Romans 12:21: Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Ah mih people, welcome to another glorious day on God’s fabulous earth! And all true believers responded with a heartfelt, ‘Praise the Lord!’ Yes Friends, that’s what our Leader and Saviour wants us to do, under any and all circumstances. Regardless of how rough life might be, we are called upon to always give thanks and praise to the Father. As Bruh Paul says so poignantly in the verses before our Bit: ‘Recompense (repay) to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest (have regard for good things) in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in (depends on) you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: For in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.’ (Rom.12:17-20) Those are definitely tough rules to live by my people! But before going any further, let’s hear from the scholars; ‘Give place unto wrath: Paul quotes Deuteronomy 32:35 to show that only God has the right to avenge, and He certainly will avenge. Heap coals of fire on his head (cf. Prov.25:22): This may refer to a sense of shame or remorse engendered when we treat an evildoer kindly. Paul is discussing personal, not national enemies. He is not teaching pacifism.’ No Friends, Bruh Paul is certainly not teaching pacifism, which makes these rules even tougher to live by, because we then have to find a fine and healthy balance between completely giving in (pacifism), and taking matters into our own hands (vengeance). But to be true to our Christian faith, we must endeavour to live that way. And how do we do it? By focusing on our Bit: ‘Be not overcome of (by) evil, but overcome evil with good.’ By having that advice as our constant mantra, by writing it indelibly in our hearts and minds, we’ll be reminded that whenever evil shows its ugly face, we have to show a good one in response. Oh fellow believers, that’s not an easy task, especially in these cruel, greedy and evil times. But with all that Jesus asks us to do, so many of which are contrary to the mores of the world, He’s also given us all the tools necessary to accomplish them. Yes, in His LOVING-kindness, mercy and grace, He’s provided His Holy Spirit to guide and protect us, to help us live the kind of life He desires us to live. And with that wonderful Spirit indwelling us, plus things like our prayers, faith, patience, perseverance and fortitude, we can accomplish His will, overcoming the foolishness and folly of Lucifer’s wicked world. It’s up to us now Friends, to use those tools wisely, to be strong and sensible, using them to propagate good and not evil. Now the word I want to focus on today is ‘overcome.’ It’s one that conjures up thoughts of difficulties and hard times, but in the end winning the battle. Let’s listen to some scripture that encourages us to overcome, starting with John’s first epistle. ‘For this is the LOVE of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous (burdensome). For whatsoever (every believer who) is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?’ (1 John 5:3-5) The scholars explain that last verse thus: ‘There is conquering power through this confession because God is sovereign over the world, and only through the Son does man have access to and find favour with God.’ And all God’s people joyfully declared: ‘Thank You Jesus!’ Yes my brethren, we do indeed have a lot to be thankful for to Jesus; His selfless sacrifice on the cross to pay for our sins, and then His advocacy in heaven on our behalf. We can never repay those things. But the good part is that Jesus doesn’t want repayment, He just wants us to live a certain way, to overcome the evil of this world. Now let’s hear what He has to say about overcoming. Remember yesterday we saw where He spoke about Him already overcoming the world. (John 16:33) Today we’ll listen to Him from the Revelations of John. In His message to the church at Ephesus, He warns. ‘He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.’ (Rev.2:7) The scholars say: ‘The promise to him that overcometh probably applies to all Christians with genuine faith (cf. 1 John 5:4-5) (above) and will be fulfilled as believers enjoy the blessings of New Jerusalem (22:2,14), the paradise of God.’ And in the message to the church at Pergamos, Jesus declares: ‘But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of the potter shall they be broken to shivers (pieces): even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star.’ (Rev.2:25-28) Oh Friends, according to the scholars; ‘The obedient believer will be given a reward of power or authority in the millennial kingdom as he reigns with Christ (12:5; 19:15; 20:4). The morning star is probably a reference to the eternal presence of Christ Himself.’ In Rev.22:16, Jesus does refer to Himself as ‘the bright and morning star.’ And we’ll end with some uplifting words from Bruh Paul to the Corinthians. ‘But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.’ (1 Cor.15:57) Oh my people, it’s all over but the shouting! So let’s get on our horses and ride nuh; ride to victory with Christ! Much LOVE!…he that hath an ear…let him hear…what the Spirit saith unto the churches…(Rev.2:29)…wise words indeed…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 December 2012 Romans 12:21
11 Dec 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: anger, avenge, Christian faith, coals of fire, enemy, fabulous earth, faith, feed thine enemy, give thanks and praise always, glorious day, God is sovereign, holy spirit, honesty, hunger, morning star, overcome, overcome evil with good, patience, perseverance, recompense, remorse, repay, sense of shame, shame, thirst, vengeance, victory, winning the battle
Today’s Scrip-Bit 19 November 2012 Psalm 18:30
19 Nov 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: aura of love, further God's kingdom, God's Word, great confidence, happiness, holy spirit, humble servants, lies, Monday Battle Hymn, Monday Morning, right perspective, sure conquerors, tested and true, wiles, work
Psalm 18:30. As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.
Today’s Scrip-Bit 16 November 2012 1 Timothy 6:10
16 Nov 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: baptized, bitterness, eternal life, fellowship, Friday chant, holy spirit, living truth, LOVE, LOVE of Money, many sorrows, outward show, prayerful heart, relaxation, salvation, suffering, Thank God it's Friday, the importance of prayer, unity in Christ's church
1 Timothy 6:10. For the LOVE of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Today’s Scrip-Bit 12 November 2012 Psalm 124:1
12 Nov 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: can't have good without bad, complaining, Cross of Jesus, desensitization, evil machinations, eye teeth, God on our side, graoning, holy spirit, indifference, Jesus Christ, knight in shining armour, moaning, Monday Morning, natural laziness, rejuvenation of spirit, renewed vitality, whining, wicked taunts, wiles and lies, wrath
Psalm 124:1. If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, now may Israel say;
Oh Friends, it’s Monday, that glorious day that begins our work week! Oh please stop the foolish moaning and groaning! Yuh know how many billions of people around the world would give their eye teeth to have what we have! Hn! hn! Haven’t heard that one in a while. Yes mih people, it’s time we cut out this bad habit of complaining and feeling blue every Monday morning. We all want the benefits, but not the hassles of going to work. Remember what Job told his wife when she advised him to curse God and die? He wisely informed her that we can’t expect to receive only good and no bad, because that’s just the way the universe is set up. (Job 2:9-10) And furthermore, that’s definitely not Jesus’ style! He knew His earthly purpose and took it seriously, getting up early every morning to talk quietly with the Father, to get strength and encouragement before hitting the dusty road to heal, teach and generally do good. Now if we’re truly Jesus’ followers, then that should also be our modus operandi, instead of the whining and complaining, that’s possibly caused by too much partying on the weekends, plus a natural laziness that’s recently been bred into our dissolute culture. By the way, today is certainly a glorious day for some of us who don’t have to go to work because Remembrance Day, yesterday, fell on a Sunday, which means we get Monday off for the holiday. And many of God’s people joyfully cried out: ‘Praise the Lord!’ (smile) But unfortunately many of us still have to go out and labour today, so to help and encourage them, let’s all sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn in loud voice, with strong conviction. All together 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!’ Ah mih friends, that was wonderful! Actually, the ones who aren’t going to work sang more lustily than those that have to go. (smile) But that’s the nature of the beast! Anyway, with that boost to our spirits Friends, please let’s go out there and battle mightily for Jesus. For as our Bit so rightly says: ‘If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, now may Israel say;’ It’s all about praise and deliverance from enemies my brethren. And who knows more about that than Bruh David eh? That’s why he could continue: ‘If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us: Then they had swallowed us up quick (alive) when their wrath was kindled against us: Then the waters had (would have) overwhelmed us, the streams had gone (swept over) our soul: Then the proud waters had gone over (would have swept over) our soul.’ (Ps.124:2-5) Ah Friends, those are the same things our forefathers were able to say because they had the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob as their stalwart knight in shining armour, fighting their battle for them. But our generation has become so proud and full of itself, beating its puny chest in false self-sufficiency, foolishly believing that we have no use for God. Oh my brethren, that is such a fallacy, such a foolish notion, as is being proven everyday by the degeneration of the supposedly Christian nations of the world. But we either refuse to see it, as the saying goes, there’s none so blind as he who refuses to see, or Lucifer’s evil machinations have simply blinded us, made us desensitized and thus indifferent to the sinful, ungodly lives we’re now not only living, but even worse, craving to live. However, Bruh David was so encouraged by the valiant help of the God of his fathers, that he further enthused: ‘Blessed be the Lord, who hath not given us as prey to their teeth. Our soul is escaped, as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers (bird trappers): the snare is broken, and we are escaped. Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.’ (Ps.124:6-8) And all God’s people declared a mighty ‘Glory Hallelujah! Praise be His Holy Name!’ And that’s the gospel truth my people! The psalmist in thanksgiving for the Lord’s salvation even went as far as to proudly declare: ‘The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?’ (Ps.118:6)And the truthful answer to that Friends, is a big, fat NOTHING! Thus Bruh Paul could also boldly declare to the church at Rome: ‘What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?’ (Rom.8:31) And the answer to that my brethren is one single word ‘NOBODY!’ Please then Friends, I’m imploring us, just like Bruh David and Bruh Paul did so valiantly, let’s rise up in faith and with the help of our omnipotent God, powerfully fight the evil spiritual forces that are trying to conquer us and lead us to everlasting death. But we can only do that when we truly and sincerely surrender our souls and put our unending trust in the ONE and ONLY TRUE GOD of the universe – the Lord of Hosts is His Name. Much LOVE!…onward Christian soldiers…marching as to war…with the CROSS OF JESUS…going on before…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 November 2012 Matthew 3:17
10 Nov 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: baptism, capitalism, eternal life, evil spirit, glory hallelujah, good health, gouging, happiness, holy spirit, Holy Trinity, LOVE, my beloved son, peace, salvation, selfless sacrifice, the Lamb of God, the Messiah
Matthew 3:17. And lo a voice from heaven saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Ah Friends, it’s another day in the heartache of Hurricane Sandy and associates. It seems the heartless, and thus the evil spirit of capitalism is showing up now in New York and New Jersey, where some people are taking further advantage of the already terribly disadvantaged by selling hard to get gasoline for up to fifty dollars a gallon, while it’s selling in the gas stations for under five dollars. And no doubt some of the die hard advocates of capitalism will consider that proper behaviour; make a buck or several bucks wherever you can, regardless of the hardship your customers are suffering. Thankfully, that’s not the way of Jesus or His genuine followers. I’m sure though, that some of those gouging their fellow man will nonetheless consider themselves Christians, because they claim to believe in Jesus, when in fact they are simply crooks. But as we constantly read in the Good Book, the wicked will get their comeuppance eventually. Enough talk about crooks though, and man’s inhumanity to man. Let’s talk instead about Jesus, who advocates Peace and LOVE, Good Health and Happiness for all mankind to share. And all God’s people shouted a joyful: ‘Glory Hallelujah! Praise the name of Jesus, the Lamb that was slain for us!’ Yes Friends, that’s exactly whom we’re referring to. And what does our Bit say about Him? ‘And lo a voice from heaven saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.’ This particular incident occurred when Jesus came to the Jordan River to be baptized by John the Baptist. John at first refused, claiming that Jesus should be the one baptizing him. (Matt.3:14) However, Jesus persuaded John, saying: ‘Suffer (allow) it to be so now: for thus it becometh us (is fitting for us) to fulfill all righteousness. Then he suffered (allowed) him.’ (Matt.3:15) Jesus knew that he had to be baptized to fulfill the prophecies that had been spoken of Him by the prophets like Isaiah. Now here are some thoughts on that scripture from the scholars. ‘Jesus sought this outward identification with John’s ministry to fulfill all righteousness. By identifying Himself with those He came to redeem, Jesus inaugurated His public ministry as the Messiah. In regard to the Jewish religious observances, such as synagogue worship, attendance at feasts, and payment of the temple tax, Jesus always met the duties of a faithful Jew.’ The next verse then opened up a whole new chapter in the annals of man’s history here on earth. ‘And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him.’ (Matt.3:16) Yes my fellow believers, the heavens were opened and numerous prophecies were fulfilled on that most momentous occasion! And not only that, but the Father also acknowledged to all and sundry, His complete trust in, and sincere appreciation for Jesus, through our Bit that comes after. And this is what the scholars have to say, re that scripture. ‘In the process of His baptism, Jesus went up…out of the water, the prepositions suggesting that He was completely in the water and came up out from it, again indicating immersion. The descending of the Spirit of God fulfilled the predicted sign to John in order to indicate the true Messiah (cf.John 1;33, Is.11:2). The dove was a symbol of innocence and purity (cf. Matt.10:16) and served as an ideal symbolic representation of the Holy Spirit. The voice from heaven is that of the Father, giving His verbal approval to the ministry of His beloved Son. There can be no doubt that all three persons of the Trinity are actively involved here as distinct persons of the Godhead. The Father speaks, the Spirit descends, and the Son is baptized.’ Oh Friends, I couldn’t have said it any better myself. (smile) Now let’s check out a couple of scriptures that provoked all that action. We’ll begin with Isaiah, who had the most to say about Jesus. In chapter 11, he boldly declares: ‘And there shall come forth a rod (shoot) out of the stem (stock or trunk) of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow (bear fruit) out of his roots. And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.’ (Is.11:1-2) And on that auspicious day my brethren, in the muddy Jordan, the Spirit of God, did rest on Jesus! For further confirmation of those facts, let’s turn to the Gospel of John, where he talks about John the Baptist thus: ‘The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me (ranks higher than me): for he was before me. And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. And John bare record (witness), saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode (remained) upon him. And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. And I saw, and bare record (testified) that this is the Son of God.’ Wow! What powerful scripture my people! And we’ll end with some wise words of the scholars. ‘The baptism of Jesus serves as proof of His deity to John. The Holy Spirit came on Jesus and remained to assist him in His baptismal work. Before Jesus’ baptism, John knew Him only as a good cousin, not as the Lamb of God. Not until he saw the Holy Spirit descending on Jesus did John realize that He was the Son of God.’ That’s enough for us to ponder on today my people. So please read and inwardly digest all that stuff which will surely help us to understand some of the intricacies of the Good Book concerning our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, through whose selfless sacrifice, our salvation and life eternal have been guaranteed. Much LOVE!…to know, know, know Him…is to LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Him…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 5 November 2012 2 Peter 3:9
05 Nov 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: apocalypse, families, godless world, holy spirit, Jesus, jobs, LOVE, Monday, new earth, new heaven, nuclear holocaust, perish, repentance, spiritual armour, sure conquerors, wickedness
2 Peter 3:9. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
Oh Friends, it’s Monday…! And all true believers in Jesus lustily declared, ‘Thank You Lord!’ Okay, so by the world’s standards I’m missing a few screws by being glad to see Mondays roll around. But Friends, in Jesus’ domain, we are called to welcome every day, to see each one as a blessing, especially Mondays, because it gives us more opportunities to get out into the wicked, godless world and help bring the heathen hordes to repentance. Remember that’s our main purpose here on earth, re the Great Commission. (Matt.28:19-20) So to whine and complain and feel hard done by just because we have to go out and labour on Mondays, is plain un-Jesus-like. Now let’s see if we can’t become more Jesus-like by singing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn with lots of vim and vigour. As one earthly based, but heavenly sounding 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!’ That was beautiful my people! Lots of clapping and calls for an encore in heaven. (smile) And now that the adrenalin’s running, let’s get out there and make a difference for Jesus! But why the rush you ask, since our Bit clearly states that: ‘The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.’ Ah Friends, please understand that at some stage even the Lord’s patience will run out and He will set the mighty conflagration He’s promised in motion. And the problem is that none of us know when that will be, it could be today, tomorrow, or even another two thousand years from now. When yuh see, even Jesus didn’t know, you must understand how close to His chest the Father’s playing that card. ‘But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels in heaven, but my Father only.’ (Matt.24:36) And Peter solemnly warns in the verse after our Bit: ‘But the day of the Lord will come as a thief (robber) in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that were therein shall be burned up.’ (2 Pet.3:10) Oh my people, I’m sure that none of us want to be involved in that fervent heat nuh! That means we have to be in a state of constant readiness; working righteousness in true faith, filled with hungry hope and great expectations, fully relying on the awesome promises of God. As Peter continues: ‘Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation (conduct) and godliness, Looking for and hasting (hastening) unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot and blameless.’ (2 Pet.3:11-14) Now isn’t that something to look forward to Friends? Most definitely! And we’ll end with some clarification from the scholars, re that scripture. ‘The day of the Lord here refers to the return of Christ in judgement, not the Rapture, since this day results in final apocalyptic judgement. The heavens that shall pass away with a great noise are the atmospheric heavens. The elements shall melt with fervent heat certainly could refer to a nuclear holocaust. Thus Peter urges his readers to look beyond this present world to the new heavens and a new earth characterized by righteousness.’ Oh Friends, the only way to avoid that fervent heat is by getting in with Jesus as soon as possible, meaning RIGHT NOW, because we don’t know when we’ll give up the mantle of this earthly life, and once we do that, there’s no going back and changing our minds. So please, let’s all sit down today and seriously contemplate our personal situations, vis a vie Jesus and our eternal salvation. It’s the MOST IMPORTANT matter on earth for us to consider. Much LOVE!…to be with Jesus till eternity…or not to be with Jesus…that is the question…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 20 October 2012 Proverbs 4:7
20 Oct 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: awesome blessings, earthly needs, eternal truth, faithful promise, holy spirit, reverence of God, seek wisdom, understanding, widom, wonderful god
Proverbs 4:7. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
Oh Friends, the ole fella seems to be having a case of writer’s block, because I can’t come up with a witty or interesting intro this morning. (smile) But the good part is that I’m alive and kicking, thanks to the most wonderful Deity, whom I serve and worship! Ah Friends, that in itself is an awesome blessing, for with Him constantly in my corner and by my side, I need not fear anyone or anything. Added to that, He provides all my earthly needs, once I stay in good relationship with Him. Wow! And furthermore, though I may sometimes be lonely, I’m NEVER ALONE, because His Holy Spirit resides within me. Mama Mia! The only problem is whether I use the Holy Spirit as wisely as I should, for He will not encroach upon my freedom of choice. That’s why we’re going to talk about wisdom again today. For the last time though, I faithfully promise. (smile) Don’t know why believers are so against hearing the same topic of scripture for a few days straight nuh, especially when it’s the most important attribute we can acquire here on earth, and one which we desperately need judging from the troubled state of our lives in particular, and our world in general. But that seems to be the nature of the beast, and all I can do is to persevere with it. Oh, I indeed hesitated about talking about wisdom again today, but the pull was finally too strong for me to ignore it. So here we go once more with our wise Bit: ‘Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.’ Yes Friends, there’s absolutely no doubt that when we possess wisdom, and the understanding that flows from it, then we’re able to handle any and everything that comes against us, because it’s wisdom that shows us how and where to go, and what to do and say. With it in our possession, we can unlock any door and be at peace. Why? Because those essential attributes come from God Himself, and if we truly possess them, then our souls will be at peace, wherever we are, in whatever situation we find ourselves. Today we’ll talk about the everlasting nature of WISDOM. Listen to Cousin Sol as he declares of WISDOM: ‘The Lord possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old. I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water. Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth. While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields (outer places), nor the highest part of the dust (the beginning of the dust) of the world. When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass (drew a circle) upon the face of the depth (deep): When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep: When he gave to the sea his decree (its limit), that the waters should not pass (transgress) his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth: Then I was by him, as one brought up with him (Jewish tradition): and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him; Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delight s were with the sons of men.’ (Prov.8:22-31) Ah mih people, that’s eternal truth! Remember in a previous message we saw that the Lord used WISDOM to make the universe and all therein? (Prov.3:19-20) Oh Friends, before we go further, let me give you a brief comment of the scholars, re those verses: ‘Although some have associated verses 22-31 with the creative work of the preincarnate Christ (before He was born of flesh and blood) (cf. John 1:1-3; Col.1:15-17) who is revealed as the Wisdom of God (1 Cor.1:24; Col.2:3), the major emphasis of the context is on God’s own use of wisdom in creating the universe.’ That means wisdom was with our heavenly Father from the very beginning of time, and will be there also for all eternity. That’s because it’s WISDOM and its various associates like prudence, discretion, knowledge and understanding that drive the everlasting engine of God’s affairs. Without WISDOM and those other attributes, everything will fall apart. That’s why WISDOM further declares: ‘Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways. Hear instruction and be wise, and refuse it not (do not disdain it). Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoso findeth me, findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord. But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.’ (Prov.8:32-36) What more can I say to that eh my people? Not much, cause Cousin Sol said it all. But I can strongly advise us to seek wisdom, understanding and all those things which make life down here on earth a tad easier than normal. And to end, hear some more words of wisdom on the subject. (smile) ‘The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the Holy (One, Spirit) is understanding.’ (Prov.9:10) So please Friends, let’s get serious about finding wisdom and understanding nuh, for they are the essence of life, and until we truly find them, we’ll be sadly lacking both physically, and spiritually. Much LOVE!…only they who are wise…are truly alive…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 15 September 2012 Psalm 90:12
15 Sep 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: 9/11, Christians, faithfulness, fanaticism, God's promises, holy spirit, idol worship, persecution, reverence, war, wisdom
Psalm 90:12. So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
Oh Friends, the ole fella’s starting late this forecasted cool and cloudy Saturday morning, plus he’s tired, although I got lots of rest, and I don’t have a clue about what I’m going to write. (smile) How is that for a start eh? But our God is a good and merciful Deity and has promised not to give us tasks to perform in His Name without the necessary tools to perform them. And I’ve had personal experience in this area for the last how many years, therefore I’m not worried about my lack of info, late start or tiredness. Remember that Jesus also promised that the Holy Spirit will tell us what to say when the time is right, be it in persecution or writing on His behalf. (Matt.10:19-20) So right now I’m depending on those promises, (smile) because I know that our God is faithful and won’t let me down in my time of need. Oh Friends, when is the nonsense going to end eh? When full scale war breaks out? I’m talking about the latest acts of violence against American life and property in the Muslim countries because of a reputedly derogatory video against the prophet Mohammed. Now who in their right senses would produce such a video and upload it to You Tube knowing the reverence lavished on that spiritual leader by his followers, and the fanaticism with which his name is protected, especially at a very sensitive time like this? The fellow in the middle of the production apparently said he wanted to stir up the pot. Well he certainly has! And if the reports are true that he’s a Coptic Christian, can you imagine the problems it will cause those poor folks who are already so badly treated and persecuted in the Muslim countries. Ah Lord eh! Some of us definitely need our heads examined yes, for the last thing we need is a religious backlash and upheaval in these already turbulent times. No wonder in his only Psalm, and therefore the first in the Psalter, Moses pleaded with God in our Bit: ‘So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom (gain a heart of wisdom).’ That video certainly wasn’t an act of wisdom. However he knows that his days are truly numbered now, and has taken to hiding. But as the old people say, you can run, but you can’t hide, and one day they’ll catch up to him and he’ll pay the price for his folly. What makes matter all the worse is that it was done on the anniversary of the bombing of the World Trade Centre. Don’t you think that gave more ammunition to the already highly motivated fanatics to remember and celebrate with more murderous behaviour? Now why is it that we need to know the number of our days before we can seek wisdom eh? That should be a priority from the very start! But I guess mankind likes to push the envelope right to the limit, then try to smarten up just before we reach the end of our leashes. But that ought not to be so my people. I guess the Lord doesn’t let us know our life span, because too many of us would live evil, ungodly lives, then at the last minute repent and plead for mercy. In Psalm 39, A prayer for self-understanding, Bruh David asks the same basic question, but in a slightly different manner. ‘Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am. Behold, thou hast made my days as a handbreadth; and mine age is nothing before thee: verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity (vapour).’ (Ps.39:4-5) But Friends, we don’t need to know how frail we are, just to know that we are indeed frail ‘…like grass which groweth up. In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up; in the evening it is cut down, and withereth.’ (Ps.90:5-6) And like Moses lamented over his people Israel so long ago: ‘For they are a nation void of counsel, neither is there any understanding in them. O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end.’ (Deut.32:28-29) Moses could be talking about our society today, for this current version is so mired in evil and ungodliness that they don’t know whether they are coming or going. Sadly, many of those involved in all the lustful, idol worship and worldly activities that are now so prevalent, don’t have a clue as to what they really are involved in, and what their end will be like if they keep on living that worldly life. That’s because they have no real knowledge of their Creator, or believe the evolution theory, and thus think that they can get away with murder. But Friends, we believers know how wrong they are, and it’s our job to try and wake them up to the reality of the situation. Remember Jesus said that there’d be great joy in heaven over one repentant sinner, more than over ninety nine righteous ones, who need no repentance. (Luke 15:7) And James tells us that for every sinner we bring to repentance, we shall save a soul from death and also hide plenty sins. (James 5:20) So my brethren, please let’s not worry about the number of our earthly days, but instead behave as though today is the last one, and go out into this evil, ungodly world and behave appropriately; that is winning souls for Jesus, with the wisdom we have already received through the power of His Holy Spirit. That’s truly wisdom at its highest! Much LOVE!…Christians ought to revere Jesus as highly as other faiths revere their leaders… P.S. Yuh see, Friends, the Lord was indeed faithful to me. The Bit’s not too late, and it does make some sense. (smile) Much LOVE!
Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 September 2012 2 Samuel 23:3
11 Sep 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: 9/11, anxiety, conqueror, evil, fear God, holy spirit, ignorance, just rulers, out of sync, Rock, rough, slippery, ungodly schemes, withdrawal, World Trade Centre, worry
2 Samuel 23:3. The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.
Oh Friends, the ole fella’s shaking it a bit rough this morning. In fact he’s been shaking it rough all weekend. Hn! Ignorance really is a hell of a thing yes! Why do I say that? Because last week I saw that I was running out of my arthritic medication, but thinking that I had some in the bag I carry around, I didn’t contact my doctor for a refill. And as the Lord would have it, I ran out over the weekend. However, when I checked the bag, lo and behold, there were no arthritic pills. And though I took some other stuff, it just didn’t feel the same. Don’t know if I was suffering withdrawal symptoms or what, but my whole body just seemed more achy and out of sync than normal. And to make matters worse, my allergies are acting up this morning. Brother! The ole body is surely crying out for constant sunshine and warm seawater yes! (smile) Anyway, enough of my woes, they’re inconsequential to those of many others. Here’s a quote though, from American author Clarence Day (1874-1935) that we can all attest to. ‘The real world is not easy to live in. It is rough; it is slippery.’ And isn’t that the living truth Friends! In fact our world is getting rougher and more slippery everyday. That’s why we have to assume full responsibility for our health and strength with continuous positive action, and not wait until a crisis forces us to act. But as Christians, true followers of Jesus, we don’t have to get all flustered, anxious and worried over the world’s rough and slippery nature, for Jesus reassured us that He had already conquered the world, so we should be of good spirit, and do our best while abiding in Him. (John 16:33) Today is also the eleventh anniversary of the World Trade Centre bombing in New York City. You can imagine the emotions that will be fired up over that today. But you know what, our Bit today encapsulates what was wrong with that whole scenario. ‘The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.’ Obviously the rulers, or those who controlled the people who committed that heinous crime, weren’t just, or didn’t fear God. And sadly that’s a fact that’s happening all over the current world; rulers neither are afraid physically or emotionally of God, nor do they reverence Him. They just do as they please, or follow the evil, ungodly schemes laid down by their evil, ungodly masters. And it’s worthy to note that today we’re dealing with some of Bruh David’s last words. Before our Bit, he proudly proclaims: ‘The Spirit of the Lord spake by me, and his word was in my tongue… Bit… And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.’ (2 Sam.23:2,4) As we said earlier, there are surely very few, if any rulers of that calibre existing today. Now here’s a brief explanation from the scholars. “David attests the divine inspiration of his psalm. Verses 2-7 contain a lovely testimony in song of David’s abiding trust in God and the unconditional covenant of God with the house of David.” Yes Friends, although Bruh David was far from perfect, he staunchly abided in the LOVE, power and trust of God, so that the Lord made an unconditional covenant with him. His name and his house would always be revered in the annals of Jewish history. It’s also interesting to see that the terminology used by Bruh David to describe his God was also used by a couple of other famous faithful followers in their songs of praise. In his song, Moses declares: ‘Because I will publish (proclaim) the name of the Lord: ascribe ye greatness unto our God. He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgement: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.’ (Deut.32:3-4) And all God’s people declared a loud and grateful; ‘Praise the Lord, for He is indeed our Rock and our salvation!’ And Samuel’s mother, Hannah, after she had cried out to the Lord and He had filled her barren womb with the prophet, she also joyfully declared: ‘There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none besides thee: neither is there any rock like our God.’ (1 Sam.2:2) Ah mih people, the word ‘Rock’ emphasizes the stability, permanence and unchanging nature of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, as a place of security, safety and rest, of hope and salvation! Where else can we find a God who truly possesses all those qualities eh? NOWHERE, my Friends, NOWHERE! And yuh know what? The Holy Spirit just advised me to stop here for today, because the rest of my message would be much too long for our busy, short attention spans. (smile) And since I try to be as obedient as possible, I’ll certainly bow to His greater wisdom. So Friends, please let’s ponder today’s message and allow it help us in our walk of faith through this rough and slippery world. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen. Much LOVE my brethren!…without the true rock…Almighty God…to lean upon…the human animal will flounder and die…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 September 2012 Psalm 89:15
10 Sep 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: Amen, blessed, breath of life, children of light, confidence, faithful servants, favour, holy spirit, hymns, lies, Monday, Most High, psalms, righteous passion, sing a new song, sing unto the Lord, solidarity, spiritual songs, wicked taunts, wiles
Psalm 89:15. Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy countenance.
And the Lord said: ‘Let the day dawn, let the SON shine forth His brilliant light so that my people will be released from the darkness of their evil ways and walk in the light. And they will no longer be called the children of darkness, but the children of LIGHT!’ And He called that day Monday. Yes Friends, it’s the beginning of the new work week, so let’s be up and at ’em! As the Father so graciously blessed us with favour and the breath of life, let’s rise up and walk in the all encompassing LIGHT of Jesus nuh, so that the whole world will know that we are His followers, His faithful servants. And all God’s children said a loud and glorious ‘Amen!’ Yeh, I know some Mondays it’s hard to get up and get going, but that’s exactly why Jesus sent His Holy Spirit to dwell in us; to help us accomplish those undesirable or difficult tasks. And the Father has said that in time of difficulty, really at any time at all, we’re very welcome to call on Him for assistance in His Son’s name. So Friends, let’s do that now by singing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn in loud voice, with as much enthusiasm as we can muster. All together 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!’ Oh my people, did you hear the angels applauding our song? And did you see the big smile on Jesus’ face, as He raised His right hand in solidarity with us, and proudly declared: ‘Way to go mih breddren!’ Yes, Friends, that’s the kind of stuff that happens in heaven when we come before the Lord with praise and thanks and asking for help in sweet song. Our Bit solemnly proclaims it: ‘Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy countenance.’ Now I definitely did not plan to spread this Bit over four days, but everyday I was guided to more stuff that I could not turn away. Yesterday we noted that a lot of advice re singing the praises of God was found in the Psalms, but we never got around to them. So let’s do that today, starting with Psalm 92, superscripted; Praises for the Lord’s goodness. And it opens thus: ‘It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O Most High: To show forth (declare) thy LOVING-kindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night. Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery (lute or lyre); upon the harp with a solemn sound. For thou Lord hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands.’ (Ps.92:1-4) Now listen to Psalm 95, A psalm of praise to the great God: ‘O Come let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise (shout joyfully) to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms (songs). For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.’ Wow Friends, words of absolute truth and wisdom! And if you didn’t believe those, listen to Psalm 98; Praise to God for his salvation: ‘O Sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory…Make a joyful noise (shout joyfully) unto the Lord, all the earth: make a loud noise (break forth in song), and rejoice, and sing praise. Sing unto the Lord with the harp; with the harp and the voice of a psalm (sound of a song). With trumpets and sound of cornet make a joyful noise before the Lord the King.’ (Ps.98:1,4-6) Yes my people, that’s how God’s children should praise Him. And there are many more Psalms that advise such action, but right now let’s turn to Bruh Paul’s strong advice to the Ephesians on musical worship. ‘And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess (dissipation); but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.’ (Eph.5:18-21) Wonderful advice! But do we do that my brethren? Yes, to a certain extent, but definitely not enough. Instead we sing a lot of the nonsense that the world considers music. Nothing’s wrong with singing some of that, but in many cases, those songs are derogatory towards God’s Word and His Will. And we’ll end appropriately with words from the Song of Solomon. ‘For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of the birds is come, and the voice of the turtle (dove) is heard in our land.’ (Song 1:11-12) Yes Friends, even the birds know that they ought to give thanks and praise to their creator in sweet song for all the wonderful blessings He’s lavished upon them, so how much more should we, His finest creation. Unfortunately though, our winter is about to start, so many people will soon be singing the winter blahs instead (smile). However my brethren, let’s contemplate all that we’ve read today, and with a righteous passion burning in us, go out into the evil, ungodly world and walk amongst the heathen hordes, as proud, dedicated and worthy followers of Jesus, loudly singing His praises, so that the unbelievers will soon be breaking down our doors to also find peace and prosperity, joy and harmony, salvation and eternal life with our Lord and Saviour. I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen! Much LOVE my awesome Friends in Christ!…how can we truly LOVE Jesus…if we don’t sing His praises in joyful song eh…
SCRIP-BITS 