that those encouraging words lifted our spirits, giving us confidence to face the upcoming work week, for that’s one of the purposes of our Sunday fellowship. Now it’s widely acknowledged that the basis for this song comes from Chapter 6 of Hebrews, where the author talks about God’s covenant with Abraham which involves salvation among other things, (Gal. 3:15-24) which he received after he patiently endured. (Heb. 6:13-16) 

However God had more security on His mind, as the author writes. ‘Wherein God, willing (determining) more abundantly to show unto the heirs of promise the immutability (unchangeableness) of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath. That by two immutable (unchangeable) things in which it was impossible to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered even Jesus, made (having become) a high priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.’ (Heb. 6:17-20) 

And the scholars tell us that ‘God’s covenant with Abraham, which involves salvation (Gal. 3:15-25), is secure, being based upon two immutable things, that is. elements that cannot change. First, God’s promise is based on His own unchanging Word, He cannot lie, nor will He allow His Word to fail (Matt. 5:18; John 10:35; 17:17). Further, His word was confirmed by an oath. And since He can swear by none greater, He swears by Himself. He rests His Word on His holy character.’ 

Meanwhile, they further explain that in the last three verses ‘the author uses three pictures to demonstrate the security of being in Christ. First, it is described as a safe retreat for the believer, as were the six cities of refuge in the Old Testament to those allowed their protection (Num. 35:6-32).Second, our hope is sure and steadfast as is a well-placed, unbending anchor. Our anchor is not located in the deepest sea but in the highest heaven. The third figure is that of a forerunner. Though the figure changes, the location does not. Our forerunner is likewise positioned in the sanctuary of the heaven. 

As our forerunner, Jesus is different from the Old Testament priests. In the sanctuary they could intercede for the people, but they could not lead the people in themselves. As our forerunner, Jesus has opened the way before us, that eventually (and certainly) we might enter in with Him.’ Oh, I know that might sound somewhat confusing, but just take your time and read it. Now here is some other info on the song, in particular ‘As an anchor so steadfast.’ Now please don’t ask me where I got it from, because there’s no note to it. (smile) But it might just help us understand the anchor scene better. 

So please read with me: ‘It is a striking likeness when he compares faith leaning on God’s word to an anchor; for doubtless, as long as we sojourn in this world, we stand not on firm ground, but are tossed here and there as it were in the midst of the sea, and that indeed very turbulent; for Satan is incessantly stirring up innumerable storms, which would immediately upset and sink our vessel, were we not to cast our anchor fast in the deep. 

For nowhere a haven appears to our eyes, but wherever we look water alone is in view; yea, waves also arise and threaten us; but as the anchor is cast through the waters into a dark and unseen place, and while it lies hid there, keeps the vessel beaten by the waves from being overwhelmed; so must our hope be fixed on the invisible God. There is this difference, — the anchor is cast downwards into the sea, for it has the earth as its bottom; but our hope rises upwards and soars aloft, for in the world it finds nothing on which it can stand, nor ought it to cleave to created things, but to rest on God alone. 

As the cable also by which the anchor is suspended joins the vessel with the earth through a long and dark intermediate space, so the truth of God is a bond to connect us with himself, so that no distance of place and no darkness can prevent us from cleaving to him. Thus when united to God, though we must struggle with continual storms, we are yet beyond the peril of shipwreck. Hence he says, that this anchor is sure and steadfast, or safe and firm. It may indeed be that by the violence of the waves the anchor may be plucked off, or the cable be broken, or the beaten ship be torn to pieces. This happens on the sea; but the power of God to sustain us is wholly different, and so also is the strength of hope and the firmness of his word.’ 

Now that ought to clear up a few things. (smile) So let’s go home filled with heavenly hope that’s solidly, safely and securely anchored as it ought to in Christ our Lord and Saviour, our High Priest and forerunner or precursor in the heavens. Much LOVE!

…hope is what leads to faith…without hope, you can’t have faith… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   9 January 2023 Psalm 139:17.

09 Jan 2023 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 139:17.       How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them!

And finally, we come to the first full work week of this new year. Isn’t that just grand? Many of us won’t think so, because we’ve had a few consecutively short work weeks in the recent past. And before that, it was already tough for us to handle the five-day variety, I just wonder what’s going to happen to us now, that we’re going back to the same old, same old. (smile) But I have faith in us, for our awesome God made us to be resilient to the max! 

How did Bruh David describe our exotic creation in Psalm 139? ‘For thou hast possessed my reins (formed my inward parts): thou hast covered (weaved) me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well (very well). My substance (frame, bones) was not hid from thee when I was made in secret, and curiously (skillfully) wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. 

Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect (unformed); and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them, (the plans for my life were written before I was even made). How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.’ (Ps. 139:13-18) 

Now friends, that’s how important we are to our heavenly Father and Creator! He took His time and perfectly planned out our entire course before He even began to make us! That means we are very precious, special and important to our God. Why would He send His sinless Son Jesus Christ to die for us eh, if we weren’t important to Him eh? Jesus said: ‘For God so LOVED the world…’ (John 3:16) That’s why! 

And Bruh David also addressed the matter of our importance to God in Psalm 40, when he writes: ‘Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order (counted) unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.’ (Ps. 40:5) It just goes to show that we were not simply an afterthought of God, but a greatly desired and well-planned creation. 

Thus, He’s so good, so merciful and gracious unto us. We’re made in His image, living through the breath of His life, and destined to be with Him till eternity! If that doesn’t shout importance, LOVE, and togetherness, then I don’t know what does! The problem though is that our minds are too puny and finite to understand God’s great LOVE for us. As Bruh Paul declares in his epistle to the church at Rome: ‘O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgements, and his ways are past finding out!’ (Rom. 11:33) 

That’s gospel truth my faithful brethren! And the prophet Isaiah said it long before Bruh Paul, when he wrote of our Creator: ‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.’ (Is. 55:8-9) That’s putting it mildly my people!  

And the scholars explain: ‘God’s sovereignty and omniscience are extolled by the statement that His thoughts (i.e. purposes or intentions) and ways (directions) are higher than ours. While God may certainly be known by men, He is still incomprehensible in the totality of His person and purpose.’ Simply stated: we can never fully understand or know our Creator! But that’s why He gave us those things called hope and faith, trust and surrender. So that despite our inability to fully know and understand His purposes and intentions, we can rest assured that His intentions to us are always for good. 

Like Jeremiah puts it: ‘For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil (calamity), to give you an expected end (a future and a hope).’ (Jer. 29:11) Now seeing all the good that the Lord has done for us, in spite of our rebellion, disobedience and blasphemy against Him, why is it so difficult to believe that He truly cares for us and wants only our best eh? And why do we fight against this reassuring scripture eh? ‘And we know that all things work together for good to them that LOVE God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.’ (Rom. 8:28) 

Our problem is that we are so selfish, greedy and entitled that we don’t want to have any unfortunate circumstances happen to us, we’re just interested in living for today. We don’t care about it all ending up right, we want it right, right now! But that’s not the way the world or our God operates. And if we don’t hurry up and get smart and accept those facts, then crapaud smoke we pipe! We’re going to pay an awfully high price for not believing and trusting Almighty God. 

But for those of us who have already woken up from our slumber, let’s go to our Creator through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, offering thanks and praise, then asking for forgiveness and help. As one voice: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. We desperately need Your divine help, for You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems. 

Heavenly Father, we admit that we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but we know that You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek Your face. That’s why we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading with You to give us wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems. And Father, we pray that you will ease the pain of the many who are suffering from negative situations. 

Please show them Your awesome grace and mercy, and keep Your promise that You’ll hear our prayer, forgive us, and heal our land if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’ 

Now the ball is in our court; time to keep our promises and turn from our evil ways. Much LOVE!

…humans are the most important of God’s creations…His awesome LOVING-kindness to us…though undeserved…shows that in spades… 

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

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