21 Oct 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a destructive weapon, a disciplined mind, all the days of my life, as many as are led by the Spirit of God, autumn leaves, autumn season, be of good cheer, but of power love and a sound mind, came upon me to devour my flesh, climate change, come to know and love christ like we do, constantly study the word, don't feel guilty when you're afraid, dread, even mine enemies and my foes, faith, fear comes from the enemy, fear does not come from God, fear has no part in a Christian's life, fear hath torment, fear is a natural human emotion, fearful tidings, fiery red, For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, God shall hide me in his pavilion, God's greatest attribute is love, he shall set me upon a rock, he that feareth is not made perfect in love, holy spirit, hurry, i have overcome the world, I will seek after, in god's eyes, in living colour, in me ye might have peace, in the secret of his tabernacle, in the time of trouble, in the world ye shall have tribulation, in this will I be confident, Jesus Christ, let not your heart be troubled, LOVE, mercy, my heaart shall not fear, my peace I give unto you, neither let it be afraid, not as the world giveth give I unto you, not received the spirit of bondage to fear, of whom shall I be afraid, One thing have I desired of the Lord, overcome fear by faith in Jesus, overcome us in our weakness, Peace i leave with you, perfect love casteth out fear, reap the good benefits God has to offer, received the Spirit of adoption, salvation, share His love with my neighbours, share the amazing love and friendship of Christ, that I may dwell in the house of the Lord, the beloved of God, the introduction to winter, the joy of the Lord is our strength, the Lord is my light and my salvation, the Lord is the strength of my life, the Prince of Peace, the sons of God, there is no fear in love, these things I have spoken unto you, they stumbled and fell, though an host should encamp against me, though war should rise against me, to behold the beauty of the Lord, to enquire in his temple, trust my friend Jesus, truth, Tuesday Mantra, when the wicked came upon me, whom shall I fear, wisdom, with the whole wide world, worry
John 16:33b. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Well, well, well, if it isn’t Tuesday! In living colour too! Although the beautiful colours of the fall leaves as they change from green to whatever, are somewhat dampened by the overall cloudiness of the day. And yes, the leaves are finally changing in this exceptional year of 2025. In a normal year, they would have changed already, but that’s climate change for you.
And speaking of beautiful colours, my neighbour has a tall tree in his backyard, and the leaves are now all a marvellous fiery red. When I looked out my bedroom window this morning, much to my surprise, it’s like I saw a big, beautiful fire out there! (smile) Autumn is indeed the most beautiful season, as it pertains to colours, but it also has the sad drawback as being the introduction to winter and its dead, dreadful look and feel.
But then fear or dread has no part in the life of a Christian, for as Bruh Paul confidently declared to Timothy, and consequently us: ‘For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.’ (2 Tim. 1:7) That means that anytime fear bombards us, it’s not coming from our God, but the enemy, who uses fear as one of his most destructive weapons against believers. For he knows that once he gets us afraid, then we lose the joy of the Lord, which is our strength (Neh. 8:10) and thus he can quickly overcome us in our weakness.
Therefore, we need to keep scriptures that admonish and drive away fear at the forefront of our minds, especially in these evil and fearful times, when the enemy is in the ascendance and is constantly bombarding us with fearful tidings. We need to have scriptures like these two from Jesus at the very tips of our tongues when fear strikes. Jesus encouraged His followers with these wonderful words. ‘Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.’ (John 14:27)
Then later on, He again touched on the subject of fear, knowing that the world would certainly come against us, even if it’s simply because we call ourselves Christians. He encouraged us thus. ‘These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.’ (John 16:33) Yes friends when we associate with Jesus we have peace, because He is the Prince of Peace. And if we have the peace of Jesus, then we should not be afraid of what the world throws against us. Remember He said, ‘don’t let your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid,’ as well as ‘be of good cheer.’
Now obviously that is not always easy to do in this evil and ungodly world, but if we know the scriptures and stand strong in them, we will be able to overcome most of the fear that comes against us. And please don’t feel belittled or guilty when you’re afraid, for fear is a natural human emotion that comes over us in times of trouble or unknown situations. The good thing is that we can overcome fear by having strong faith in Christ! And to have strong faith means we have to constantly study the Word and put it into practice, as well as remember what the Lord has done for us and others in past tough times, and will do again if we ask Him to. For He still does miracles, keeps promises and answers prayer.
And here is an interesting comment by John, from his first epistle. He confidently states: ‘There is no fear in LOVE; but perfect LOVE casteth out fear: because fear hath (involves) torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in LOVE.’ (1 John 4:18) Yes my faithful brethren, torment is certainly not of God, and when we’re concentrating on LOVE, God’s greatest attribute, we won’t have time to be bothered by fear. And if we’re constantly fearful, it means that LOVE is not a big enough part of our lives.
Then there’s this admonishment from Bruh Paul in his letter to the Romans. ‘For as many are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.’ (Rom. 8:14-15) Another instance where it’s shown that constant fear is not a godly attribute, but one that the enemy likes to force on us. And what better words to close with than these awesome ones of courage and faith from Bruh David in Psalm 27 – titled ‘My Heart Shall Not Fear.’
Let’s declare it together: ‘The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up (devour) my flesh, they stumbled and fell. Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident. One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty (delightfulness) of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me upon a rock.’ (Ps. 27:1-5)
Yes my fellow believers, those ought to be desires on which we have purposefully set our hearts, for it’s only in close and constant association with Almighty God can we reap the good benefits He has to offer! Now let’s go home declaring our Tuesday Mantra, letting all and sundry know to whom we belong. As one strong and sincere voice: ‘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 my immediate neighbours, as well as with the whole wide world! Glory be!’
And having said that, it now behooves us to go out and share the amazing LOVE and friendship of Christ with others, so that they too can come to know and LOVE Him like we do! Much LOVE!
…fear is always around…but with faith…we can chase it away…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
15 Oct 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a disciplined mind, a second wind, according to his riches in glory, because of your unbelief, become discouraged, but of power love and a sound mind, come to grips with our faith, consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners, despising the shame, endure to the end, endured the cross, faith, faith can move mountains, For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, for the joy that was set before him, get my head around, glad to be alive, hands on the plough, holy spirit, how is it that ye have no faith, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, I have not found so great faith in Israel, I'm halfway home, if thou faint in the day of adversity, if ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, in accordance with God's will, in the tough times, it shall remove, Jesus Christ, lack of faith, lay aside every weight, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds, looking unto Jesus, lose our faith to fear, LOVE, mercy, my eyes are fixed straight ahead, my God shall supply all my needs, not turning back, nothing shall be impossible to you, o thou of little faith, O ye of little faith, our faith needs to be the greatest, our wonderful position in Christ Jesus, remove hence to yonder place, run with patience, salvation, say unto this mountain, searching the Good Library, seeing we are compassed about, send faith to answer it, set down at the right hand of the throne of God, so great a cloud of witnesses, stand up strong in faith, thank God, the author and finisher of our faith, the awesome help of Jesus, the breath of life is still flowing through me, the naked truth, the qiality of faith is more important than the quantity, the race that is set before us, the sin which doth so easily beset us, thy strength is small, to a glorious future with Jesus, truth, unseasonal days, Wednesday Wail, whare there's a will there's a way, when fear comes calling, wherefore didst thou doubt, why are ye so fearful, wisdom
Proverbs 24:10. If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.
Aye friends, it’s Wednesday, and we on the late bus. (smile) But hopefully we didn’t have to catch any second wind, because so far we’ve only worked one day for the week. However, knowing that some of us overdid it this past Thanksgiving weekend, it’s to be expected that that group would need to catch their second wind. (smile) And although it’s somewhat cloudy and a touch chilly, Wednesday is still a beautiful day for this time of year. Let’s hope and pray that we see more of these wonderful, unexpected, unseasonal days.
Now I’m chuckling here because today is one of those days when the Lord kept me dangling. Yes, most days when I ask Him to show me what He wants me to write on, He usually shows it to me fairly quickly, but today, for a good ten minutes I kept searching the Good Library, seeking something I could get my head around, but nothing seemed to be falling into that category, until I espied this seminal, influential verse from Cousin Sol in Proverbs. It simply, but very importantly says: ‘If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.’ (Prov. 24:10)
And that is the naked truth my people. As believers in Christ Jesus, we ought to be strong, especially in the tough times, when our faith needs to be the greatest. When we need to be telling ourselves scriptures like, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ (Phil. 4:13) And ‘God shall supply all my needs according to his riches in glory through Christ Jesus.’ (Phil. 4:19) And we don’t want to hear Jesus whispering through His Holy Spirit, like He said to the disciples when they were experiencing the crazy storm on the Sea of Galilee: ‘Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?’ (Mark 4:40) Or as Matthew puts it: ‘Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?’ (Matt. 8:26)
Then we have this instance when Peter was walking on the water, got scared and cried out for help. Jesus admonished him: ‘O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt.’ (Matt. 14:31) It’s surprising how often Jesus commented on the lack of faith that His Jewish people had, even those who claimed to believe in Him. It’s like when the Roman Centurion approached Him to heal his sick servant, but then told Him, He did not have to come to His house to do so. All He had to do was say the word and his servant would be healed.
The Bible tells us: ‘When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.’ (Matt. 8:10) Yes friends, as opposed to the Jewish people, whom Jesus had come to first save, this Gentile showed admirable faith, such that Jesus had not seen amongst His own kind. And sadly, in these turbulent and fearful times too many of us are afraid and lose our faith to fear, but please, let’s remember these most reassuring and encouraging words of Bruh Paul to Timothy: ‘For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.’ (2 Tim. 1:7)
And that’s how we need to stand up strong in faith. There’s also this occasion when the disciples could not heal an epileptic boy, and when they asked Jesus why? He said to them: ‘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 mih people, that just proves that a small amount of strong faith can move mountains, for the mustard seed is very small, but grows into a much larger tree.
Or as this commentary explains: ‘The core idea is that the quality of faith is more important than the quantity, and with true faith, nothing will be impossible for the believer when they are acting in accordance with God’s will.’ That means with sufficient faith we can overcome even the most daunting problems, if we sincerely depend on God’s help. Now, here are some other important verses of scripture that we ought to keep at the forefront of our minds in these evil and ungodly times.
This wonderful advice comes from the author of Hebrews: ‘Wherefore seeing (since) we also are compassed about with (surrounded by) so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset (ensnare) us, and let us run with patience (perseverance) the race that is set before us. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher (originator and perfector) 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. For consider him that endured such contradiction (hostility) of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint (become discouraged) in your minds (souls).’ (Heb. 12:1-3)
Oh my people, the stout example of Jesus is what we need to follow in these evil and dangerous times. And we know it’s not always easy, but as the old people would say, ‘where there’s a will, there’s a way.’ And with Jesus’ awesome help, we know that we can do much better than we’re currently doing. So please, let’s come to grips with our faith nuh, get serious about it and use it to help us to stand strong in Jesus’ name in this ungodly world. Now, it’s time to go home declaring our Wednesday Wail, proclaiming to all and sundry, our wonderful position in Christ Jesus.
As one strong and sincere voice. ‘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 to improve on that, there’s the promise that whoever endures to the very end with Jesus, will enjoy a future more glorious than they can ever comprehend or imagine. So let’s take it to heart and endure to the end, and thus enjoy that more than glorious future together! Much LOVE!
…when fear comes a calling…send faith to answer it…so that we can endure to the end…and be saved…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
31 Aug 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a disciplined mind, a spiritual source, be of good cheer, beats so imperfectly, believers are filled with doubts and fear, believest thou this, Christian themes of faith and grace, come unto me all ye that labour, crapaud smoke yuh pipe, each restless heart, emotional weariness, empowers to overcome adversity, faith, filled with wonder, find rest unto your souls, For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, gentle and humble, give thanks and praise, God will be our God, he that believeth in me, holy spirit, hope perseverance, I am still, I am strong, I am the resurrection and the life, I glimpse eternity, I will give you reat, Jesus Christ, Jesus is our only sure hope, Jesus your Guiding Light, Jesus your Lord and Saviour, Josh Groban, learn of me, LOVE, meek and lowly in heart, mercy, my heart burdened be, my soul so weary, my yoke is easy and my burden light, no life without its hunger, o thou of little faith, of power love and a sound mind, Peter walked on water, Pilot in the times of storm, relying on a divine power, sacrifices of praise, salvation, stand on mountains, strength, strife-filled times, take my yoke upon you, the glorious truth, the great invitation, the Lord's Sabbath, the new heaven and earth, the new Jerusalem, the renewal and regeneration of our souls, the support of another person, the troubles and challenges you face, though he were dead yet shall he live, to be more than I can be, to walk on stormy seas, truth, wait here in the silence, when I am down, when troubles come, whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die, why did you doubt, wipe away all tears sorrow pain and death, wisdom, you come and sit with me, You Raise Me Up
Matthew 11:28. Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
And as always, in the rotation of days, we come right back to Sunday, the first day of the week, and the Lord’s Sabbath, which requires us to attend His sanctuary to give thanks and praise and receive regeneration of our souls, minds, spirits and bodies. Today, on this last day of August 2025, we’ll open our worship session with a most appropriate song for these vexing, uncertain and strife-filled times.
It’s titled ‘You Raise Me Up,’ and was originally released on the 2001 Secret Garden album “Once in a Red Moon”, then was used for commemorations of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks despite not having been released in America yet. Then in 2003, Josh Groban released the American version, and it became a huge hit.
And what is the meaning behind the song? This commentary explains it thus: “You Raise Me Up” is an inspiring ballad about finding strength, hope, and perseverance through the support of another person, often interpreted as God or a spiritual source, especially during difficult times.
The lyrics describe a person’s emotional weariness and how the presence of a LOVING “you” empowers them to overcome adversity, “stand on mountains,” “walk on stormy seas,” and achieve more than they could alone. And for many Christians, the “you” in the song represents God, with the lyrics reflecting Christian themes of faith, grace, and relying on a divine power.’
So, now that we have some idea of what the song is about, let’s offer up sweet sacrifices of praise in a heartfelt soulful version that will have heaven singing along with us. Singing: ‘When I am down and oh, my soul so weary When troubles come and my heart burdened be Then I am still and wait here in the silence Until You come and sit awhile with me
(Chorus: You raise me up so I can stand on mountains You raise me up to walk on stormy seas I am strong when I am on Your shoulders You raise me up to more than I can be: You raise me up so I can stand on mountains You raise me up to walk on stormy seas I am strong when I am on Your shoulders You raise me up to more than I can be.)
There is no life, no life without its hunger Each restless heart beats so imperfectly But when You come and I am filled with wonder Sometimes, I think I glimpse eternity. (Chorus: You raise me up so I can stand on mountains You raise me up to walk on stormy seas I am strong when I am on Your shoulders You raise me up to more than I can be.
Yes, You raise me up so I can stand on mountains (You raise me up, I can stand on mountains) You raise me up to walk on stormy seas (Walk on stormy seas) And I am strong when I am on Your shoulders Oh, you raise me up to more than I can be Yes, You raise me up to more than I can be.’
And that’s the undeniable, indisputable and glorious truth my friends! For when Jesus is your Lord and Saviour, your Guiding Light and Pilot in the times of storm, then He will certainly raise you up above the troubles and challenges you face. And in His Great Invitation, we are welcomed to release all our burdens, weariness, stress and strain to Him and then enjoy His refreshing relief.
Listen to His marvellous invitation: ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of (from) me; for I am meek and lowly (gentle and humble) in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ (Matt. 11:28-30) Now where else can you ever receive such a genuine and welcoming invitation eh? Nowhere else but with Jesus!
And when you’re talking about walking on stormy seas, who else can help you do it but Jesus, as He showed when He went walking to the disciples on the stormy sea. Obviously, when the disciples saw Him, they thought it was a ghost and cried out for fear. ‘But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer (take courage); it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous (violent), he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?’ (Matt. 14:27-31)
And that’s the problem today with so many believers; we are filled with doubts and fear, that’s why our lives are so topsy turvy, and not as calm and peaceful as they ought to be. We need to remember these very reassuring words of Bruh Paul to Timothy and put them into action in our lives. ‘For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.’ (2 Tim. 1:7) That’s what we need to hear continually pounding in our ears every day, not the foolish fear that Satan tries to instill in us.
And I like that last verse which talks about ‘there’s no life without its hunger Each restless heart beats so imperfectly But when You come and I am filled with wonder Sometimes, I think I glimpse eternity.’ And we have eternity right here with us, for remember what Jesus said to Martha when she queried His statement that her brother Lazarus would rise again? Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead (may die), yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?’ (John 11:25-26)
And if you call yourself a Christian, then you’d better believe it, otherwise crapaud smoke yuh pipe! And don’t forget that John saw the new heaven and new earth, the new Jerusalem, where God will be our God and dwell with us, and we shall be His people, and He’ll wipe away all tears, sorrow, death, crying and pain, etc. etc. (Rev. 21: 1-4) I don’t know about you all, but I can hardly wait for that day to come! (smile) Much LOVE!
…trusting in Jesus…is the only sure hope…we have in this world…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
24 Aug 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a disciplined mind, a light unto my path, all I'm asking from you, all that I am, ammunition, as many as are led by the Spirit of God, be not afraid neither be thou dismayed, be strong and of a good courage, but of power love and a sound mind, cheating, crime, crowding my mind, do you remember, every tongue, fighting the good fight for Christ, For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, for God so loved the world, give me the strength, glorified together, have everlasting life, he gave his only begotten son, heirs of God, help me believe, help me today, holy spirit, I have to climb, I'm only human, if we suffer with Christ, if you're looking below, in what I could be, it's worse now than then, Jesus Christ, join the joyful throngs, joint heirs with Christ, LOVE, Marvia Providence, mercy, need to listen carefully, no weapon formed against thee shall prosper, one day at a time, one day at a time sweet Jesus, praise, pushing and shoving, responsibly handle the challenges of today, rise against thee in judgement, salvation, show me the stairways, show me the way, stealing, sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof, take therefore no thought for tomorrow, thanksgiving, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, the bells are ringing, the children of God, the heritage of the servants of the Lord, the leading and guiding of the Holy Spirit, the Lord thy God is with thee wherever you go, the Lord's faithful promise, the Lord's sanctuary, the morrow, the Sermon on the Mount, the Spirit of adoption, the spirit of bondage, their righteousness is from me, they are the sons of God, thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, thou shalt condemn, thy word is a lamp unto my feet, to do everything I have to do, tomorrow may never be mine, tomorrow shall take thought for the things of itself, truth, turn to the left, violence, walk in the footsteps of Christ, we cry Abba Father, we're born to faith not fear, when ye turn to the right hand, when you walked among men, where our bread is buttered, wisdom, with God as our guide, worship
Romans 8:14. ‘For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons (daughters) of God.
The bells are ringing on this beautiful but a tad cloudy Sunday morning my people! That means it’s time to join the joyful throngs heading to the Lord’s sanctuary to offer up praise, worship and thanksgiving and receive grace, mercy, forgiveness and strength to fight the good fight for another week. And opening today’s worship is a Christian contemporary song authored by Marijohn Wilkins and Kris Kristofferson, most appropriately titled, ‘One Day At A Time Sweet Jesus.’ And that’s all we can handle, even if we foolishly and selfishly wish for more.
And today we’re going to offer up a rich, scintillating, Reggae version of the song, per Jamaican Gospel Artiste, Marvia Providence. So, let’s open our mouths and hearts and allow sweet sacrifices of praise to reach up to high heaven, beginning with the rocking chorus. Singing! ‘(Chorus: One day at a time sweet Jesus That’s all I’m asking from you Give me the strength To do everything that I have to do Yesterday’s gone sweet Jesus And tomorrow may never be mine Help me today, show me the way One day at a time)
I’m only human I’m just a woman (man) Help me believe in what I could be and all that I am. Oh show me the stairways I have to climb Lord for my sake teach me to take One day at a time. (Chorus) Oh do you remember? When you walked among men? Well Jesus you know If you’re looking below That its worse now than then Oh there’s Cheating and stealing, violence and crime. There’s pushing and shoving And its crowding my mind So Lord for my sake teach me to take One day at a time.
(Chorus: One day at a time sweet Jesus That’s all I’m asking from you Just give me the strength To do everything that I have to do Yesterday’s gone sweet Jesus And tomorrow may never be mine Help me today, show me the way One day at a time Oh help me today Show me the way One day at a time… One day at a time…Sweet Jesus…Teach me to take One day at a time…One day at a time…Lord help me today…Show me the way…One day at a time.’
And if you are sincere, He will help you to do just that. For remember we recently read in the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus offered that exact wise advice, when He said: ‘Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil (trouble) thereof.’ (Matt. 6:34) That means, everyday has its own problems, that need to be handled right then, and although we should make some rough plans for the morrow, we ought to concentrate on what’s happening today, and not too much about tomorrow.
For if we don’t responsibly handle the challenges and responsibilities of today, we might not even get to tomorrow. Yes, as the song says; ‘tomorrow may never be mine.’ But if we do see tomorrow, with God as our guide, we will be able to responsibly handle those troubles and problems it creates. That’s our Lord’s faithful promise. But believe me, with all the confusion and otherwise that’s constantly happening around us, learning to take one day at a time is not always easy, that’s why the song asks for help to do it.
We’re only human, frail and fragile beings, so we need help to believe in what we could be and what we truly are. And there are a few scriptures that can help us do just that beginning with this most encouraging scripture from Bruh Paul to Timothy. ‘For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.’ (2 Tim. 1:7) That’s the first thing we must acknowledge; we’re not born to fear, but to faith.
Then know who we are in Christ. As Bruh Paul writes the Roman church. ‘For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons (daughters) of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.’ (Rom. 8:14-17)
Ah my brethren, if we believe in Christ, we need to realize that He’s freed us from fear and eternal death, and thus caused God to adopt us. And if we are children of God, then nothing can harm us. ‘No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgement thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of (from) me, saith the Lord.’ (Is. 54:17) More ammunition for us to be strong and not fear, once we link up with Jesus.
That brings us to this magnificent scripture, where the Lord Himself warned Joshua when He made him leader of the Israelites after the death of Moses. ‘Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.’ (Josh. 1:9) Now that is scripture we should have at the forefront of our lives, every day! For it’s the backbone of our faith; the continual and everlasting presence of our wonderful and faithful God walking beside us all the time.
As the prophet Isaiah further reminds us. ‘And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.’ (Is. 30:21) That’s the guiding and leading of the Holy Spirit that indwells us, softly whispering to us as we daily try to walk in the footsteps of Christ. The problem though is that if we truly want to hear that guiding voice, we need to listen carefully, for it’s not a loud, invasive or intrusive one, but a gentle, comforting voice.
And we cannot end without possibly the most important verse of scripture in the entire Bible; these marvellous, reassuring words of Jesus to Nicodemus: ‘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.’ (John 3:16) Now that shows just how much the Lord cares for His human creation. Therefore, let us stand strong in the Lord, and keep fighting the good fight for Christ, for that’s where our bread is buttered! Much LOVE!
…thy word is a lamp unto my feet…and a light unto my path… (Ps. 119:105)
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
11 Jun 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a child of God, a disciplined mind, a very present help in trouble, an abundantly available help, are not able to kill the soul, be of good cheer, both in the good and bad times, but of power love and a sound mind, call on God continually, don't be afraid of those who persecute you for your faith, endure to the very end with Christ, eyes fixed straight ahead, faith, faith is only built through tough times, fear God, fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body, fear not them which kill the body, For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, God is a refuge for us, God is our refuge and strength, God's sovereignty over life and death, halfway home, hands on the plough, he is my defence, He only is my rock and my salvation, holy spirit, i have overcome the world, I shall not be moved, In God is my salvation and my glory, in me ye might have peace, in the palm of his hands, in the world ye shall have tribulation, in time of trouble, Jesus Christ, Jesus defeated hell the death and the grave, light the candle at both ends, LOVE, mercy, my expectation is only from him, my refuge is in God, my soul wait thou only upon God, not turning back, omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient, pour out your heart before God, salvation, save from the ravages of this evil world, second wind day, Selah, set your soul free of fear, sons of Korah, thank God, the breath of life, the breath of life is still flowing through me, the importance of prioritizing God over human authority, the Lord God Almighty, the rock of my strength, therefore will not we fear, these things I have spoken unto you, though the earth be removed, though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea, though the mountains shake, though the water roar and be troubled, to a glorious future with Jesus, to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose, trust him at all times, truth, we know that all things work together for good, Wednesday Wail, who has authority over the physical and spiritual realms, wisdom
Psalm 46:1. ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help (an abundantly available help) in time of trouble.
So it’s Wednesday my people, our second wind day. It opened bright and sunshiny and somewhat cool, but it’s warming up, and we on the late bus, because after church, I ran around and did a couple errands, then had to come home and rest before writing the Bit. Yuh know the ole fella’s not as young as he used to be, and unfortunately can’t light the candle at both ends again. (smile)
And today, as we witness all the strife, the anger, the carnage and all the other negative things that are so prevalent in our world, I believe this word from the Sons of Korah in Psalm 46, is a good scripture for us to hold close to our hearts. So please read with me: ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help (an abundantly available help) in time of trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst (heart) of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.’ (Ps. 46:1-3)
Yes my fellow believers, that’s how strong our faith ought to be; winning out even in the most serious predicaments. That’s because the Lord God Almighty; our omnipotent, omniscient and omni-present Deity has us in the palm of His hands and has promised to take care of us. Like Bruh Paul says in his letter to the Romans: ‘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)
So, though we will have problems in this ungodly world, the Lord’s promised that in the end He will work it all out for the good of those who put their trust in Him. And Jesus reinforces that promise when He says: ‘These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.’ (John 16:33) And He certainly has, by defeating hell, death and the grave through His death and resurrection!
That means we ought not to be afraid of what man can do to us, but be more concerned about what the Lord Jehovah can do. As Jesus said: ‘And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.’ (Matt. 18:28) And what does all of the mean?
This commentary explains that verse thus: ‘Jesus encourages his followers not to be afraid of those who might persecute or kill them for their faith, as such people can only affect their physical body. The verse contrasts this with the fear of God, who has authority over both the physical and spiritual realms. The phrase “destroy both body and soul in hell” refers to the concept of eternal punishment, where the soul is also eternally separated from God. This verse highlights God’s sovereignty over life and death and the importance of prioritizing Him over any human authority.’
Now those are some things that we ought to take into serious consideration as we walk amongst all the evil and ungodly doings that are currently running rampant in our world. We all are human, and fear does come upon us at some time or other, but the important thing to remember is that God is sovereign over the entire universe, and as a child of God, you have His protection and ought not to let fear overtake you for any length of time. Remember these marvellous words of Bruh Paul to Timothy: ‘For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.’ (2 Tim. 1:7)
And if that doesn’t set your heart and soul free of fear, then listen to these most assuring words of Bruh David from Psalm 62, titled My Rock and My Salvation. He writes: ‘My soul, wait thou (silently) only upon God; for my expectation (hope) is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved (shaken). In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah’ (Ps. 62:5-8)
And if there’s one thing we can say about both Bruh David and Bruh Paul is that they not only talked the words of God, but they also walked them. They both had oodles of trials and tribulations, many more serious than any we will ever have, but they never once gave up on their faith, never once feared that the Lord would not come through for them. Now that’s the kind of faith we all need to build in these fearful and troubled times. However, unfortunately, faith is only built when we go through trials and tribulations, when we personally endure tough times.
We don’t need faith when the going’s good; but we surely need it when we don’t have the foggiest notion how to handle our tough situations. And that’s the time to call upon Almighty God for help, and believe that He will see you through! But more importantly, take a page from Bruh David’s book and continually call on Him. (smile) Bruh David constantly called on the Lord, even when thinks were good. That’s when we need to give Him praise and thanks for keeping our souls and lives together.
We can’t only know Him when things are rough. But sadly, that’s the only time many of us call on Him. No friends, the Lord God Jehovah must always be in our sights, be our times good or bad, for that’s when He knows that we truly care for Him, and are not only interested in what He can do for us. And with all that glorious information under our belt, (smile) let’s go home declaring our Wednesday Wail.
As one, in a strong and sincere voice: ‘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 if you truly know the Lord, then you’ll know of the promise that those who endure right to the very end with Jesus, will have a future even more glorious than we can ever ask or imagine. So please, let’s be wise and make plans to endure right to the very end nuh, and so enjoy that glorious future together! Much LOVE!
…only in God…can we be truly safe…from the ravages of this evil world…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
31 May 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a disciplined mind, a life devoid of strife and hatred, a positive response, according to his own purpose and grace, according to the power of God, appear outwardly beautiful, appear outwardly righteous, as the hart panteth after the water brooks, be not ashamed of the Lord's testimony, be partaker of the afflictions of the gospel, before the world began, brought life and immortality to light, but of power love and a sound mind, by the putting on of my hands, called us with an holy calling, deceit, don't have time to spend with God, eccentricities, eternal life, faith, For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, fraudulence, full of dead men's bones, genuine faith, given us in Christ Jesus, God-given abilities, good news of the gospel, gotten up off our rear ends, great joy on earth and in heaven, heartfelt sincerity, heed the urgent call of jesus, holy spirit, I may know you all the more, I praise you for your unceasing nearness, I put thee in remembrance, I want to be with you now, increase my awareness of you today, intimacy with god, it's not too late to turn things around, Jesus Christ, Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer, like unto whited sepulchres, living a life filled with salt and light, LOVE, love and kindness, mercy, Mother Nature, my soul thirsts for God, no one to blame but ourselves, not according to our works, now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour, our world is a paradox, quiet my soul, relax my muscles, roll along with the tumbling tunbleweed, run Beelzebub out of town, salvation, self-aggrandizement, selfishness, sincere of heart, slow my thoughts, so panteth my soul after thee O God, spreading our salty flavour and bright light, still expect to receive his blessings, stir up the gift of God, thank you for this tenderness, the darkness and death that Satan offers, the sons of Korah, the unfeigned faith, true disciples of Jesus, truth, unpredictable year, whine and complain about the sad state of the world, whitewashed tombs, who hath abolished death, who hath saved us, wisdom, within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity, woe unto you scribes and Pharisees hypocrites, your love both surrounds and fills me
2 Timothy 1:6. Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on (laying on) of my hands.
There we have it friends, the end of another month of this crazy and unpredictable year of 2025! And I’m still amazed at how quickly the days and months are going by. And not only are the days and months passing by quickly, but the weather is also topsy-turvy. Yesterday we had highs in the twenties and you could feel the heat. Today though, our lazy-day Saturday will barely get up into the mid-teens, while being cloudy and very windy. And, unfortunately, it’s definitely not in our power to stop or control Mother Nature and her eccentricities, (smile) we can only roll along with the tumbling tumbleweed if we want to survive and be successful in the long run.
Our world today is a paradox that only the Lord could work out and understand. But we can certainly benefit from His colossal wisdom by turning to Him and asking for His wonderful assistance. So lets’ do that right now by offering up our Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer with heartfelt sincerity. As one strong 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!’
Now, that’s one of the great things about our God; we can pray to Him, and if it’s in His will, and we’re sincere of heart, then almost immediately we can get a positive response. Especially if it’s a desire to grow closer to Him. That just floors Him every time! (smile) And because intimacy and communion with Him were amongst the major reasons He created us, He obviously cannot refuse a sincere request to get intimate with Him. Not at all! That brings to mind these two marvellous verses from Psalm 42 titled – My Soul Thirsts for the Lord – where the Son of Korah write: ‘As the hart (deer) panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?’ (Ps. 42:1-2)
Oh friends, that’s how we believers ought to be hungering and thirsting for our great and wonderful God. But sadly, too many of us supposed believers don’t have the time to spend with Him, or even want to spend time with Him, but we do expect to receive His awesome blessings and favours though. What a set of bloody hypocrites we are. It’s like Jesus saying to the Pharisees: ‘Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres (whitewashed tombs), which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and are of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity (lawlessness).’ (Matt. 23:27-28)
Ah mih people, definitely too many of us fit that disgraceful sobriquet in these perilous times, brought about to a large extent by our unwillingness to get out into the world and impart Christ’s gospel to the heathen, by spreading our salty flavour and bright light in the terrible darkness that exists there. And why have we so badly reneged on our promise to go out and manifest the Great Commission? Who knows? Possibly through laziness, shame, fear, or whatever cunning and deceitful method the devil used to restrict us.
But let’s remember these fateful words of Bruh Paul to Timothy. ‘When I call to remembrance the unfeigned (genuine) faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice, and I am persuaded that in thee also. Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on (laying on) of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.
Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions (share with me the sufferings) of the gospel according to the power of God: Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began (before time), But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.’ (2 Tim. 1:5-10)
Yes my fellow saints, we have been appointed by our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who, through His selfless sacrifice on the cross of Calvary, brought us salvation and eternal life, to go over all the world and spread the good news of His gospel, so that all the earth would have the option of accepting His amazing options of light and life over the dreaded darkness and death that Satan offers. But we have failed to live up to our promises as His true disciples, as His ambassadors and representatives here on earth. What a shameful display my brethren!
But then we whine and complain about the sad state of our world! Do we ever sit and consider what would have happened if many more of us had gotten up off our rear ends and gone out and lived the life of a true Christian. Not even preaching the gospel, but simply living a life filled with salt and light, with LOVE and kindness, one devoid of strife and hatred, of deceit and fraudulence, of greed and envy, of selfishness and self-aggrandizement! Yes friends, if a greater portion of us had lived that kind of life, our world would certainly not be in the ungodly and chaotic state that it’s currently in.
So, when we complain about the terrible times we’re now facing, let’s remember that a lot of it stems from our lack of living the way we ought to, so we have no one else to blame but ourselves. But thankfully it’s not too late for us to turn things around. So please, let’s wake up and heed the urgent call of Jesus nuh, and get together and use all the tools we have to run Beelzebub out of town! What great joy that would bring, both here on earth and in heaven above! Much LOVE!
…it’s time for us to wake up…and use our amazing God-given abilities…to turn the world around…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
24 Feb 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a disciplined mind, a good day's work, a great cloud of witnesses, alleviate our problems, ambassadors of Christ, be cast out, be discouraged, be your best, Bible, but of power love and a sound mind, christianity, compassed about, complaining, consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners, despising the shame, disciples of Jesus, divine aid, do your best, endured such hostility of sinners, endured the cross, faint in your minds, faith, faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers, follow the example of Jesus, For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, for the joy that was set before him, freedom from sin, glorify your father in heaven, good for nothing, heroes of the faith, hold our heads high, holy spirit, humble servants, Jehovah Rapha, Jesus Christ, joy, lay aside every weight, lest ye be weary, Let your light so shine before men, live up to a high standard, look your best, looking unto Jesus, LOVE, mass confusion in our world, mercy, negative vibes, nothing fazed Jesus, originator, perfector, pray, put your best foot forward, repentance, resentment, run with patience, salt lost its flavour, salvation, see your good works, set down at the right hand of the throne of God, sincerely seek your face, sinned and seriously disobeyed your word, spoil our witness, strong faith in Christ, the author and finisher of our faith, the God who heals, the light of the world, the race set before us, the revolutionary feat, the salt of the earth, the sin that doth easily so beset us, the slavery of sin, took it in stride, trodden underfoot, truth, turn from our evil ways, under a basket, ungrateful sinners, wisdom, wise guidance
Hebrews 12:2a. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher (originator and perfector) of our faith;
Another Monday’s on the agenda friends, but I know that we can and will handle it with the quiet aplomb and efficiency that we’ve learned from the masterful example of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Nothing that came against Him fazed Him, He just took it in stride. Not even the excessive cruelty He faced on our behalf, caused Him to lose sight of His heavenly Father’s goal; accomplishing the amazing and revolutionary feat of earning freedom from sin’s abject slavery for a bunch of ungrateful sinners.
And that’s how He expects us, His followers, ambassadors and agents on this evil and ungodly earth to behave. Now He doesn’t expect perfection either, because He knows we’re not perfect and will never be until He comes to take us home and changes us, but nonetheless He expects us to always put our best foot forward. As the late Uncle Charles (Dr. Charles Stanley) used to say: ‘Look your best, do your best and be your best!’
That says it all my people. For as the author of Hebrews so vividly explains it: ‘Wherefore seeing (since) we also are compassed about with (surrounded by) so great a cloud of witnesses (those heroes of the faith that went before us), let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset (ensnare) us, and let us run with patience (perseverance) the race that is set before us,
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher (originator and perfector) 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. For consider him that endured such contradiction (hostility) of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds (become discouraged.’ (Heb. 12:1-3)
Yes friends, that’s the example we’re supposed to follow. As disciples of Jesus we’re expected to live up to a high standard; so high, that when the unbelievers see us in action, they’ll hold their heads in awesome wonder and want what we have that makes us so joyful, peaceful, LOVING and calm. (smile) So as this new Monday rolls around, and we go out to do the same banal, every day, ofttimes boring tasks, let’s hold our heads high and get on with His business without any complaining, resentment and negative vibes to spoil our witness.
All the time, remembering Jesus’ strong admonitions: ‘Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour (flavour), wherewith (by what) shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle (lamp), and put it under a bushel (basket), but on a candlestick (lampstand); and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.’ (Matt. 5:13-16)
Of course my fellow saints, that’s the kind of strong witness expected of us true and faithful believers of Christ especially in these rather ungodly and sinful times! However, unfortunately, we don’t seem to be doing such a great job of witnessing for Christ, otherwise the devil would not have such a stranglehold on the affairs of the world and Christians would be filled with much more faith, LOVE and joy, not with the fear and anxiety that so many of us now project.
But let’s remember this other admonition from Bruh Paul before we foolishly throw in the towel and give up in the face of the enemies evil strategies. That’s one of the reasons Bruh Paul wrote these telling words to Timothy: ‘For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.’ (2 Tim. 1:7)
Now that’s a most important scripture for us to remember today, as we step out into the world, clothed in God’s armour to continue the fight for Jesus’ righteous and just army. And to help us do that, let’s go to the throne of grace, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, seeking help in this time of dire need.
Altogether: ‘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. Heavenly Father, You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems.
Yes, we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but 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. So, we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading for wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems.
Oh Father, please ease the pain of the many suffering from negative situations, show them Your awesome grace and mercy. And faithfully keep Your promise to prosper us 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 all of that simply means; to get divine aid, we must improve our godly behaviour! So let’s get out there and do it today nuh! Much LOVE!
…all Jesus expects of His followers…is a good, faithful day’s work…everyday…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
14 Dec 2024
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a disciplined mind, a loving and compassionate God, all in Jesus' name, believers can be assured of ultimate triumph, Bible, boost our courage, bring more of the world to Christ, but of power love and a sound mind, by us in every place, calm any storm, christianity, deepen my breath, distress, enlargement and deliverance, even when things seem difficult, faith, For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, for such a time as this, forgiveness, free will, from a different place, get up off of our fat fannies, God will always lead people to victory, holy spirit, I may know you all the more, I praise you for your unceasing nearness, increase my awareness of you today, it all depends on us, Jesus Christ, Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer, leads us to triumph in christ, like a sweet smelling fragrance, LOVE, maketh manifest, mercy, pick up Christ's mantle, plant the seeds in us, ponder our earthly purpose, relax my muscles, rise up and accomplish it, salvation, seeking succour, slow my thoughts, spread the gospel, Thanks be to God, the power invested in us by Christ, the savour of his knowledge, times of hardhip, truth, turn things around, watch them sprout and bear fruit, water them faithfully, we can move any mountiain, who always causes us to triumph, who knows, will arise to the Jews, wisdom, you are come to the kingdom
Esther 4:14b. and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
Ah, what a lazy-day Saturday, sunshiny and cold, but with a promise of inclement weather sometime later on in the day. Chuh man! But however it comes, we’ll gladly take it because we know that we already have the victory in Jesus, for as Bruh Paul wrote to the church at Corinth in his second missive: ‘Now thanks be to God, which always causeth us to triumph (leads us to triumph) in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour (fragrance) of his knowledge by us in every place.’ (2 Cor. 2:14)
And what does all of that mean eh? One commentary says: ‘This verse doesn’t mean that things will always be easy or perfect, but that God will always lead people to victory. Even when things seem difficult, people can be assured that they will ultimately triumph.’ And, as per Interpretation: ‘Some say that God uses people to spread his knowledge about Christ like a sweet-smelling perfume.’ And wouldn’t that be a wonderful thing if we went around spreading the gospel like a sweet-smelling fragrance that draws people to it!
Then there’s this other commentary that asks, ‘How does God cause us to triumph?’ And answers: ‘Created for good works which God has prepared before hand that we should walk in them; success must be considered through the lens of the works we have been created to achieve. There can be no triumph until we engage in His work and live through His victories. He is the one that causes us to triumph.’ I guess that says it loud and clear; we cannot have victory until we do what the Lord has assigned us to do!
And having ironed out that subject (smile), let’s offer up our Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer with all sincerity and truth. As one voce: ‘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!’
Now what a sweet and touching prayer that is! (smile) Reaching out to our Lord and God for greater awareness and intimacy with Him, the way He designed it when He created us. Oh friends, how many times in His Word does the Lord tell us to come to Him, to seek His face, to look to Him for whatever we desire? Numerous times! But we, through foolish pride and a sinful nature, refuse to do so, until we reach ground zero and things are truly looking hopeless. Only then do some of us condescend to turn to a LOVING and compassionate God for mercy and forgiveness.
But by then we have suffered so unnecessarily that sometimes we are never the same. Although, with God’s help, we can become what He wants us to become, if we decide to do it. But friends, it all depends on us. We have all the tools, the seeds, the whatever it takes to make this a fairly joyful and abundant life, the life that Christ died for us to have! However, it all depends on us taking up those tools, planting those seeds and faithfully watering them until they sprout up and bear fruit.
It’s not an easy life to follow, especially in this current evil and ungodly world, but we have all the parts to do it, we just have to get up off of our fat and lazy fannies and do it! Remember, ‘For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.’ (2 Tim. 1:7) And with that power, that authority, we can move any mountain, quiet any storm and turn things around, all in Jesus’ name! Jesus has done all He can for us already. There’s no more for Him to do, except accept us with LOVING, open arms when we come to Him seeking succour and assistance in times of hardship and distress.
Please remember too, that we have free will and the Lord will not go against it to force us to do anything He wants. He will encourage and tease us to do His will, but He will not force us. So, it all depends on us now, to use all that He’s given us to rise up and become what He’s designed us to become. And furthermore, if the Lord didn’t think we could handle the problems here on earth, He would not have put us here right now.
It’s like that time back when the Jews were living in Babylon, and there was a plot afoot by the Jewish hating administrator, Haman, to kill the Jews. That brought up a thorny problem, for unknowing to the people, the then Queen Esther was Jewish, and her uncle Mordecai wanted her to take the Jewish problem into her husband the Persian king Ahasuerus, but she balked at doing so, knowing that if she entered the kings presence without an invitation, it could mean certain death.
And these were the immortal words Mordecai spoke to Esther on the subject. ‘For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time (remain completely silent), then shall there enlargement (relief) and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?’ (Est, 4:14)
Now that’s a question that all of us believers ought to be asking ourselves: have we been born for such a time as this; to pick up Christ’s mantle and do the things He desires of us? And, like Esther boosted her courage and did what she had to do to save her people, we also ought to be willing to do what we need to do to bring more of the world to Christ! So please, as we enjoy this lazy-day Saturday, let’s also ponder our purpose on this earth, then, with the power invested in us by Christ, rise up and accomplish it! Much LOVE!
…God created each human being for a specific purpose…and with His help…we can discover it…then do it successfully…
29 Nov 2024
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a crying shame, a new flock of believers, all evildoers floudrish, approach the throne of grace, as stubble before the wind, be forever destroyed, Black Friday, Christian witness, come short of the glory of God, comfort, compassion, compromise, cut off in the midst, divine aid, drink of the wrath of the Almighty, encompassed by sin, faith, fear, fold of righteousness, For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, Friday chant, give up eternity for hellfire, God distributes sorrows in his anger, God stores up a man's iniquity, hellfire and damnation, holy spirit, hunger and thirst for sin, hurtful consequences, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, Jesus Christ, like chaff, LOVE, mercy, of power love and a sound mind, omnipotent help, peace, salvation, shopping day after Thanksgiving, short lived, sincerity, sinners, stand strong and steadfast for Christ, strife, the animal mentality, the congregation of the righteous, the error of their ways, the eventual destruction of the ungodly, the gift of God is eternal life, the joys of sin, the light of the world, the Lord knows the way of the righteous, the Lord's promise, the salt of the earth, the simmering unrest, the ungodly are not so, the ungodly shall not stand in the judgement, the wages of sin is death, the way of the ungodly shall perish, the wicked spring up like grass, the wind drives away, trusting faith, truth, unexpected storms, ungodliness, violence, wake up and smell the coffee, we have all sinned, who meditates on God's word prospers, wild animals, wisdom, with God all things are possible, with men this is impossible
Psalm 1:6. For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.
And then it was Black Friday; the crazy shopping day after Thanksgiving, where all the reputed sales draw crowds of shoppers to the stores to behave like wild animals, in a mad stampede, to buy the few things that are actually marked down. The commerce people have this thing down to a science, knowing that once they get you into the store you will not leave without buying something else at regular or even marked up prices. And the sad part is that every year there are tales of violence and woe with the mad rushing and scrambling to be the first to get into the stores and grab whatever product(s) they have allegedly marked down.
But I guess the animal mentality is still strong in our nature, and we just seem to LOVE a fight. You only have to look at the amount of fighting and strife that’s currently taking place all over our world. There are probably more places in strife than are in peace. What a crying shame! And that most appropriately brings us back to Psalm 1 that we began studying a couple of days ago. We saw how the man who meditated on God’s Word and walked in His ways prospered.
But as the Psalm goes on to explain. ‘The ungodly are not so; but are like the chaff (husks, shells) which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the jurdgement, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.’ (Ps. 1:4-6) Oh my people, this has been the Lord’s promise from the very beginning of time! From Genesis to Revelation, His Word is filled with the eventual destruction of the ungodly, and the salvation of the righteous. What is in that we cannot understand?
And if we want more confirmation of the destruction of the ungodly, Job says it thus: ‘How oft is the candle (lamp) of the wicked put out! And how oft cometh their destruction upon them! God distributeth sorrows in his anger. They are as stubble before the wind, and as chaff that the storm carrieth away. God layeth up his iniquity for his children (stores up a man’s iniquity): and he rewardeth him, and he shall know it. His eyes shall see his destruction, and he shall drink of the wrath of the Almighty. For what pleasure hath he in his house (what does he care about his household) after him, when the number of his months is cut off in the midst?’ (Job 21:17-21)
Now that’s a very good question! And I’d like to further ask, what’s in sinful living that’s so wonderful that we are willing to give up eternity in heaven for hellfire and damnation with Satan? Yes, as the Bible says, we all have sinned and come short of the glory of God, (Rom. 3:23) and we all know that the joys of sin are short-lived and can bear many hurtful consequences. As hurtful as this scripture: ‘For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.’ (Rom. 6:23)
So, although we have an option to get away from a life encompassed by sin, yet we still hunger and thirst for it, instead of righteousness. We just have to look at the world and see the ungodliness that’s rampaging through it, with godliness running a far distant second place. Now that’s not right my fellow believers, for Jesus expects us, as His ambassadors here on earth to live a worthy life and speak words of truth and sincerity that will bring the unbeliever to His fold of righteousness, not allow them to wallow in the mire of Satan’s sinful kingdom.
However, it’s obvious that we’re not doing such a great job, neither by the example our lives set, or the sincerity of our words, for it seems like more people are turning away from God every day, than are joining His ranks. It’s not a very good situation in which we find ourselves, my faithful brethren, but we have no one else to blame for our lack of successful witness than ourselves. For through, fear, comfort, compromise, or whatever reason, we have not been the light of the world and the salt of the earth that Jesus intends for us to be.
But it’s not too late to do something about it, for we have these magnificent and powerful scriptures in our grasp. The first one comes from the words of Bruh Paul to Timothy: ‘For God hath not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.’ (2 Tim. 1:7) And the next one comes from Jesus. As the disciples were pondering His remark that it was easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven, He made them to understand: ‘With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.’ (Matt. 19: 26)
Yes my fellow saints, let’s remember that all things are possible with our great God, and that we have His Holy Spirit and power flowing through us, so it is indeed possible for us to do some serious damage to Satan’s kingdom, if we only believe and try, put our best efforts forward, in Jesus’ name. Now, let’s go to the throne of grace, through our Friday Chant, seeking divine aid to turn things around.
Altogether: ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough… because our many serious problems are escalating instead of improving. And it’s obvious we can’t fix them on our own, so Lord, we’re desperately crying out for 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. We therefore ask you Lord to give our leaders the wise guidance to handle these unexpected storms properly. And please help the rest of us to be responsible and to stay safe amidst all the anxiety and confusion of these ungodly times.
We fervently pray too Lord that you’ll use the discontent and dissatisfaction in our land as a means of restoring faith in you. 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. 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!’
And if we expect divine aid, then we have to do what our prayer says; set better examples of Christian witness. Much LOVE!…
Though the wicked spring up like grass…and all evildoers flourish…they will be forever destroyed… (Psalm 92:7)
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
21 Sep 2024
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a celebration of life, a spirit of power love and a sound mind, and now abideth faith hope love, anger, carefree boys, deepen my breath, faith, fight the good fight of faith, For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, for the purpose of sharing love, God creates people out of love, hate, I may know you all the more, increase my awareness of you today, intimacy, Jesus Christ, Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer, LOVE, love the Lord with all thy heart soul and mind, Love thy neighbour as thyself, of love, power, quiet my soul, relax my muscles, resentment, slow my thoughts, St. Francis 50th Anniversary, strife, the great commandment, the greatest of these three is love, the joyful presence of the Lord, the light of the world, the salt of the earth, truth, warms the cockles of God's heart, wisdom, your unceasing nearness
1 Corinthians 13:13. And now abideth faith, hope, charity (LOVE), these three; but the greatest of these is charity (LOVE).
And it’s a somewhat cool and cloudy lazy-day Saturday morning. But I’m probably noticing it because I’m up and about my Father’s business much earlier than usual. (smile)Yes friends, after a wonderful dinner and dance celebration of our Parish’s 50th Anniversary, where everyone had a wonderful time – and that’s one thing about St. Francis, whenever we gather together, we always have a good time, because that’s just the kind of believers we are, famously led by our august priest and party leader, Fr. Jeff Brown. (smile)
But on a more serious note, I’m up this early because we now have to gather in church for a celebration of life (funeral) for one of our parishioners, Bob Wilson, who recently passed away from that evil scourge of our time, cancer. Our condolences go out to his wife, Angela, their paraplegic son, Luke and the rest of his family. I can’t sing the praises of those parents enough for the way I saw them take care of Luke over the years with such devotion and LOVE, bringing him to church continually when he was able to come.
Now, Luke is not always easy to take care of with his mischievous and joyful self, despite his physical limitations. And whenever I do see him, whether it’s at church or some other function, we joyfully disrupt the proceedings, like two, young, carefree boys. I’m looking forward to seeing him this morning, because I haven’t seen him for a while, although, under the prevailing circumstances, we might just be on our best behaviour today. (smile)
So, with that grieving family in mind, and the comfort that we hope the Lord provides them, let’s offer up our Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer with 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!’
Just wait for it friends, it’ll be there in a moment; that increased joyful presence of the Lord that we just prayed for, because the Lord always answers prayers for an increase of His presence in our souls, minds, spirits and bodies. He just cannot refuse such a request because it so warms the cockles of His heart when His most wonderful creation, mankind, seeks more of Him. It’s His greatest joy, because great intimacy is what He created us for.
And I like how this commentary succinctly but very nicely explains why God made us. ‘He created people out of LOVE for the purpose of sharing LOVE. People were created to LOVE God and each other. Additionally, when God created people, He gave them good work to do so that they might experience God’s goodness and reflect his image in the way they care for the world and for each other.’
And that’s it in a nutshell my fellow believers; God made us out of the deep LOVE of His magnificent and awesome Being, to share LOVE with Him and with others! Yes, LOVE is our number ONE purpose on this earth. That’s why the Greatest Commandment is as Jesus says: 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 friends, everything in this world is supposed to hang on God’s greatest attribute – LOVE! That’s why Bruh Paul could so assuredly write thus to the church at Corinth: ‘And now abideth faith, hope, charity (LOVE), these three; but the greatest of these is charity (LOVE).’ (1 Cor. 13:13) And there’s no doubting that statement my brethren, LOVE is indeed the greatest of all emotions.
However, that then brings this rather disturbing question to the forefront. Why is our world so filled with hate, anger and self-loathing instead of the LOVE that God made us to enjoy and share with Him and with our fellow man? If you were a new visitor to our planet, you would certainly believe that things like hate and anger, resentment and strife are the most important things. LOVE would never cross your mind as being important, since it’s not very significant in our current society.
No wonder our society is quickly falling apart, because those negative emotions and sentiments are rampant all over our world, and they tear things apart, while LOVE draws us together. God made us to live together through LOVE, but Satan’s ensuring that we fall apart through his hate, deceit, lies and ungodly attitudes.
But yuh know what my fellow saints, we have the antidote for all that Satan’s choses or desires to bring against us; the LOVE and wonderful promises of Almighty God. However, like all antidotes, they won’t work unless we apply them to the negative situations. That means gaining more LOVE for God, ourselves and our fellow man, through prayer, and meditation on God’s Word, then spreading it far and wide, putting it into practice just like Satan put’s his evil works into practice.
And we can certainly do it, because Christ has given us the necessary tools to do so. But first, we have to let go of our fear of what man can do to us, and instead pump up our courage that comes from God. Remember these reassuring words from Bruh Paul to Timothy: ‘For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.’ (2 Tim. 1:7)
That means by being the salt of the earth and the light of the world like Jesus desires of us, we can turn this world around. It might take some time because it’s so far gone, but remember too, that nothing’s impossible to God and those who sincerely believe in Him! So let’s go home now with those powerful thoughts in mind, and let’s ponder them long and hard, and hopefully come to the conclusion that we will get up and fight the good fight of faith and turn things around, all in Jesus’ strong and mighty name! Much LOVE!
…only as there is an excess of godly LOVE over hate…will our world ever prosper and succeed…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
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