Today’s Scrip-Bit 1 June 2014 Ecclesiastes 3:4

01 Jun 2014 Leave a comment

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

Ecclesiastes 3:4.      A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.

Oh Friends, can you believe it’s already the first of June? Wow! Half the year has already gone by, and it seems like it was just yesterday we celebrated Christmas and New Year’s, and it’s almost time to celebrate them again. Hn, Hn, Hn!

Yeh mih breddren, the days are quickly flying by, and thus we have no time to lose in getting our affairs with Jesus fixed right, since He can return at any time, and if we’re found wanting, then crapaud smoke we pipe. And we obviously don’t want that to happen, so please let’s get smart and get right with Him nuh mih people.

On a point of interest, not because I haven’t been on our case to see if and how we are adhering to our New Year’s resolution to follow Christ more completely, means that you shouldn’t review it yourself on a periodical basis. One of the functions of a believer is to police him or herself without outside pressure. Anyway, I’m going to take it for granted that we are indeed improving our faith walk. I refuse to believe that we could be backsliding! (smile)

And in light of all that, here’s a rather appropriate and interesting quote from Arnold Glasow (1905-1998), an American author and humorist. Arnold says that: ‘Laughter is a tranquilizer with no side effects.’ And that’s quite true – except for the stitches in your side and the tears you shed when you laugh too much.

And to back up Arnold’s theory, here are some thoughts from my One More Day Daily Devotional for People with Chronic Illness. ‘Unlike medicine, laughter costs us nothing, and can be partaken of as often as we see fit… A good, hearty laugh is therapy for our minds and bodies. Mirthful laughter can cause a remarkable feeling of well-being and joy. Laughter loosens all the cares and woes of the day and makes them somehow easier to bear.’

And all of that Friends in indisputable truth! But unfortunately laughter has become less prevalent in our current society, than it was just a few years ago. Today we’re all so busy, concerned and anxious about our lives and livelihood, especially with the depressing economic times, that we find it difficult to laugh much and make laughter a treasured part of our lives.

But Friends, as the Preacher tells us in our Bit, there is ‘A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.’

However, it seems like we’re doing way too much weeping and mourning, when we should be instead laughing and dancing. Oh Friends, weeping and mourning very seldom help the situation. They don’t ease our troubles and woes. But laughter and dancing do. They might not solve our problems, but they surely do make us feel better, bring a more positive attitude to our perception, which in turn helps us to better solve those same problems.

And Jesus did tell us in the Beatitudes: ‘Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh.’ (Luke 6:21b)

Likewise, Isaiah, in talking about Israel’s eventual return to Zion declared: ‘And the ransomed of the Lord shall return to Zion with songs and everlasting joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.’ (Is.35:10) Now Isaiah felt that verse so keenly that he reiterated it in chapter 51:11, when he talks about the faithful are called to courage.

And that’s another bit of gospel truth there Friends. To be truly faithful to serving and worshipping Jesus, we need to be very courageous, for walking with Him causes all sorts of stuff to come out of the woodwork at us.

But the psalmist greatly reassures us by steadfastly proclaiming: ‘They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth (to and fro) and weepeth, bearing precious seed (a bag of seed for sowing), shall doubtless come again with rejoicing (shouts of joy), bringing his sheaves with him.’ (Ps.126:5-6)

Oh my fellow believers, that brings to mind the joyful hymn that says: ‘Bringing in the sheaves, bringing in the sheaves. We shall come rejoicing bringing in the sheaves!’

It’s obvious my people that Jesus wants us to have a good, pleasant and happy life overall. That’s why He came and died for us.’I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.’ (John 10:10b) And having abundant life certainly doesn’t mean more weeping and mourning and sorrow and tears, than dancing and laughing and joy.

And we’ll end with two very important scripture passages that uphold that theory. This deals with the numberless multitude when Jesus ascends His throne. ‘They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on (strike) them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed (shepherd) them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears (every tear) from their eyes.’ (Rev.7:16-17)

And if you didn’t believe those verses, (smile) then try these: ‘And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.’ (Rev.21:3-5)

Oh my people, my people, yuh see what a wonderful future we have to look forward to! So please, let’s stop with all the sorrow and mourning nuh, and get some more joy and laughter into us, for that’s why Jesus came to earth and sacrificed His sinless life: so that we could enjoy a rebirth, a reconciliation with the Father. Hn! And if that isn’t great cause for joy and laughter and celebration, then I don’t know what is! Much LOVE!

…laughing openly and spontaneously…will always make me feel better… (From One More Day Devotional for People with Chronic Illness).

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 31 May 2014 Philippians 4:13

31 May 2014 Leave a comment

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

Philippians 4:13.   I can do all things through Christ which

strengtheneth me.

Oh Friends, another cultural icon has gone home to rest in Paradise after bearing the unholy pangs of this earthly life. I’m talking about Maya Angelou (1928-2014), the wonderful female American author, activist, educator, poet and actress, who died a couple days ago.

 

And believe me, hers was not an easy journey, definitely not an easy pilgrimage. But how could it ever be when you grow up Black in the racist white southern states of America in the early twentieth century eh?

 

And to make matters worse, you’re stubborn and ornery enough to marry a white Greek man, when interracial marriage was so strongly condemned, and even banned in some states. But such was the perseverance, the belly and backbone of Maya Angelou, that she stood her bounce and did her own thing, regardless of the racial problems. 

 

 

Obviously she paid for thumbing her nose at society, white society at that. But just like Nelson Mandela, who spent 27 years in prison, so too Maya, in the long run was vindicated, thereby proving that it was indeed possible to live life the way you saw and wanted it, provided you were willing to put up with the hard knocks it brought.

 

Eventually, her writings and her activism earned her numerous rewards, accolades, the LOVE and appreciation of a grateful public. Somehow or other though, I never became a big fan of Maya. Don’t ask me why, because I can’t say. She was indeed a good and prolific writer, but her overall work never thrilled me. Some of her stuff I did like, but when everybody was raving over her, I was just lukewarm. 

 

And I know that some of you might consider that heresy, (smile) but that’s just the way it is. I suspect too, that since some of her stuff that I read earlier on didn’t move me, I never had the inclination to delve deeply into her works. And it’s obvious that she didn’t suffer any lack for my not being her fan. (smile)

 

Anyway Friends, she was a refreshing and reassuring voice in the midst of a bigoted society. And she did stand up to all her detractors, like her forefathers did. And her life exemplified the saying that the Godfather of Soul, Papa James Brown made famous: ‘I’m Black and I’m proud!’

 

Unfortunately though, after some four hundred years, that is something a lot of Black people still have to put into practice. But then too, nobody can stand up to the rigours of racism, oppression and suppression without the help of Jesus!

 

As Bruh Paul so succinctly but wisely and truthfully says it in our Bit: ‘I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.’

 

And please believe me Friends, that’s the gospel, gospel truth! I’m sure people like Maya and Mandela could not have suffered the persecution they did, yet stand up to it and succeed in their efforts without strong faith in our omnipotent God. And if they could do it, when it was so much harder and dangerous, then so can we, my people, in these less risky times.

 

But we have to put the utmost faith in Jesus, which sadly, too many of us are refusing to do. And you know, before even Bruh Paul wrote those immortal words to the Philippians, Jesus Himself said them, or rather intimated as much. Listen, as He teaches the disciples through the story of the vine and the branches.

 

‘I am the true (genuine) vine, and my Father is the husbandman (vinedresser). Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth (prunes) it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through (because of) the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you.

 

As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.’ (John 15:1-5)

 

Oh Friends, that last statement is so profound and undeniably true, that every time we read it, we ought to stop and ponder the absolute truth it represents! Without Jesus, we can truly do nothing! Yet still, we foolishly try to live this life in our own strength.

 

Oh my brethren, when are we going to wake up and realize and acknowledge that fact eh, and then begin living for and through Jesus? Please remember that Jesus’ second coming is imminent; it could be today or tomorrow, and once He returns, all bets are off, there’ll be no longer any repenting and coming to salvation.

 

So if we’re smart, we’d jump on His bandwagon RIGHT NOW! We’d jump on the glory train that’s bound for heaven and getting closer with every powerful chug of its engine.

 

Oh my people, let’s stop being unwise nuh, stop listening to the lies and the deceit propagated by this evil and ungodly world, and grab hold of Jesus and all He stands for before it’s too late. Remember that the Father doesn’t even want to lose one single one of His greatest creation, mankind, to the master of darkness, Beelzebub.

 

And the Father has already done His part; provide Jesus as our saving grace. Now it’s up to us to receive that saving grace, believe in it, and put it into practice in our daily lives, because it’s wisdom from heaven above! Much LOVE!

 

…oh how it’s going to hurt the Father’s heart…when He looks out of heaven…and sees so many of His finest creation…woefully on the outside looking in…and there’ll be no one to blame but ourselves…

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 24 May 2014 Proverbs 17:1

24 May 2014 Leave a comment

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

Proverbs 17:1.     Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than a house full of sacrifices with strife.

Oh Friends, the ole fella’s physically tired this Saturday morning… but the brain is as quick-witted as ever! (smile) And that’s no thanks to me, but to our heavenly Father. In His vast wisdom, He’s enabling my mental faculties so that I can write a decent Bit, glorifying His Holy Name. And my humble response to that is a lusty: ‘Glory Hallelujah!’
 
And what do we have on tap for this glorious day eh? Well good stuff as usual. And today we’re going to talk about the family, starting with this quote attributed to Randall Jarrell (1914-1965), an American, poet, author and literary critic. Here is Randall’s observation: ‘The dark, uneasy world of family life – where the greatest can fail and the humblest succeed.’
 
Words of indisputable truth my brethren! For we all know supposedly great and successful people in the world in various professions and walks of life with very terrible family histories.
 
Success in the world doesn’t automatically transfer to success in family life, but more often than not success in family life can translate into a successful walk in the world. That’s because when a family is tight, is standing together and supporting each other, without petty resentments and jealousies, then the individuals are free to rise up without the weight of those negative emotions.
 
How many wealthy families are brought to their knees by poor family relationships eh? Countless numbers!
 
Now that doesn’t necessarily mean that poor families are always a tight knit and supportive group either. But it is possible for poor families to have very strong relationships. It just goes to show that material wealth doesn’t always mean good family ties. In fact it’s usually the opposite.
 
I guess a lot of that can be attributed to the fact that we choose our friends, while God chooses our family for us. Unfortunately we don’t have much choice in the situation, so we just have to put up with whom He’s given us, or, as so often happens, live estranged and hateful family lives.
 
No wonder, Cousin Sol in our Bit, so wisely and warily informs us: ‘Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than a house full of sacrifices (sacrificial meals or feasting) with strife.’
 
And that’s the living truth my people! However, in these modern times where the family is no longer the bulwark, the strong fortress of our society, strife is sadly rampant in too many of our families. The dysfunctional family seems to be more the norm today than the exception. It certainly seems as though Jesus’ statements, re signs of the end times, are coming true.
 
Mark puts it this way: ‘Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.’ (Mark 13:12)
 
Meanwhile Luke says it thus: ‘And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolk, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.’ (Luke 21:16)
 
Oh Friends, how true that is in this ever more strife torn world. Families are falling apart daily because of the stress and strain being put on them by this busy, ungodly world. So where are we to find help eh my people?
 
Cousin Sol gives us an idea: ‘Better is little with the fear of the Lord, than great treasure and trouble therewith.’ (Prov.15:16) Now that’s the gospel truth! Only in strong, serious and sincere communion with Almighty God can families withstand the pressure to fight and strive against each other in these treacherous times.
 
As the scholars in great wisdom tell us: ’15:16. Spiritual riches are better than material riches.’
 
Oh Friends and fellow believers, I know that many of you don’t think so, and thus are still striving after much material wealth, but please stand back for a moment and take a look at what that is doing to your family life nuh.
 
If you’re constantly working that means you don’t have much time for your family, and you’re continually stressed, short-tempered and irascible. Some members of your family might even be afraid to approach you on important matters because of those negative elements. And relentlessly pursuing your material dreams will undoubtedly affect your health at some stage of the game.
 
And what will you have to show for it then eh? Just a few material things, but nobody to console you. As somebody once said, when our time comes to go to the other side, we don’t ask to see our possessions nuh, we ask to see people. Whichever way you cut it my brethren, seeking material gain above all else is a fool’s wisdom. Please get that buried deep in your conscience.
 
And all those materially wealthy people, those who built great empires at the cost of a poor family life, where are they now? Either sick and suffering and lonely somewhere, fighting with family over their possessions. Or they have passed on to the next side and left the much prized possessions for the family to fight over, and foolishly have most of it end up in the hands of greedy and crooked lawyers.
 
You see and hear about those kinds of stories every day, but yet still we run behind the things of the world, rather than the things of God. Let’s wake up and smell the roses nuh my people, and stop running down the inferior and destructible things of the world, and instead concentrate on storing up treasure in heaven, where moth nor rust can destroy it, nor thieves steal it.
 
And we’ll end with another wise saying from Cousin Sol on the subject. ‘Better is a dinner of herbs (vegetables) where LOVE is, than a stalled ox (fatted calf) and hatred therewith.’ (Prov.15:17)
 
That’s indeed heavenly wisdom Friends, so let’s try and attain unto it today nuh. Much LOVE!
 
…only through a return to godly family life…can we ever hope to fuel the LOVE Revolution…and right our wrong leaning world…

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 23 May 2014 Proverbs 11:14

23 May 2014 Leave a comment

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

Proverbs 11:14.   Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.

And finally it was Friday… Glory Hallelujah! At long last the big day – the harbinger of the weekend is here! And all work shall cease, and the people shall rest their weary souls and bodies from slaving for massa!

And a loud cheer went up from the workers: ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday!’

Yes Friends, let’s thank our great and wonderful God that it’s not only Friday, but a new day! A new day of life has been granted to us here on planet earth, where His blessings, mercies and forgiveness will pour down on us, as He so generously does, each and every day!

And all God’s people declared a loud and grateful: ‘Praise the Lord! Amen!’

Now to continue bolstering our spirits this Friday morning, let’s chant our Friday Chant with much sincerity. ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through another week of work! It hasn’t been easy, but with your generous help, I made it through.

Now, please help me to get sufficient fun, fellowship, rest and relaxation in these two short days off, so that I can be renewed and refreshed in soul, body and mind, to go back out and do it all over again next week, furthering your glorious kingdom with each step I take. I pray this in Jesus name. Amen.’

Yes my people, please let that be our guide for handling the weekend, for those two simple days off are very important in the general scope of our lives. How we handle them will dictate and determine what our new workweek will generally be like. So if you want to have a good workweek, you have to begin with a good weekend. End of sermon! (smile)

Now let’s see what our Bit has to say. ‘Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.’

What undeniable wisdom Friends! For as the scholars tell us: ’11:14. The wise man gets advice from many people of good judgement before making a decision.’

However my brethren, there is one caveat, or rather two caveats to that statement, as well as our Bit. The first thing to beware of is advice from ‘many people.’

The problem there is that advice from too many people tends to be overwhelming, sluggish and all over the place. Sometimes it’s also incomprehensible, simply because of the number of voices giving advice.

So we need to winnow, to scale down the number of our advisers to a select few; a handful, or not much more, so we won’t have too many voices and opinions ringing in our ears.

And the second, but even more important thing to be very careful of, is that we recruit people of ‘good judgement’ to give us advice. That’s the crux of the problem right there Friends! Too often we end up with people of poor judgement, even though they may be Christians.

Remember, not because someone claims to be a Christian that they possess sound judgement. Now it’s always desirous, or preferable to get advice from Christians with good sense, but the good judgement aspect is more important than the Christian part.

And we see the perfect example of this in the Good Book, in 1 Kings 12. At that time Cousin Sol’s son, Rehoboam was made king of Israel and the people came to plead with him for mercy, because Cousin Sol had laid a heavy yoke on them, in order to support his vast enterprises.

Unfortunately though, Rehoboam listened to the group of his peers, the young men, rather than the group of older and wiser men.

The latter advised patience and mercy: ‘And they spake unto him, saying, If thou wilt be a servant unto this people this day, and wilt serve them, and answer them, and speak good words to them, then they will be thy servants for ever.

But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him, and which stood before him. And he said unto them, What counsel give ye that we may answer to this people, who have spoken to me, saying, Make the yoke which thy father did put upon us lighter?

And the young men that were grown up with him, spake unto him saying, Thus shalt thou speak unto this people that spake unto thee, saying, Thy father made our yoke heavy, but make thou it lighter unto us; thus shalt thou say unto them, My little finger shall be thicker than my father’s loins.

And whereas my father did lade you with a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke: my father hath chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.’ (1 Kin.12:7-11)

And the scholars give us this info: ’12:11. Scorpions means the multi-tailed whips to which barbed points or hooks were attached. Their sting was as severe as that of a scorpion.’

Ah Lord eh! Man’s inhumanity to man is surely a great instrument of moaning and mourning!

The long and short of the story though Friends, is that Rehoboam cracked the whip even harder than his father did, because of advice from people with poor judgement. And their advice was bad, not necessarily because they were young, because the young can be wise and the aged unwise.

But obviously they were revelling in their youth, their wealth and new-found power. And believe me Friends, those latter two things, wealth and power can work very negatively in the hands of the young, can cause them to bring destruction on themselves and those they rule or advise.

And what happens eventually? Like it always does when people are oppressed beyond measure. Israel rebelled, overthrew Rehoboam and replaced him with Jeroboam. Rehoboam lost it all because of a lack of common sense and mercy on his and his young advisers part.

So my brethren, I surely hope that this teaches us a valuable lesson. For as Cousin Sol declares later on in Proverbs: ‘Without counsel purposes are disappointed (plans go awry): but in the multitude of counselors they are established.’ (Prov.15:22)

It’s indisputable truth! But again my people, please beware of that word ‘multitude,’ and make sure that your advisers are people, preferably Christians, of sound judgement. That’s wisdom of the highest order! Much LOVE!

…the way of a fool is right in his own eyes…but he that hearkeneth to counsel…is wise… (Prov.12:15)  

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 21 May 2014 Luke 21:19

21 May 2014 Leave a comment

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

Luke 21:19.  In your patience possess ye your souls.
 

‘Wednesday, oh Wednesday, oh glorious Wednesday – the middle of the week! A bright light at the end of the tunnel! That means the weekend is near! Glory Hallelujah!’
 
Yeh Friends, it’s not only on Fridays we should celebrate, but if possible, everyday of the week, for it tells us that we’re alive and kicking through the generous bounty of our great and wonderful God!
 
And all God’s people declared a loud and grateful: ‘Thank You heavenly Father for allowing us to see another blessed day on planet earth! We bless you and praise Your Holy Name and promise to walk as worthily as we can in the name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ! Amen.’
 
Ah mih people, it does feel great to be alive, doesn’t it? It surely does! Despite all the pains, the setbacks, the misfortunes, the trials the tribulations, I don’t think many of us would prefer to be dead.
 
We complain a lot about the negatives in this life, but remember it’s the only one we have, and furthermore, the only one we’ll ever get. So let’s enjoy it nuh, especially when we have such a wonderful faith like Christianity to live it under.
 
Remember what Jesus said in our Bit: ‘In your patience possess ye your souls.’
 
And if we don’t listen to Him and follow His wonderful example, we’ll just be wasting our God-given lives. And that would be such a tragedy!
 
And for the last day, I’ll like to bombard us with more scripture that teaches patience, perseverance, endurance, backbone and belly. (smile) No my brethren, you don’t have to tell me, for I know from personal experience, that it’s not easy, a bed of roses, working for and walking in Jesus’ footsteps, but it sure is exciting and interesting!
 
And you’ll never know how interesting and exciting it is, until YOU give it a try!
 
It’s all about a significant leap of faith Friends! A leap I enjoin us all to sincerely take today, right now, so that we can all work together to make this world a better place.
 
For that is what we were commanded to do by our leader, Jesus Christ: SPREAD the Word all over the world; LIVE our lives in true Faith, and above all, SHOW LOVE to our magnanimous and magnificent God and also our neighbours!
 
Wow! What an awesome mandate! Now let’s hear some scripture that’s supposed to encourage, uplift, exhort and keep us steadfast and strong in our earthly endeavours for Jesus.
 
Let’s start with Bruh Paul’s message to the Colossians, where he’s talking about prayer for spiritual wisdom: ‘For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 
 
(Scholars note: Wisdom is an accurate perception into the true nature of things. Understanding is the skilful application of his wisdom in practical situations).
 
That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
 
(Scholars’ note: Patience is persevering through problems, trials, tribulations and so forth. Longsuffering is forbearing the faults and offences of others).
 
Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet (qualified us) to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in (the) light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated (transferred) us into the kingdom of his dear Son (the Son of His LOVE).’ (Col.1:9-13)
 
And the Scholars’ note in verse 12: ‘Light is the ethical condition in which God’s children live, namely, that of spiritual understanding with its accompanying morality and happiness.’  
 
Ah Friends, as I said above, it’s not easy, but working for Jesus is surely interesting! Now here these rich and encouraging verses from Hebrews 12, which we all know, but refuse to take seriously.
 
‘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 (originator) and finisher (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 (discouraged) in your minds (souls).’ (Heb.12:1-3)
 
Yes mih people, we find the best examples of it all in Jesus!
 
And the scholars’ have this to say: ’12:2. Just as verse 1 establishes some qualities for the entrance into and the actual running of life’s race, so verse 2 directs one’s eyes to the finish line. Jesus is the author and finisher in that He has already blazed the trail and finished the course.
 
12:3-4. Though chapter 11 provides many champions for believers to emulate, the supreme example of endurance is Jesus Himself.’
 
And isn’t that the gospel, gospel truth my brethren! His is a very difficult, and possibly impossible example for most of us to emulate, but try we must. Don’t worry though, our God knows exactly what we are capable of, for He made us, and all He really expects of us is a sincere effort in our daily living.
 
And if we give that sincere effort, then He will help us to mature and grow in the image of His Son. For remember, our wonderful God doesn’t ever give us more than we can bear. And even then, He’s promised to work out everything for our good, when we’re called to do His bidding.
 
So there’s no need to worry and fret, for our heavenly Father has us in the palms of His hands, plenty better hands than All State, and will never leave nor forsake us. Ah mih breddren, what a marvellous and magnificent Deity we serve and worship! He’s just so phenomenal! I can’t understand how His human creations choose not to work for and follow His directives.
 
But we His true followers WILL change that won’t we? For sure, as we go about doing good, spreading His Word and living a life of Christian faith, celebrated with joy, peace and LOVE! Now that’s true wisdom!
 
And we’ll end here for today. You already have much scripture to ponder and meditate upon, so I won’t burden you with any more. I’m so kind and thoughtful, aren’t I. (smile) Please have a blessed day my brethren, walking in LOVE for Jesus! Much LOVE!
 
…better is the end of a thing…than the beginning thereof…and the patient in spirit…is better than…the proud in spirit…  (Eccl.7:8)

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 20 May 2014 Luke 21:19

20 May 2014 Leave a comment

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

Luke 21:19.    In your patience possess ye your souls.

 

Oh Friends, the party’s over! Yeh, like the man said, it’s time to call it a day and get back to labouring. (smile) So all you people who were fortunate enough to have yesterday off in honour of Queen Victoria, please get it together and get out there today and work hard for Jesus, like the rest of us, provided you didn’t overdo the partying yesterday.

And even if you did overdo it, then just suck it up and do what needs to be done, regardless of your physical feelings. I’m sure you didn’t have any qualms about anything when you were living it up yesterday, so please don’t have any today when Jesus is counting on you to be His ears, arms, eyes and heart in an ungodly world which badly needs His LOVE and encouragement.

And now that you’ve been suitably admonished, (smile) let’s get down to brass tacks here ourselves, and with the guidance of our great God, write something that’s inspiring and encouraging.

And in seeking something inspiring to begin, I found these words of encouragement from one of my favourite writers and preachers, Dr. Robert H. Schuller.

Listen closely Friends and fellow believers. Dr. Schuller tells us that ‘The joy of being at the top of the mountain is the joy of reaching down to help others see and develop their (own) possibilities.’

And what a riot of wisdom and truth that is my brethren! For what other purpose can their be at the top of the mountain if you’re a true and faithful follower of Jesus eh?

None really my people! Because that’s what Jesus did every day of His life; go about doing good, helping and healing people, and if we want to truly follow in his footsteps then we need to do the same. Yes my fellow believers that is our mandate; to help the needy, in all walks of life, in whatever way we are able!

But just as our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, didn’t have it easy, we won’t have it easy either. There will always be trials and tribulations to face as our God tests us, and the heathen, the unbeliever and evil powers of this world try to break down our faith.

But as Jesus so wisely says in our Bit: ‘In your patience posses ye your souls.’

And that’s more awesome truth Friends! For it’s only if we settle down without fear and anxiety and accept the promises of Jesus and stand fast and strong on them that we will grow and mature in out faith walk and thus further His glorious kingdom.

And today again I want to fill our minds, hearts, souls, bodies and wherever else (smile) with more encouraging and uplifting scriptures on patience, perseverance and endurance, while walking steadfastly in faith with Jesus.

Now let’s start with some beautiful heartfelt words from Bruh David. Yeh, you can call me biased because I LOVE to begin with Bruh David and end with Jesus. (smile)

Anyway listen to Bruh David as he declares praise for answered prayer from Psalm 40. ‘I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings (steps).

And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord. Blessed is the man that maketh the Lord his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.’ (Ps.40:1-4)

Oh my brethren, yuh see what can happen when we wait patiently on the Lord? Meanwhile Bruh Paul told it to the Romans this way when talking about the results of justification.

‘Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience (produces perseverance);

And patience, experience (character); and experience hope: And hope maketh not ashamed (does not disappoint); because the LOVE of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.’ (Rom.5:1-5)

Ah Friends what a moving and touching scripture; one that we all know, but resist following because we’re afraid of trials and tribulations. But if we don’t experience some misfortune and suffering, then we won’t grow in the LOVE and reflection of Jesus.

And to show that it’s all gospel truth, James, in his epistle, tells it to us this way. ‘My brethren, count it all joy when we fall into divers temptations (various trials); Knowing this, that the trying (testing) of your faith worketh (produces) patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire (complete), wanting (lacking) nothing.’ (James 1:2-4)

And as the scholars so wisely remind us: ‘1:4. The natural response to adversity is to escape it. But God uses trouble to mature His people.’

And as we all know, but fear and refuse to accept, that’s undeniable truth! For it’s only when we’re under fire, that the real us comes forth, we find out what we’re truly made of, and how much we truly LOVE and desire to work for Jesus.

Anyway Friends, I think we’ll end there because I don’t want to give us too much scripture to ponder at anyone sitting. See how I consider your busy lives! (smile)

So in light of all that’s been said above, let’s go out today and do as Jesus did everyday of His earthly sojourn: help the hurting and the needy, despite our hurts and needs, thus reflecting the true character of Jesus. That’s wisdom from on high! Much LOVE!

…sympathy comes from the mind…but empathy comes from the heart…through personal experience…




Today’s Scrip-Bit 18 May 2014 Luke 21:19

18 May 2014 Leave a comment

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

Luke 21:19.        In your patience possess ye your souls.

Oh Friends, oh Friends, on this Sunday morning in the middle of May, in a season we call spring time, when nature is refreshed and rejuvenated with new life and colour, please, oh please, let’s be eternally grateful and give loads of thanks for the fairly free society in which we live!
 
Once upon a time it was mostly a community based on the Christian faith, but in recent times it has morphed into one of many different, diverse faiths and cultures. However, we are still free to worship and believe in whom or what we choose. Unfortunately though, this is not the case for millions of our Christian brothers and sisters in many places around the world, who live under heinous authoritarian religious regimes.
 
Today I want to highlight the unfortunate plight of one such sister. The newspapers recently reported the awful situation of a 26 year old, eighth months pregnant Sudanese woman, who married a Christian man, and for that she was sentenced to death. Steups! And as always, it’s the women and children who suffer the most.
 
As the hypocritical patriarchal Muslim society in Sudan would have it, it’s okay for a Muslim man to marry outside of his faith, and the children must by law adopt the father’s religion. Chuh! However that largesse of faith does not apply to Muslim women. This unfortunate young woman was convicted of ‘apostasy’ because she refused to renounce her Christian faith. Glory Be!
 
She is paying though a rather hefty price for that refusal since the Sudanese penal code declares that Muslims converting to any other faith is a crime punishable by death. But it doesn’t seem that the young woman was ever Muslim, for although her father, a Muslim, married and Ethiopian Orthodox Christian and the law states that such children must adopt the father’s faith, her mother raised her as a Christian after the father left them.
 
Now she languishes in some sordid jail with her 18 month old son and her unborn child, awaiting her unfair fate. To make matters even more ridiculous and hypocritical, it seems that the court also ordered the young woman to receive a hundred (100) lashes. Why? For having what they considered sexual relations with her husband, a Christian from the new country of South Sudan, which is mostly Christian.
 
Ah Friends, I don’t even want to consider the hypocrisy, because it just makes me so angry that I tend to forget the LOVING-kindness principles of Jesus and desire revenge, or I should say justice (smile) in my heart. Oh I know that we Christians can be very hypocritical too, but hopefully not to that extent.
 
Let’s hope that an appeal is successfully lodged on the young woman’s behalf in the not too distant future. And to help right that wrongful situation, let’s all offer up some heartfelt prayers for her and the millions of other Christians around the world, who are suffering oppression, suppression and loads of injustice, simply because of their sensible and right thinking belief, faith, and trust in Jesus Christ, and the One and Only True and Living Deity, Jehovah God, He of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob! 
 
My fellow believers, please believe that there is indeed a very real, a very serious and a very deadly spiritual war that’s currently taking place, and we are at the forefront of it. Thus we need to be on our p’s and q’s; ever-ready to resist and fight back against the evil powers that now control this ungodly world.
 
What Jesus prophesied so long ago, as we saw in yesterday’s scriptures, is now coming to pass. ‘But before all these (signs), they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name’s sake. And it shall turn to you (be an occasion) for a testimony.’ (Luke 21:12-13)
 
Furthermore ‘And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers (authorities), take ye no thought (do not worry about) how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say. For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.’ (Luke 12:11-12)
 
It’s not going to be easy my people, but if we stand strong, steadfast and immovable on the promises of our wonderful Saviour, then we will eventually be victorious. Listen to this awesome promise of God’s Son. ‘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 that’s the gospel truth Friends! Jesus has indeed overcome the world. He’s conquered sin, death and the grave with His Easter Resurrection. So let’s take comfort, derive lasting peace from it, and show the world that we are stronger than anything they can throw at us, because we have the awesome power of the Holy Spirit of Jesus working in, for, and through us!
 
Note though, that despite all our assurances, we can’t afford to let down our guard for even one moment, because the evil one is lurking around, looking for even a toehold in our spiritual armour. But we do need to be patient and persevering as Jesus advises in our Bit. ‘In your patience possess ye your souls.’
 
Yes Friends, if we remain faithful, don’t give up, and keep pressing on, regardless of our adversity, then we shall indeed see ALL the promises of Jesus come to joyful fruition, and His church will be victorious!
 
So today, my fellow believers, let’s all flock to God’s house with joyful souls nuh, to pray, worship and give thanks for our many blessings and freedoms. For that is indeed the wisdom of heaven! Much LOVE!
 
 …the powers of evil and darkness…are no match whatsoever…for those of LOVE and goodness…found in the brilliant light of the world…our Lord and Saviour…Jesus Christ…
 
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 May 2014 Acts 10:38

10 May 2014 Leave a comment

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

Acts 10:38.      How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

Oh Friends, it’s another wonderful day in the life! And though our physical surroundings and our personal circumstances may not be ideal, there is always one thing we can count on; that’s the joy of Jesus, His Holy Spirit dwelling in our souls! Oh glory be, my people!
 
Yes Friends, there’s a certain peace and joy that comes into our souls when Jesus, when His Holy Spirit takes up official and permanent residence there. It’s a feeling like no other that can be felt on God’s great earth! So let’s hope you have Jesus dwelling in you full time, so you can enjoy His rest and peace, and the easy yoke and light burdens He places on us.
 
And if unfortunately you don’t have the Holy Spirit of Jesus living within you Friends, than I strongly suggest you go and get Him, because without Him, you are missing out on the most enjoyable times that a human being can have on this earth. And that’s no lie, but gospel truth!
 
Anyway my people, today is going to be a day filled with scripture; we going to just revel in the Word! (smile) We’re going to dissect our Bit: ‘How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.’
 
Now there are basically three parts to that scripture. The first is ‘How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power:’ And how did all of that come about? Well it all began with Isaiah’s declaration of good tidings of salvation to Zion.
 
‘The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath appointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek (poor); he hath sent me to bind up (heal) the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;
 
To appoint unto (console) them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.’ (Is.61:1-3)
 
There Isaiah is continuing his prophecy of a king, Christ, coming to save His people. And we all know that for every significant prophesy, there is usually a fulfillment. So here is that fulfillment. Jesus is born, incarnated as a man, lives as a man, undergoing all that that entails, then begins His earthly ministry.
 
Then comes that fateful day when He returns to His hometown of Nazareth: ‘and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up for to read. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised (oppressed),
 
To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister (attendant), and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him, and he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears (hearing).’ (Luke 4:16-21)
 
Now there seems to be some contention amongst the scholars as to whether Jesus stopped reading at that particular point because ‘the day of vengeance’ (final judgement), which refers to His Second Coming had not yet arrived, or He just read those lines to excite the minds of His listeners, re the whole promise filled chapter of Isaiah 61.
 
Whatever the reason, it’s clear He did get through to them, although later on they became rather unhappy with Him, so much so that they threatened to throw Him over a cliff at the edge of town. (Luke 4:29) And as He so aptly told them: ‘Verily, I say unto you, No prpohet is accepted in his own country. (Luke 4:24) And that’s the veritable truth!
 
Now here is an enlightening comment from the scholars on verse 16: ‘4:16. This is the oldest known description of a synagogue service. There would be prayers, both public and private, a sermon if someone suitable were on hand to deliver one, and several readings from the Old Testament. Here Jesus functions as a reader.’
 
Ah mih people, I believe I should also share this info from the scholars on verse 18, since it is so revealing and educational. (smile) It deals with the Holy Spirit in the Life of Christ. ‘4:18. Although Jesus was God during His earthly life and ministry, He still recognized His dependence upon the ministry of the Holy Spirit. This was particularly necessary in view of His humiliation in the Incarnation. So intimate was the relationship between Christ and the Holy Spirit that in the New Testament He is viewed as endued with the power of the Holy Spirit.
 
Illustration: Specifically, the New Testament recognizes the ministry of the Holy Spirit in Christ’s incarnation (Heb.10:5), birth (Matt.1:18), growth (Luke 2:40 ,52), baptism (Luke 3:21-22), temptation (Luke 4:.14), ministry (Luke 4:18-19), miracles (Matt.12:28), death (Heb.9:14), resurrection (Rom.8:11), and glorification (John 16:14).
 
Application: The Lord recognized His need to have such an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit, which in turn emphasizes the Christian’s need to be filled with the Holy Spirit. (Eph.5:18). (First Ref. Luke 3:22; Primary Ref. Luke 4; cf. John 16:8).’ 
 
Ah mih people, plenty scriptures to look up, but please do check them out, for they are quite interesting and will undoubtedly increase our understanding of God’s Word. But that’s enough for today, don’t want to wear out my welcome by giving your busy minds too much heavy stuff to inculcate. (smile)
 
So please read, mark and inwardly digest the stuff we’ve talked about today, so that the joy which comes from knowing Jesus will remain in our hearts, forever and ever. Amen. Much LOVE!
 
…for the joy of the Lord is our strength… (Neh. 8:10)…and no one can take it away from us…unless we let them…
 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 5 May 2014 Psalm 56:9

05 May 2014 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 56:9.    When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.

Oh Friends, it’s a brand new day – Monday! And much to my surprise, there wasn’t as much hissing and sour invective thrown my way. And I gratefully thanked God that His people were finally getting the idea that Monday was a day to be celebrated, not cursed. (smile)

And Friends, do I ever have a good quote for us today – one that’s so appropriate that it will knock your proverbial socks off! When I read it, I couldn’t help but chuckle, and immediately knew that I had to share it.
 
It comes from my old Devotional for People with Chronic Illness, and is attributed to one Elise Maclay. From the info available, I believe the Elise Maclay we’re talking about was an author of successful books like ‘Green Winter, and the Art of Bev Doolittle’ published in the 1970’s.
 
Anyway, she reputedly said, ‘…I was the breadwinner. Only I didn’t WIN the bread, I worked hard and earned it.’
 
And isn’t that the gospel truth my people! We don’t win the bread, we get up off our rear ends and work hard for it! And that’s exactly what this first Monday morning in May 2014 is calling for! So let’s get up and get a move on nuh, let’s get out into the evil and ungodly world that awaits us and do our damndest, our best for Jesus! Remember Jesus desires and expects excellence from His followers!
 
And to help us do that, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn with plenty moxie. As one great choir now: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together.
 
We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies.
 
But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle.
 
Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’
 
Aw shucks Friends, that rendition was the greatest nuh, it only raised polite clapping from the heavenly hosts! Anyway, I’ll chalk it up to our still being somewhat sleepy, and assume that by the time we get ready to hit the road, the Holy Spirit will have caused us to be in full Christian bloom. (smile)
 
Now let’s look at our Bit for this beautiful spring morning. ‘When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.’
 
Words of indisputable truth my brethren! Faithfully proven after they were sent heavenward, by Bruh David’s eventual escape from the Philistines at Gath and his mortal enemy, Saul!
 
That’s why Friends, it both amazes and disappoints me that Christians don’t use prayer more often, despite claiming to be so in touch and in tune with God. If we look at the lives of all the great people of faith, one common thread stands out above all else; their great dependence on and use of prayer.
 
Even Jesus, God incarnate, didn’t make a move without talking to His heavenly Father. So why are we so ashamed, afraid, and reluctant to pray eh? Is it that we don’t truly believe in the efficacy and effectiveness of prayer?
 
James spells it out in spades for us: ‘Confess your faults (trespasses) one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual (effective) fervent prayer (supplication) of a righteous man availeth much.’ (James 5:16)
 
Oh my people, it’s time for us to wake up to the true and very awesome power of prayer! When we cry out to God in sincere prayer, He hears us and answers. Listen to how Bruh David puts it in Psalm 118; Thanksgiving for the Lord’s salvation.
 
‘I called upon the Lord in distress: the Lord answered me, and set me in a large (broad) place. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? The Lord taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. (Per the scholars, that’s the middle verse of the Bible) It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes.’ (Ps.118:5-9)
 
More words of indisputable truth Friends! And we know it. So why don’t we adhere to them eh? Ah Lord eh! I guess only the Lord in His high heaven really knows why we are the stubborn and unwise way we are yes!
 
And we’ll go home with some immortal words of advice, of heavenly wisdom from Bruh Paul to the Roman Church, words which we all know, but don’t follow as closely or rely on as we should.
 
‘What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?’ (Rom. 8:31-32)
 
Yes Friends, if the omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent God, Creator and Controller of the universe and all therein is in our corner, then who can successfully challenge us eh? NOBODY!
 
So please let’s not only plant that true, wonderful seed deep in our souls, but let’s also act on it today, by stepping up our prayer lives and calling out to our heavenly father, at ALL times, and for ALL things! That’s what he sincerely desires, and it’s also the epitome of wisdom, my people! Much LOVE!
 
…it’s foolish, unwise, and a downright lie…to claim to be a Christian…and not be thoroughly immersed in the Word of God and sincere prayer…

 

 

 
 
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 1 May 2014 Jeremiah 16:12

01 May 2014 Leave a comment

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

Jeremiah 16:12.   And ye have done worse than your fathers; for, behold, ye walk every one after the imagination (stubbornness) of his evil heart, that they may not hearken unto me.

Oh Friends, on this rainy Thursday morning, the first day of May 2014, I’ve been guided to remind us of two very important matters of immortal and everlasting truth! I’ve shared them before, but they belong to that group of sayings which need to be repeated every so often for us to get them fully centred in our consciousness.

 

The first statement of undeniable truth is this: ‘The Bible is God’s Word to us – still fresh through all the ages. And if we read it, we will find God’s wisdom on its pages!’ And the second statement follows from the first: ‘One truth from the Bible is worth more than all the wisdom of man!’

 

And there we have it my people! The Good Book is our everyday guide to life on this planet earth, but unfortunately, too many of us are too lazy to read it, or simply refuse to read it, for whatever reason, then we wonder why our individual lives and those of the majority of the world are in such a sad, disgraceful and disgusting mess.

 

Friends, the answer is simple; read your guidebook!

 

When we’re going on vacations and stuff, we’re always quick to read the brochures though, for they are done up in lots of colour and attractive styles giving us eye candy, stimulating our fleshly senses. However, the Bible, because it ‘s old and not as dazzling to the eyes and our fleshly senses, we find it difficult, even reprehensible to read!

 

Ah mih brethren, that is the most foolish thought we could ever have! It’s the wisdom of a fool! But sadly, it is the wisdom that predominates our evil and ungodly today!

 

How sad eh. And it’s not like there isn’t a long history of societies falling apart when they abandon God’s Word. There is! But man has become so proud and egotistical because of our supposed inventions and technologies, that we now consider ourselves wiser and more know it all than the omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent God who created us.

 

Steups! How foolish and ignorant that is my brethren! The created cannot become wiser and more powerful than the Creator! That’s more of Beelzebub’s creative advertising to which we’re falling, or rather, to which we have fallen victims.

 

Note the serious and numerous amounts of natural disasters that are taking place all around the world today. Check out the recent killer tornadoes that have just passed through the most sinful land in the world; the U.S. of A!

 

And I know some of you will take umbrage at that remark, but it is the gospel truth! If you truly check out the evil stuff that’s going on in America today, it will blow your mind away!

 

Remember, once upon America was the giant of the land! They were the Lord’s chosen people in the New World. Everything they touched turned to gold! Now they are a mere shadow of their former selves.

 

Oh yes, they still have their mighty war machine, but when last have they won a war eh? Not since the Second World War. Think of Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, etc. Despite all their firepower they can’t bring the supposed heathen to their knees. Why? Because they have become too sinful and ungodly.

 

Now listen to the Word of our God, just before our Bit, in the time of Jeremiah when His Chosen People, Israel were being disobedient to His Law.

 

‘And it shall come to pass, when thou shalt show this people all these words, (the disaster He planned to bring upon them and their land; vs.5-9) and they shalt say unto thee, Wherefore hath the Lord pronounced all this great evil (disaster) against us? or what is our iniquity? or what is our sin that we have committed against the Lord our God?

 

Then shalt thou say unto them, Because your fathers have forsaken me, saith the Lord, and have walked after other gods, and have served them, and have worshipped them, and have forsaken me, and have not kept my law.

 

And ye have done worse than your fathers; for, behold, ye walk every one after the imagination (stubbornness) of his evil heart, that they may not hearken unto me.’ (Jer.16:10-12)

 

And Friends, I’m ashamed to say that that’s the gospel, gospel, gospel truth! Our Fathers had their faults, but at least they paid plenty more attention to God’s Word than our generations has done… And may the Lord have mercy, but this generation we’re currently raising, they are even worse than us.

 

And we have no one to blame but ourselves, because we have raised them without the proper attention to God’s Word. We have not instilled the importance of the Good Book and its place of priority in their lives. Instead we have allowed Lucifer and His evil cohorts to indoctrinate them into the lusts of the flesh and the materialism of the world.

 

No wonder they don’t have a clue about the real realities of life, but constantly dwell in the unreal realm of virtual reality. The purveyors of greed, materialism and money LOVING have desensitized them to godly things like grace, mercy, truth, equal rights, justice, compassion, empathy, righteousness, wisdom, and all the other things we once held as priorities.

 

But they do know about blessings though, and expect to be blessed abundantly! They believe that the world owes them a living, and they don’t have to work or suffer any trials and tribulations to get to the top of the heap.

 

And sadly too Friends, along the way all our standards have fallen, fallen so low that now it’s much easier to make the grade. But even sadder my people, is that many aren’t able, can’t even make this low grade. It doesn’t say very much for our guardianship of God’s people and His other creations.

 

But the good news my brethren is that it’s not too late for us to turn this ship around! It’s not going to be easy, but as we all know, with God’s help, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE! That means we’ve got to get the Lord deeply involved in our situations if we want to have any success.

 

And what’s the most important word in the whole process? LOVE!

 

Yes my fellow believers, it’s LOVE that caused us to be created, it’s LOVE that caused us to be reconciled to God, and it’s LOVE that will help us right this evil world!

 

We all know what we have to do. So please, let’s get serious about our bounden duty nuh, let’s get the LOVE REVOLUTION truly ramped up and rolling, for we don’t have much time before Jesus returns, and once He comes again, it will be too late. Let’s get going in Jesus’ Name! Much LOVE!

 

…unless Western Society turns back to the God of their forefathers…they will suffer the same fate…as all the other heathen and disobedient societies…DESTRUCTION…

 

 

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