26 Dec 2023
by randyobrien50
in Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: according to his riches in glory, allow food to go to waste, be of good cheer, Black Friday, Boxing Day, come unto me all ye that labour, Cyber Monday, excessive litigation, greater is he that is in you, holy spirit, hurry, I am meek and lowly in heart, I am the beloved of god, I am the way the truth and the life, i have overcome the world, I will give you rest, in a time of serious hunger, in god's eyes, Jesus Christ, Jesus is the answer to everything, let not your heart be troubled, LOVE, my God shall supply all your needs, my peace I give to you, neither let it be afraid, no man cometh to the Father, Peace i leave with you, seek ye first the kingdom of God, shall keep your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ, share His love with my neighbours, take my yoke upon you, than he that's in the world, the absence of snow, the peace of God which passeth all understading, trust my friend Jesus, truth, Tuesday Mantra, worry
Matthew 11:28. Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
And then it was Tuesday, the day after Monday, the day after Christmas day, making it Boxing day! Yes friends, the big day has now come and gone, and I hope that you all had a good time celebrating with your families and friends. I know I did with my family. And as always, the food was excellent, but too much for the few celebrants. And, unfortunately, in this Christmas season of lavish and extreme preparations, a lot of good food will be thrown away, despite the fact that there are many hungry people in our society.
However, in these days of excessive litigation, people are afraid to give away and also accept food, as those who receive the food can get sick and cause all sorts of problems. What a contentious, cantankerous and fearful society we’ve become, that allows so much good food to go to waste in a time of serious hunger, simply because of possible lawsuits. And another note, remember when Boxing Day was the big sales day? Well that’s no longer the case, the Black Fridays and Cyber Mondays, around the time of Thanksgiving are now the big sales days!
Ah Lord eh! We’ve taken every holy and/or religious day and made them so commercialized, that many don’t even remember the true reason behind all the activity. So, now, the Boxing Day sales are merely shadows of their earlier selves. And anyway, I don’t know how many of us would like to go shopping on a wet, drizzly, cloudy day like today. In fact, the whole Christmas weekend has been wet and dark, leaving many of the outdoor enthusiasts saddened by the absence of the white stuff (snow) for them to frolic in. I guess that’s just another effect of the climate change that’s currently bewildering our world.
But the most important thing to remember, especially in this Christmas season, is that we have Jesus; our End All and Be All – our answer to every problem – our Go to Guy! That’s why He came to earth as a man in this season; to eventually sacrifice His sinless life and save us from our sins and be the One we turn to when the storms of life batter and besiege us. And there’s no better example of that than Jesus’ Great Invitation, where He invites all and sundry to ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of (from) me, for I am meek and lowly in heart (gentle and humble): and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ (Matt. 11:28-30)
What a marvellous invitation my people, one that we refuse to our own detriment. But let’s make one thing perfectly clear, Jesus is not promising the easy life. No! He’s promising one that’s easier and more bearable than that offered by Satan and the world. Note that He also has a yoke, but that’s much easier to bear, and His burden is lighter that what you’ll find if you refuse His offer. This world is full of sin, trials and tribulations that we cannot escape, but with Jesus as our Lord and Saviour we can mitigate the circumstances and handle them in much better fashion that without His help.
Jesus Himself said it; twice to boot. Listen up: ‘Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.’ (John 14:27) Yes friends, Jesus’ peace is an entirely different kind to that which the world offers, and consequently we ought not to be afraid or worried. As Bruh Paul wrote about it to the Philippians. ‘And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep (guard) your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ.’ (Phil. 4:7) That means when we accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour we will experience a peace, God’s peace, that surpasses all human understanding. And who wouldn’t want to have that kind of peace in these turbulent and evil times eh!
Now, here’s the next statement of Jesus that we should pay attention re peace and fear. ‘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) Ah mih people, what reassuring, encouraging and true words from our Lord and Master! And has He ever overcome the world, defeating Satan, hell, death and the grave when He rose triumphantly on that first Easter morning, showing that He is indeed the resurrection and the giver of eternal life!
As Bruh Paul says in Romans: ‘Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that LOVED us.’ (Rom. 8:37) For sure! That conquering Spirit of Jesus is indwelt by all His followers, and if we live the way He desires, we’ll overcome all that’s necessary to be overcome. And John adds his bit to the subject in his first epistle, when he truthfully informs us: ‘Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.’ (1 John 4:4) And isn’t that the glorious truth my brethren! It certainly is! For Christ is indeed greater than the enemy, the evil fallen angel, Satan!
However, my fellow saints, to achieve all that Jesus offers we need to continuously keep Him first place, uppermost in our lives. As He so emphatically warned: ‘But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.’ (Matt. 6:33) Our omniscient God knows all that we need to live this life at a high standard and He will provide them if we revere and exalt Him the way we ought. It’s as Bruh Paul wrote to the Philippians: ‘But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.’ (Phil. 4:19)
And for good measure, (smile) let’s just remind ourselves that we cannot get to the Father except through Jesus. And He said it loud and clear too: ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.’ (John 14:6) Please friends, let’s keep that uppermost in our minds this Boxing Day, as we continue celebrating the birth of Christ. Now, let’s go home declaring (awright!!!) our Tuesday Mantra, letting all and sundry know to whom we belong lock, stock and barrel.
As one sincere voice: ‘In God’s eyes, I’m not what I do. I’m not what I have. I’m not what people say about me. I am the beloved of God, that’s who I am. No one can take that from me. I don’t have to worry. I don’t have to hurry. I can trust my friend Jesus and share His LOVE with my immediate neighbours, as well as with the whole wide world! Glory be!’
And having made that momentous declaration, (yesss!!!) we’re now obligated to go out and share that amazing LOVE and friendship of Jesus with others, so that they too can come to know and LOVE Him like we do! Much LOVE!
…Jesus is the Answer….Jesus is the answer…Yes…Jesus is the Answer to EVERYTHING…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
25 Dec 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a special Monday, born of water and of the spirit, born that man no more may die, born to give them second birth, Charles Wesley, Christ is born in Bethlehem, eat the fat and drink the sweet, eternal life, faith, George Whitefield, glory to the new born king, go your way, God and sinners reconciled, hail the heaven born Prince of Peace, Hark the herald angels sing, holy spirit, Jesus Christ, light and life to all he brings, LOVE, peace on earth and mercy mild, risen with healing in his wings, salvation, send portions unto them for whom nothing has been prepared, that which is born of flesh is flesh, that which is born of spirit is spirit, the Sun of righteousness, this day is holy unto the Lord., truth
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Nehemiah 8:10a. Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto the Lord:
Well a Merry Christmas to all you my Scrip-Bit friends and families! Let’s hope that this blessed day of our Lord and Saviour’s birth finds you in good health, celebrating with those close to you. Let’s also hope that we did our godly duty by praying for those who can’t celebrate Christ’s birth the way we can due to strife, persecution and/or natural disaster, neither forgetting to send portions of our abundance to those around us who don’t have enough. Remember the scripture in Nehemiah?
After the scribe Ezra read from the Book of the Law, Nehemiah, the governor, said unto them: ‘This day is holy unto the Lord your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept when they heard the words of the law. Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto the Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.’ (Neh. 8:9-10) And this Christmas day my brethren is also holy unto the Lord, so let us be joyful, but not forget those of us who are poor, sick and downtrodden.
Now, although today is Monday, since it’s such a special Monday in our calendar, with gatherings of faithful believers in the Lord’s sanctuary all over the world, I thought we would treat it like a Sunday. Thus we shall sing and praise our heavenly Father for the great gift of His Son, born this day, some two thousand years ago. And what better way to honour Christ the Lord than with this marvellous old favourite of Christmas, ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing’ written by Charles Wesley, the great hymn writer and one of the leaders of the Methodist movement of the time.
And, like so many of these old songs, this one has a rather interesting story, which includes four creative minds over a span of more than a hundred years. Wesley published the song in 1739 with a title of ‘A Hymn of Christmas Day’ and the first line being “Hark how all the Welkin rings, Glory to the King of Kings”, welkin being an archaic English term for the heavens. But then, in 1753, Wesley’s’ friend and colleague, George Whitefield edited the text of the hymn, noticeably changing the first line to what it is today.
For over a century, the hymn was sung to different tunes, until in 1855, the English musician William Hayman Cummings accomplished a unique feat by marrying Whitefield’s adaptation of Wesley’s hymn to a melody by one of classical music’s most notable composers: the great Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847). And apparently Mendelssohn’s tune was meant to be an instrumental piece, not suited for vocals. But Cummings, who was a well-respected musician himself did it, and thus we have the great Christmas hymn of today.
So, as always, let’s offer up sincere sacrifices of praise to heaven as we sing this marvellous song, which celebrates the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, in a nice mid-tempo version. Singing: ‘Hark! The herald angels sing “Glory to the new-born king Peace on earth and mercy mild God and sinners reconciled” Joyful all ye nations rise Join the triumph of the skies With angelic host proclaim “Christ is born in Bethlehem” Hark! The herald angels sing “Glory to the new-born king.”
Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of Righteousness! Light and life to all He brings Risen with healing in His wings Mild He lays His glory by Born that man no more may die Born to raise the sons of earth Born to give them second birth. Hark! The herald angels sing “Glory to the new-born king.” Hark! The herald angels sing “Glory to the new-born king. Peace on earth and mercy mild God and sinners reconciled” Joyful all ye nations rise Join the triumph of the skies With angelic host proclaim “Christ is born in Bethlehem” Hark! The herald angels sing “Glory to the new-born king” “Glory to the new-born king.”
Oh my people, what wonderful singing! I’m sure those sacrifices of praise were well received in heaven. Now, here’s an interesting commentary from the Godtube website that breaks down the song in a concise fashion. It says: ‘Charles Wesley’s hymn offers us a good survey of theology. It mentions many of the names and titles of Christ: King, Lord, Prince of Peace, Sun of Righteousness, Everlasting Lord, Desire of Nations, Incarnate Deity, and Emmanuel.
After the first stanza’s call to praise “the new-born King,” the following stanzas celebrate the virgin birth, the deity of Christ, the resurrection of the body, and the truth of the new birth. Two phrases, in particular, deserve comment: “Mild he lays his glory by” refers to Christ’s willingness to lay aside the glory of heaven to take on human nature and become one of us. “Late in time behold him come” reminds us of Hebrews 1:2 where we are told “in these last days” God has spoken to us through his Son.’
And the Lord God Almighty has certainly spoken to us through the gospel of His awesome Son in these evil and ungodly times! Now there are a few scriptures that I want to point out with respect to one particular line in the song. That’s, ‘Born that man no more may die Born to raise the sons of earth Born to give them second birth.’ I believe that ties in nicely with these words of Jesus to Martha, Lazarus’ sister when she was querying Jesus about not coming sooner to save her sick brother.
He says to her: ‘I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead (may die), yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believeth thou this?’ (John 11:25-26) I do hope we believe that my brethren! That first part also ties in with Jesus interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well, when He informs her: ‘Whoever drinketh of this water (from the well) shall thirst again: But whosever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water I shall give him shall be in him a well (fountain) of water springing up into everlasting life.’ (John 4:13-14) Oh friends, again, I do hope that we are as anxious to drink of Christ’s living water as that Samaritan woman was! (smile)
And as per the last words of the line: ‘Born to give them second birth,’ has to refer to Jesus chat with the Pharisee Leader Nicodemus who came to Jesus by night to ask some perplexing questions. And was Nicodemus surprised when Jesus told him in no uncertain terms: ‘Verily verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again (from above), he cannot enter the kingdom of God.’ (John 3:3) Nicodemus was nonplussed; surprised, confused, bewildered, asking if a man could enter his mother’s womb so he could be born a second time.
But Jesus clarified the situation for Him. ‘Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.’ (John 3:5-6) Thus friends, it behooves us to be baptized in water and be reborn of the Spirit of God, if we want to enter His kingdom. And the first thing that means is accepting Christ as Lord and Saviour, for He is the way the truth and the life, and no man comes to the Father but by Him.’ (John 14:6) Matter fixed, this Christmas day! (smile)
So, let’s eat, drink and be merry today, celebrating Christ’s birth, ensuring that we’ve been born again and are thus eligible for eternal life in heaven. Much LOVE!
…the LOVE of Christ…should be front and centre today…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
18 Dec 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a disgrace to ther families, barren women, extraordinary people, faith, fear came upon all that dwelt round about them, he shall be called John, holy spirit, humble servants, Jehovah Rapha, Jesus Christ, LOVE, mass confusion, mercy, Monday Morning Battle Hymn, repentance in our hearts, salvation, sincerely seek your face, strong faith in Christ, the beginning of christmas week, the birth of John the Baptist, the God who heals, the hand of the Lord was with him, the Lord had showed great mercy upon her, the reason for the season- Jesus Christ, the throne of grace, truth, turn from our evil ways, wisdom
Luke 1:60. And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.
So friends, it’s Monday, which means we have to go to work…so what eh? And although it’s also wet and cloudy like yesterday, this is also the beginning of Christmas week, the celebration of Jesus’ awesome birth, which makes almost everything right with our world! (smile) Look at it this way nuh…next Monday we won’t be going to work but will be celebrating Christmas Day with friends and family. Now doesn’t that marvellous occasion make up for having to go to work today? It certainly does! And we all know anyway, that during Christmas week much work isn’t done in the many offices all around the world.
No! What with all the office parties and exchanging of gifts and all the other hoopla, Christmas week is perhaps the best week to go to work. (smile) However, in all the excitement and festivities, let’s not forget who and what is the reason for it all; Jesus Christ, His birth and the consequent saving of our sinful souls. So please make time, every so often in our busy schedules to stop, for even a moment, and give Jesus thanks for all that He’s done, is doing and has promised to do for us. End of Sermon!
And today we’re going to take a look into the birth of John the Baptist. Remember the Lord had made his father Zacharias dumb because he had not believed the words of the angel Gabriel, that he and his hitherto barren wife Elisabeth would have a male child named John in their old age. (Luke 1:5-25) So life rolls along with Zacharias not being able to speak. The Bible then continues the story thus: ‘Now Elisabeth’s full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son. And her neighbours and her cousins (relatives) heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.’ (Luke 1:57-58)
Isn’t it wonderful that Elisabeth’s relatives were happy that her barrenness was repealed through the Lord’s great mercy, and consequently rejoiced with her. In those days, it was a time of great joy when a hitherto barren woman became pregnant, because a married woman without children was looked upon as a disgrace to herself and her family. And along with the rejoicing there was also drama, because the Lord is a dramatist, and likes to create drama in even the simplest situations. (smile)
The Good Library says: ‘And it came to pass, that on the eight day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father. And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John. And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name. and they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all. And his (Zacharias’) mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God.’ (Luke 1:59-64)
Yes mih bredrin, our God LOVES His dramatic moments! He could have loosened Zacharias’ tongue and made him say that the child’s name was John. But no, He made him remain dumb until after he had written down the name. Then, and only then, did God cause him to speak. And what was the response to the unusual situation? The Word says: ‘And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these saying (things) were noised abroad (discussed) throughout all the hill country of Judaea. And all they that heard them, laid them up (kept them) in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.’ (Luke 1:65-66)
Ah friends, when the Lord’s hand is on you in a strong manner, you will certainly be different, not be a normal, everyday, run of the mill person, as were all the prophets and people who manifested God’s Word down through the ages. Look at Noah; he bult an ark because God said so, and everybody laughed at him. But he proved them wrong when the flood came. Abraham left his home and family at the age of seventy-five to go wandering in the wilderness because God said so. Now he is the father of our faith. Bruh Joseph, Bruh David, Bruh Paul, Moses, Job, all had the strong hand of the Lord on them and they all lived extraordinary lives because they followed the Lord’s leading and guidance.
So why, when we ordinary folks today have the Holy Spirit of God dwelling within us, to lead and guide us in the Lord’s directions, are we so stubborn, hard hearted and foolish that we refuse to listen to His awesome and eternal wisdom eh? Who knows? But let’s hope and pray that in this Christmas Season, as the celebrations of Christ’s incarnate birth intensify, that many unbelievers will finally accept Him as their Lord and Saviour, and those of us who already know Him, will increase, or improve our faith in and LOVE for Him, so that we can become the extraordinary people He desires us to become.
Now, let’s go to the throne of grace, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, to find the help we need to become more mature Christians. Altogether now: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. Heavenly Father, You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems. Yes, we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek Your face.
So Lord, we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading for wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems. Oh Father, please ease the pain of the many suffering from negative situations, show them Your awesome grace and mercy. And faithfully keep Your promise to prosper us if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’
And the irony of the situation is that the solution to our problem is found in our prayer…turn from our evil ways. Yes friends, that’s always the first step in receiving divine help. And if we’re wise, we’ll do just that! Much LOVE!
…extraordinary people…have the extraordinary hand of God on them…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
16 Dec 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a personal relationship with Christ, a two way street, casting all our cares upon God, enter ye in at the strait gate, eternal life, faith, holy spirit, I am the way the truth and the life, I know you not, I may know you all the more, increase my awareness of you today, Jesus Christ, Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer, Lord I want to be with you now, LOVE, no man cometh unto the Father but by me, quiet my soul, safe under the refuge of His mighty wings, slow my thoughts, the breath of life, the first shall be last, the last shall be first, the only way to heaven, the pearly gates of heaven, the presence of God, the third person of the Holy Trinity, Triune Godhead, true sincerity, truth, weeping and gnashing of teeth, wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, wisdom, your unceasing nearness
John 14:6. I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
And it’s a perfect lazy-day Saturday morning; cloudy, cold and dry. Yes friends, all the elements we need to instigate laziness. (smile) But let’s hope that in that laziness we do take some time to communicate with our wonderful God, who’s given us the breath of life for another day. It’s a good day to spend time talking to our Maker, pouring out our hearts to Him, casting all our cares upon Him, as He’s recommended in His Word. (1 Pet. 1:7) And after emptying our souls to Him, rest quietly to hear what He has to tell us in answer to our doubts and fears.
Now, it’s been said that that’s one of the believers’ biggest problems and mistakes; talking to God then quickly moving off to other things, instead of waiting to hear what the Lord has to say. Remember, it’s a conversation we’re having with the Father, and a conversation is usually a two way street. So please, let’s not rush off as soon as we finish uttering our cares, but stick around quietly and hear what the Father has to say, for He will say something, and you cannot afford to miss anything the Lord has to say. (smile)
And, in preparation for that outpouring of our personal cares, let’s raise up our Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer to heaven, with strong conviction and true sincerity. As one voice: ‘Lord, I want to be with You now. Please slow my thoughts and quiet my soul. Let my muscles relax, my breath deepen. You are here with me – Your peace and LOVE are present. I marvel to think You can’t be contained, that Your LOVE both surrounds and fills me. Thank You for this tenderness, Lord. I praise You for Your unceasing nearness. Increase my awareness of You today, that I may know You all the more. Amen!’
Now, let’s rest a moment and allow what we’ve said to truly sink into our consciousness, as the Lord does quiet our souls and raises our awareness of His LOVING presence. Ah mih people, what a wonderful God we serve! Who else but Jehovah God would make His presence so tangibly felt to His followers eh? Nobody! And He does it all through the power of the third person of the Holy Trinity, the Holy Spirit, which dwells within us to lead, guide, comfort, and make known the desires and plans of the Father.
What an awesome team is our Triune Godhead! The Father plans and directs; the Son, Jesus came to earth and did the dirty, sacrificial work, taking the sins of the whole world on His sinless shoulders; then the Holy Spirit comes along to do the everyday work to enable believers to communicate with the Father and stay safe under the refuge of His mighty wings! You couldn’t find a better team than that friends, that’s why it’s ever so necessary and important to accept Christ as Lord and Saviour, then follow the lead and guiding of the Holy Spirit, who comes to dwell within you, once you’ve accepted Christ as the number One priority in your life!
And why is that you ask? Because Jesus died to pay for our sins, and only if we accept Him as Lord and Saviour will we be entitled to spend eternity with Him in heaven. Otherwise we’ll be headed straight for hellfire, death and damnation with Satan, meaning eternal separation from God, which is the worst possible thing that can happen to a human soul. Jeus warned us so often of that terrible fact during His sojourn here on earth. For instance, He declared (chuh!!!) to the disciple called Doubting Thomas and also to us in no uncertain words: ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.’ (John 14:6)
What’s in that not to understand eh mih bredrin? Jesus is the ONLY WAY that a human being or soul can get into the presence of the Father. That means, if you don’t accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour, then you’ll never even see the pearly gates of heaven, much less enter them! And per the way to get to heaven, Jesus further tells us: ‘Enter ye in at the strait (narrow) gate: for wide is the gate and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait (narrow) is the gate, and narrow (difficult, confined) is the way, which leadeth unto life (eternal), and few there be that find it.’ (Matt. 7:13-14)
Ah friends, what else must Jesus do and say to make us believe that His way is the best option in this world eh? And I like how this commentary explains those two verses. ‘The wide gate of the world promises life and happiness but delivers destruction. The way of Christ requires that we lay our lives down, but in that sacrifice we find a reward of (eternal) life. Sadly, the gate that is wide and the way that is broad is the one most people travel. That way leads to destruction.’ Yes mih bredrin, because the gate to Christ and eternal life is so narrow and ofttimes hard to negotiate, fewer people travel it, and thus are led to their destruction, to eternal separation from God.
Meanwhile in the gospel of Luke Jesus words on the subject are recorded thus: ‘And he (Jesus) went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that are saved? And he said unto them. Strive to enter in at the strait (narrow) gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without (outside), and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not, whence are ye (where are you from).
Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are (where you are from); depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Issac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last.’ (Luke 13:22-30)
Oh my people, if after reading and hearing all of Jesus’ words, we still refuse to accept Him as Lord and Saviour and don’t endeavour to walk the straight and narrow path, then we have no one else but ourselves to blame, when we are thrust out of God’s kingdom and lay there weeping and gnashing our teeth, foolishly thinking that because we were in the upper echelons of society, a power broker, we would automatically get to enter heaven. Unfortunately though, those who were far below us but accepted Jesus and walked the straight and narrow path will be greeted first at the pearly gates.
Please let this be a lesson to us all: our positions here on earth don’t mean a thing in heaven. What’s important is our personal relationship with Jesus. And if you don’t have one, you’d better get one, RIGHT NOW, before it’s too late! That’s the wisdom of the ages! Much LOVE!
…following Jesus is not easy…but it’s the ONLY WAY to heaven…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
14 Dec 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a fulfillment of those things, a positive outlook on life, abundance, all generations shall call me blessed, blessed is she that believed, bounden duty, courage, creativity, curse, divine protection, Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost, filled the hungry with good things, God's supernatural presence, God's supernatural wisdom, he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden, he that is mighty hath done to me great things, his mercy is on them that fear him, holy spirit, how much of Christmas is focused on Christ, Jesus Christ, LOVE, mercy, my soul doth magnify the Lord, my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour, negative word, Old Testament imagery, scattered the proud, the imagination of their hearts, the incarnate birth of Christ, the Magnificat, the mother of my Lord, the reason for the season, the rich he hath sent empty away, Thursday Blessings, truth
Luke 1:46-47. And Mary said, My soul doth magnify (exalt) the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
And then it was Thursday; the penultimate day of the work week, and also one day closer to the birth of Christ! And as I go around my neighbourhood, I can see all the activity, all the busyness that this time of year spurs. And it’s certainly the case in my home, as the Duchess is slowly ramping up the Christmas spirit. I can’t walk anywhere in the house without encountering some kind of Christmas decoration, some of which I don’t like, and I believe makes the place even more congested than usual. But apparently I have no say in the matter. (smile) However, the Christmas tree does look luverly.
And I bring all of that up because I want to find out just how much of all this Christmas activity is actually being focused on Christ and His incarnate birth, or are we more concerned about the time for gifts and feasting and secular celebrations? And for the many who proclaim, ‘Happy Holidays!’ What’s the holidays about eh? It’s about the birth of Jesus! Without the celebration of the birth of Jesus there would be no holidays, no shopping, with the cash registers merrily jingling every few seconds, no gift giving or joyful get togethers. So why can’t we acknowledge Jesus as the true reason for the season eh?
As our world becomes more evil, secular and ungodly, it’s becoming an uphill battle to remind people that Jesus’ birth is why we celebrate these supposed holidays. But let’s not give up my fellow believers, for if we keep on sending the message, in due course, the heathen, the ungodly, the evildoer, the greedy business person, will all come to recognize why there’s all the hubbub and hoopla at this time of year – the marvellous, miraculous, incarnate birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! There’s never before been a birth like it… and there will never again be another one as marvellous and miraculous!
And today I want to explore the situation of that incarnate birth a little bit more for there are some interesting ramifications to it, like what happens after Mary’s momentous encounter with the angel Gabriel. The Good Library tells us: ‘And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda. And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted (greeted) Elisabeth. And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heart the salutation (greeting) of Mary, the babe (John the Baptist) leaped in her womb, and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost.
And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. And whence is this to me, that (why should) the mother of my Lord come to me? For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation (greeting) sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance (fulfillment) of those things which were told her from the Lord.’ (Luke 1:39-45)
Oh my people, doesn’t it astound and astonish you at the amazing dramatics that our God has placed in Hs Word? Listen to that drama there as Mary, the Mother of Jesus greets Elisabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. The Holy Ghost comes upon Elisabeth and John the Baptist jumps for joy in his mother’s womb, spiritually knowing that the One whom he is coming to prepare the way for is close by! Wow! Only our great God could engineer such a dramatic situation! Give Him thanks and praise for His awesome Word nuh!
But it gets even more dramatic as Mary then proceeds to sing this song, we call ‘The Magnificat.’ ‘And Mary said, My soul doth magnify (exalt) the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded the low estate (lowly state) of his hand maiden (maidservant): for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. And his mercy is on them that fear (reverence) him from generation to generation.
He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seats (thrones), and exalted them of low degree (the lowly). He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath holpen (helped) his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy; As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed (descendants) for ever.’ (Luke 1:46-55)
Oh friends, what magnificent sentiments in praise of our God’s goodness and mercy, His strength and His faithfulness! How could an ordinary teenaged girl proclaim such things eh…not unless she was filled with the Holy Spirit! The Bible then informs us: ‘And Mary abode with her (Elisabeth) about three months, and returned to her own house.’ (Luke 1:56) Can you imagine the conversations between the two women, and the way Jesus and John the Baptist were carrying on in their mothers wombs during those conversations. (smile) Only in the Bible, you say! Yes! Only in the Bible!
And per the name of Mary’s soliloquy ‘The Magnificat’ the scholars tell us it’s based on the first word of the Latin translation (the Vulgate), and is rich in Old Testament imagery, for Jesus’ coming was in fulfillment of Old Testament promises. And that’s the gospel truth my fellow believers! From the very beginning of that noteworthy tome, there have been promises and talk of the coming of our Lord and Saviour. So please, as we go about our shopping and baking and all the etceteras of the season, let’s see if we can’t put a li’l more of our focus, our thoughts on the reason for the season, Jesus Christ.
Let’s try and keep Him first place in all we do, so that we won’t forget why we’re having this joyful period of the year. And to help us with all that stuff, the Lord has generously bestowed certain blessings on us that we call our Thursday Blessings, but to activate them we need to declare them out loud, so let’s do that right now nuh. Altogether: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance!
I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’
And having activated those underserved blessings, it’s now our bounden duty to go out and use them on behalf of others, just as generously as the Lord gave them to us! Much LOVE!
…but for the incarnate birth of Jesus…there would be no holiday season…at this time of year…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
13 Dec 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: believing God's promises, endure to the end, eyes straight ahead, faith, frailties and weaknesses, God knows our hearts, guiding through the Holy Spirit, head knowledge alone is a waste of time, holy spirit, Jesus Christ, let my heart be sound, LOVE, mercy, not always a bed of roses, not looking back, obedience, obey me, One Year Book of Bible promises, revernce, Ruth Harms Calkin, thank God, that I be not ashamed, the attributes of Jesus, the breath of life, the choice to obey is always mine, the multifaceted character of God's word, Three Unalterable Truths, to a glorious future with Jesus, truth, walking hand in hand, Wednesday Wail, worahip
Psalm 119:80. Let my heart be sound (blameless) in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed.
Oh friends, this mid-week Wednesday morning is bright and sunshiny! Exactly what the doctor ordered for the dark and cloudy times the winter season so often coughs up. One proviso though, it’s windy and cold. But once the sun’s shining brightly, I don’t care about the cold. The sunshine brings out the attributes of Jesus in me, and allows me to handle the cold with a good attitude! (smile) And with that good attitude in mind, this poem from our One Year Book of Bible Promises with writings by Ruth Harms Calkin titled ‘Three Unalterable Truths’ is definitely an appropriate reading for today’s Bit.
So please read with me: ‘Lord, through the years Of walking hand in hand with You I have learned three unalterable truths: First, what You command me to do You consistently expect me to do. Never do You say, “Give the command a fair try.” Nor do You say, “Consider and then decide.” My natural weakness is never An acceptable excuse. Nor is my inability To reach unreachable standards. Rather, You tell me to seek And then to keep Your commands.
Second, all of Your commands Are always for my ultimate good. “Obey me.” Your Word says “So that I can do for you All the wonderful things I promised…” “In the keeping of My Word There is great reward.” Third, whatever You command me to do You fully enable me to do. As You give light to reveal a command So You give grace to fulfill it. Your divine energy is always at my disposal. The choice to obey is always mine. The power to obey is always Yours.’
Mama Mia! What glorious truths those are my faithful brethren! The Lord expects us to do exactly as He asks, and those commandments are always for our benefit, not His, for He desires nothing of us but our faithful reverence, worship and obedience! And furthermore, whatever He asks us to do, He always gives us the strength, energy and anointing to do it. So, it’s not like our great and wonderful God ask us to do things we can’t do then leaves us in the lurch figuring out how to do it. No! he enables us to do EVERYTHING He asks of us! And until we sincerely believe that, we’ll always be wandering around like lost sheep.
The problem with the whole matter though, might be we refuse or are afraid to begin doing whatever God asks us to do, figuring that we can’t do it, so it’s no use to try. But friends, that’s exactly what the Lord expects of us; to at least sincerely try to do what He asks before giving up on it entirely. And I can certainly testify to that. When the Lord first broached the subject of the Bit with me, I laughed and said I couldn’t do it, because my scriptural knowledge was insufficient for such an important project. However, He kept badgering me in the way that only He can do, and eventually broke down my defenses.
But the truth of the matter is that my scriptural knowledge was somewhat spotty and insignificant, so at the beginning it was merely a verse or two of scripture without any knowledgeable comments. But as time went along the Lord helped me to improve. He was ALWAYS there with me, leading and guiding me through His Holy Spirit. And the more I wrote, the better informed I became, until now, some sixteen years later, instead of having a problem with writing too little, I have one with writing too much, as Today’s Bit exemplifies! (smile)
And believe me, over those years my obedience has improved a whole lot, and so have His rewards for it! Don’t get me wrong, I don’t do everything He asks me to do, or do it well, but He knows my imperfections and as we said with Zacharias yesterday, He knows my heart, that it’s for Him and not for Satan. And that’s all the Lord expects of us my people, to have a soft and tender heart towards Him and to do the best we can with what He’s given us. Nobody knows our frailties and weaknesses better than Almighty God, because He made us and put in everything that was necessary for the individual plan that He drew up for each of us.
So our foibles aren’t a surprise to Him, but He expects us to come to Him and ask for grace and mercy to do His holy will. And believe me, I discovered that in the early years of writing the Bit. When I didn’t know what to write, I simply turned to the Lord and cried out that fact, and He always helped me, though not necessarily right away. Sometimes when I opened the Good Library it opened right unto a suitable scripture. But at other times I had to go searching through the Word, until something appeared that I could get my head around. So it was not always a bed of roses; I had to work at it.
And today, when I don’t know what to write, I still cry out for divine help. And from past experience, I know that He will eventually show me something, because it’s His Word I’m trying to promote and He’s promised to ALWAYS help those who do that. How did Jesus put it after giving the disciples and us the Great Commission? ‘…and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.’ (Matt. 28:20b) The important thing my brethren is to first know the word of God, and then put it into practice. Having head knowledge alone is a waste of time. The word must sink into your hearts and soul then be manifested in your life for it be of any real use.
And that’s why the Bible verse for our poem comes from that long, but magnificent Psalm on the value of God’s Word, or as the scholars put it: ‘its multifaceted character.’ And it most definitely is multi-faceted or versatile, having a variety of different and important features or elements. Anyway the Bibe verse for the poem as quoted by the book from the New Living Translation is: ‘ May I be blameless in keeping your principles, then I will never have to be ashamed.’ (Ps. 119:80) Meanwhile the King James Version, my favourite, says it thus: ‘Let my heart be sound (blameless) in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed.’
Oh friends, the only way we can do that is by sincerely reading and studying God’s Word, and then putting it into practice in our everyday lives. But then again, that takes time and practice and personal experience with God. However, as I’ve testified, if you turn to God when you don’t know how to proceed, He will always show you how to go. That’s His faithful promise. And that’s another ever important aspect of walking with Lord, believing His promises, which again only comes with time and practice. So the long and short of the story is to walk sincerely with the Lord, study His word, obey His commands as best you can in your own strength, then cry out to Him for help and believe His promises.
Now, let’s go home declaring (chuh!!!) our Wednesday Wail, letting all and sundry know of our wonderful position in Christ Jesus. As one voice: ‘Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: I’m so glad to be alive on this Wednesday! Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: Thank God the breath of life is still flowing through me on this Wednesday! I am halfway home. My hands are fixed securely on the plough, and I’m not turning back. I’m not looking back at the past, not focusing on what has gone before. But my eyes are fixed straight ahead; straight ahead to a glorious future with Jesus. Glory Hallelujah!’
And there’s a li’l codicil at the end that says if we endure with Jesus right down to the very end, then that future will be even more glorious than we can ask or imagine. So, hoping to see you there! Much LOVE!
…our God is faithful, strong and true…and if you are true to him…He will be true to you…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
11 Dec 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a forgiving and gracious God, appreciate the value of work, attitude of entitlement, be on our p's and q's, busybodies, crooks come in all colours, disobeyed your word, divine help, don't know the meaning of shame, eat any man's bread for nought, fact from fiction, faith, gossips, holy spirit, if any would not work neither should he eat, Jehovah Rapha, Jesus Christ, LOVE, Monday Morning Battle Hymn, repentance, room for compassion, shame into obedience, social media, take it in stride, the ever-revolving cycle, the God who heals, to make ourselves an ensample, truth, turn from our evil ways, wise guidance, work ethic, work is essential, your humble servants
2 Thessalonians 3:10. For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.
Ah chuh! Another Monday, another new work week! Yes friends, the ever-revolving cycle continues, for once there is Sunday, then there must be Monday. That’s just how the Lord planned it, and there’s nothing we can do to get away from it while we’re alive here on God’s good earth, so we had better learn to live with it, to take it in stride and enjoy it.
And an interesting thought just struck me; who knows if there won’t be different days in heaven too, and not only one long stretch of endless time. For sure though, we will have to work in heaven, whatever kind of work it might be, it’s definitely not going to be all sunshine, wine and roses while lazing on our fannies all day! No sir! The Lord expects us to do something productive both here on the earth and in heaven above. So we better had start contemplating it all, as of right now! End of story! (smile)
And talking about work, to many in these modern times it’s anathema, abhorrent, repugnant, violently disliked. And that’s just stating it mildly! Even among the young generation, the very thought of the word work leaves a bad taste in their mouths, so strong is their attitude of entitlement. Maybe though, if we were to apply Bruh Paul’s recipe to the Thessalonians for those who not only dislike work but refuse to do it, we might have a much better work ethic prevailing in our current society. And what’s Bruh Paul’s recipe you ask?
Listen to him tell it. He begins by describing his own work ethic among the Thessalonians. ‘For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you; Neither did we eat any man’s bread for nought (free of charge); but wrought (worked) with labour and travail (toil) night and day, that we might not be chargeable (a burden) to any of you. Not because we have not power (authority), but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.’ (2 Thess. 3:7-10)
Wow! What an original idea! How wonderful would that be eh, if it were implemented in our lazy, entitled, lack of work ethic society! Oh, what a ghastly uproar it would cause! But how else do we get the young to appreciate the value of work, for a society without a good work ethic dies a slow but painful death. And that is exactly what’s happening to our society today; we are dying a slow but painful death because work and all the other things it entails, like diligence and excellence, doing our best, are no longer prominent in today’s milieu.
And I believe Bruh Paul must have looked to the future and seen the state of our current society, that’s why he penned this next verse. ‘For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.’ (2 Thess. 3:11) Ah mih people, I don’t believe there’s ever been a time in the annals of man when there have been more busybodies, gossips and the like. It’s even become a lucrative business for many, and the advent of social media has made it even worse, where everyone has an opinion on everything and can easily spread it without too much fear of retribution. And the recent upgrades of Artificial Intelligence (A.I) is set to further the confusion of truth, fakes, disinformation, propaganda, conspiracy theories, etc. etc.
What a crazy world we’re living in Dr. Jack! Very few of us know what’s fact from fiction, and Artificial Intelligence is about to make it even more difficult. And the problem is that sometimes even when you see something yourself, it can easily be a fake situation, something someone purposely set up to lure you into thinking what they want you to think, as with fake accidents for the intent of scamming money from the Insurance Companies. That’s become a big one these days. Oh mih bredrin, crooks come in all colours, sizes, shapes and genders, we just have to be continually on our p’s and q’s to not be taken in by them.
But getting back to Buh Paul’s plan, of no work, no food. It was not a total dismissal, he did leave room for compassion. He writes: ‘Now them that are such (idle, busybodies) we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. But ye brethren, be not weary in well doing. And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish (warn) him as a brother.’ (2 Thess. 12-15)
Yes friends, there is room for compassion. As the scholars explain: ‘3:14-15. This instruction falls short of excommunication. Paul intends for his readers to shame the brother who is not an enemy into obedience.’ Well good luck with that! Bruh Paul doesn’t know the large number of us who don’t know the meaning of the word shame! Otherwise our society would not be as shameful and shameless as it is! So who knows how it’s all going to play out with all the craziness and confusion that’s currently controlling our world?
Only the Lord above! That’s why we need to keep Him as close to us as possible, because He is the ONLY One who can guide us safely through this terrible storm and overwhelming darkness that’s taken over the earth. And having said all of that, let’s now go to the throne of grace, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, in confident humility seeking divine help to address our many problems.
Altogether now: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. Heavenly Father, You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems. Yes, we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek Your face. So, we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading for wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems.
Oh Father, please ease the pain of the many suffering from negative situations, show them Your awesome grace and mercy. And faithfully keep Your promise to prosper us if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’
And after expressing those sentiments, the first item on our agenda should be repentance and turning from our evil ways, for that’s the only way we’ll ever get divine help! Much LOVE!
…if work is not a priority in your life…then you’re on the wrong planet…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
10 Dec 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a God of truth and without iniquity, a testimony of believers, all his ways are judgement, all other ground is sinking sand, and beat upon that house, and it fell not, as ye see the day approaching, Edward Mote, exhorting one another, faith, fellowship, for it was founded upon the rock, great was the fall of it, his blood supports me in the 'whelming flood, hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering, holy spirit, I rest on his unchanging grace, Jesus Christ, Jesus' blood and righteousness, LOVE, my anchor holds within the veil, My hope is built on nothing less, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves, on Christ the solid rock I stand, refresh and rejuvenate our souls, stir up unto love and good works, the horn of my salvation, The Lord is my rock, the rain descended, the truths of God's Word, the winds blew, the world through him might be saved, truth, wisdom
Matthew 7:25. And the rain descended, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a (the) rock.
Gather round friends, gather round! Let’s fill the Lord’s sanctuary this Sunday morning for fellowship and worship, to give Him the glory and honour He so assuredly deserves. It’s the best way to refresh and rejuvenate our souls, bodies and spirits at the end of another long and tiring week of work. There’s nothing like the gathering of the saints, as we mix and mingle and encourage each other in the Lord.
As the scriptures tell us: ‘Let us hold fast the profession (confession) of our faith (hope) without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised😉 And let us consider one another to provoke (stir up) unto LOVE and to good works. Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.’ (Heb. 10:23-25) Oh my fellow believers, we need to keep meeting regularly, not like some others do, because Christian community and perseverance are of the utmost importance, as the writer of Hebrews stresses.
And furthermore, we need to stand firm in our faith because God is faithful and needs us to encourage each other in LOVE and good works, even more as we see the day of Christ approaching. And believe me, that moment draws closer with each passing day. God does not expect or intend for Believers to stand alone. And having acknowledged the importance of fellowship, let’s break out in praise and worship, with this Christian hymn written by the British author Edward Mote around 1837, most appropriately titled ‘My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less.’
The story goes that apparently ‘Mote only wrote one hymn. And “My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less” was just as much an anthem of his own testimony as it has become for believers all over the world. Having grown up knowing nothing of God or His existence, Mote first attended church and became a Christian as a young adult. While still a new believer, he was compelled to try his hand at hymn writing. Thus, Mote wrote from a basic, yet profound understanding of his salvation.
Later that same week, he visited a married couple at the wife’s sickbed. Without a hymnal handy to lead them in a song of worship, Mote produced a folded-up piece of paper upon which he had worked out four verses and a chorus. Together, they sang the hymn now known as “My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less” for the first time, blessed by the truths of God’s Word in the lyrics.’ And who says that our great God doesn’t move in mysterious and miraculous ways eh! Just imagine a new believer writing such a wonderful hymn! Only through the auspices of the Holy Spirit!
And now, as we sing it, we’ll realize that it’s the gospel truth! So, let’s offer up sacrifices of praise in a rich, up-tempo, scintillating version showing our joyful sincerity, because it’s a song that’s meant to make us joyful. Singing: ‘My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame but wholly lean on Jesus’ name. (Refrain: On Christ, the solid rock, I stand; all other ground is sinking sand, all other ground is sinking sand.) When darkness veils his lovely face I rest on His unchanging grace In every high and stormy gale My anchor holds within the veil.
(Refrain) His oath, his covenant, his blood Supports me in the ‘whelming flood When all around my soul gives way He then is all my hope and stay. (Refrain) Not earth, nor hell, my soul can move; I rest upon unchanging LOVE. I trust his righteous character, his counsel, promise, and his pow’r. [Refrain] When he shall come with trumpet sound, oh, may I then in him be found, dressed in his righteousness alone, faultless to stand before the throne. [Refrain: On Christ, the solid rock, I stand; all other ground is sinking sand, all other ground is sinking sand. On Christ, the solid rock, I stand; all other ground is sinking sand, all other ground is sinking sand. Oh thank You Lord…You solid rock…’
And is our God ever a great and immovable rock! That’s for sure! He’s solid, steadfast, faithful, unchanging with all the attributes we expect of a big rock! That’s why there are so many scriptures portraying Him as such. Listen to Moses, who should know that more than most, seeing that he had such a long and intimate experience with God. He writes in Deuteronomy: ‘He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgement (justice): a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.’ (Deut. 32:4) You could not want or get, a better short description of our marvelous God.
And Bruh David said it thus in Psalm 18: ‘I will LOVE thee, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength (rock), in whom I will trust; my buckler (shield), and the horn (strength) of my salvation, and my high tower.’ (Ps. 18:1-2) Wow! What a mighty God we serve my brethren! Any God who is all those things must be powerful, unmovable and a source of safety and refuge! That’s why Bruh David could say in the next verse: ‘I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.’ (Ps. 18:3)
Now that’s exactly what we need to do with Jesus – call on Him to save us, for He is the ONLY ONE capable of doing that! His precious shed blood and righteousness are the only things that stand between us and hellfire and damnation! And that’s the major reason He came into the world. In His own words: ‘For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.’ (John 3:17) That’s why He went to the cross and sacrificed His sinless life on our behalf. So that we could be saved, be reconciled back to the Father by accepting him as Lord and Saviour.
Consequently, as he told the disciple Thomas: ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life: no one cometh unto the Father but by me.’ (John 14:6) And if I were you, I wouldn’t try to prove Him wrong nuh. (smile) Oh friends, Jesus is the great pilot of our lives. He guides us through all the storms of life to safe shores, if we allow Him to. He is the epitome of all that’s true and wonderful and strong; a most fitting and worthy representative and representation of the Father! And since we’re running out of space and time, we can’t get into all the other rock references to Jesus, but we do know what He meant when He said in Matthew:
‘Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house on a (the) rock: And the rain descended, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a (the) rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.’ (Matt. 7:24-27)
Let’s hope we all recognize that Jesus was there talking about Himself as the Rock on which all wise people will build their lives! Much LOVE!
…Jesus is the ONLY safe, secure and steadfast place to build one’s life…all else is merely sinking sand…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
07 Dec 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: abundance, an intimate relationship with Christ, be of good cheer I have overcome the world, courage, creativity, curse, faith, holy spirit, I will love thee O Lord, in me ye might have peace, in the world ye shall have tribulation, in whom I will trust, it doesn't happen automatically, Jesus Christ, Jesus is the pilot of our life, live the abundant life, LOVE, my deliverer my God my strength, negative word, nothing shall separate us from the love of God, receive clear direction for my life, saved from mine enemies, self-discipline. self-control, stand strong in Faith, success, talent, the awesome power of His Holy Spirit, the horn of my salvation, the Lord is my rock and my fortress, the Lord is worthy to be praised, Thursday Blessings, we are more than conquerors, written indelibly in our hearts
Psalm 18:1. I will LOVE thee O Lord, my strength.
And, due to a somewhat snowy Wednesday night, we have ended up with a snow tinged Thursday morning. (smile) Yes, some snow, not a whole lot, just enough to cover everything, fell during the night hours, but by the time the day opened the roads were mostly clear and the white intruder had begun melting. But we still need to be careful as we go out today, because it’s still wet and possibly slippery. In other words, welcome to a damp and cloudy day! And as always, possibly a li’l more so today because of the wet, gloomy weather, before we step out of the house, we have to ask our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ for His protection and guidance as we go about our business.
For He is the ONLY sure thing we have in this evil and ungodly world! And we have these strong and sure sentiments of Bruh David from Psalm 18, to prove it. He uttered these words in song when the Lord delivered him from all his enemies, especially King Saul. ‘I will LOVE thee O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength (rock), in whom I will trust; my buckler (shield), and the horn (strength) of my salvation, and my high tower (stronghold). I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.’ (Ps. 18:1-3)
We can’t get any stronger or more faithful sentiments than those my brethren! And let’s hope that those are words we all believe, that we have written indelibly in our hearts, minds, bodies and souls, for without that strong trust in Almighty God, who knows what will happen to us at any given time, on any given day! Only when we have surrendered our all, placed our complete trust in Christ Jesus can we walk in comparative safety. For Jesus is the able pilot of our good ship Life, and He, and He alone can pilot us safely through the storms that most certainly will come upon each of us.
Remember these word of His: ‘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 yes, I know that’s easier said than done, for when the unexpected troubles and tribulations suddenly come upon us, sometimes we don’t even have time to think before we need to respond to them. But if we walk faithfully with that peace that comes from a strong and intimate relationship with Christ, then He will ensure that we have whatever time we need to think, before responding to our unfortunate situation.
Yes my people, it’s all about building the kind of faith in Jesus that will allow us to go about our business and His, with a type of peace that only comes from Him. as He says in the gospel of John: ‘Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.’ (John 14:27) And it’s ever so important to note that Jesus’ peace is way different to what the world touts as peace. His peace is that peace which passes all human understanding. It’s so far above our understanding, so powerful and refreshing, that we who posses it don’t understand it either, but we know that it’s there, indwelling us through the awesome power of the Holy Spirit!
Wow! And it doesn’t mean that we won’t feel fear, anxiety or any of the other negative emotions when tough times invade our souls, but that we will have the peace of Jesus to handle them without them taking us under. However, in those rough times, we need to stand strong in faith, by remembering all that Jesus has already done for us, and His promise never to leave nor forsake us, (Heb. 13:5) otherwise, all our talk will be in vain. He’s also promised that we won’t ever be faced with spirit-crunching fear because as Bruh Paul told Timothy: ‘God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound (disciplined) mind.’ (2 Tim. 1:7)
So you see, we have all the tools to handle the world’s attempts to drive us into the evil arms of Satan. That’s the peace of God which passes all human understanding; the promise of God never to leave nor forsake us, and God’s indomitable, invincible Spirit of power, LOVE and a sound mind! But unfortunately they don’t work unless and until we put them together in that big ball of strong faith required to defeat the enemy and his many attempts to overcome us. That brings to mind this added scripture of promise; the encouraging words of Bruh Paul to the church at Rome.
He writes: ‘Who will separate us from the LOVE of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, for thy sake we are killed all the day long, we are counted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that LOVED us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the LOVE of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.’ (Rom. 8:39)
Mama Mia! What powerful words my fellow saints! Words that we should all be able to truly espouse in our hearts, bodies and souls, if we want to live the abundant life that Christ died for us to have. Jesus said it thus: ‘The thief cometh not, but for (except) to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.’ (John 10:10) There we have it friends, Jesus died so that we can have an abundant life down here as well as in heaven, but unfortunately it doesn’t happen automatically, we have an important part to play in the process: that’s putting all the tools we’ve been granted together to make the whole come right.
But yuh know what, in addition to those tools, our God is so generous and forthcoming, that He’s also bestowed a number of undeserved blessings on us to use in our advancement of His kingdom. We call them our Thursday Blessings. So let’s declare (yesss!!!) them now that they can be activated in our lives. As one voice: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance!
I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’
And having activated those blessings, we’re now responsible to go out and share them with others, just as generously as the Lord shared them with us! Much LOVE!
…God’s given us all we need to succeed in life…it’s up to us how we use His gifts…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
29 Nov 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: and all these things shall be added unto you, be careful for nothing, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, casting all your care upon him, catch our second wind, childish intensity, distractions bombarding us, endure to the end, eyes fixed straight ahead, faith, free to be myself, give balance to my boggled mind, hands on the plough, he careth for you, holy spirit, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, I'm frightened, in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, infuse me with your poise and power, Jesus Christ, let your requests be made known unto God, LOVE, mercy, my total self is submerged in you, not easy times to navigate, not turning back, One Year Book of Bible promises, pull me off the merry-go-round, seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, shall keep your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ, so glad to be alive, thank God, the breath of life, the peace of God, the tension etching my somber face, to a glorious future with Jesus, too many irons in the fire, Wednesday Wail, What's Myself Doing to Myself, which passeth all understanding, your plan for my personal fulfillment
Philippians 4:6. Be careful (anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And then it was Wednesday, the mid-week workday when we are supposed to catch our second wind and move on down to the end Friday with improved enthusiasm and excellence. (smile) Unfortunately, I don’t know if it actually works that way, because from my own experience, I’ve found that you get more tired as the week winds down. But it’s always nice to have something to fall back on to liven up our days, give us a reason to go on. (smile)
Now, let me apologize for the lateness of the Bit, but I had to go out the street early this morning and do some time sensitive errands, and by the time I got back from running around in the cold, cloudy, windy morning with the occasional snow flurries floating down from on high, hunger, thirst and tiredness and taken over my ole body, so I had to satisfy those needs before I could do a worthwhile Bit. (smile)
And today we’re going to get into this most appropriate poem from our One Year Book of Bible Promises with writings by Ruth Harms Calkin, aptly titled ‘What’s Myself doing to Myself?’ And that’s surely a good question for many of us to be asking ourselves in these trying and difficult times.
So please read with me: ‘With childish intensity she asked “What’s myself doing to myself?” I couldn’t help but smile As she stood before the mirror Struggling so impatiently With a stubborn jacket zipper. But I’m not smiling now, Lord As I pass my own mirror and glance at the tension Etching my sombre face. I’m frightened, Lord. Her innocent question clutches me. “What’s myself doing to myself?” Frustrated, frantic So often breathless Too many irons in the fire…
What am I doing to my body – To my mind, my emotions? What am I doing to my family? What am I doing to Your Plan For my personal fulfillment? Why do I live like this, Lord As though Your world Couldn’t exist without me? Why do I so often Tear myself from Your control? Dear Lord, calm me. Pull me off the merry-go-round Of converging conflicts. Give balance to my boggled mind. This very hour, Lord Infuse me with Your poise and power Until my total self Is submerged in You – Yourself. Only then will I be free To be myself.’
Wow! What very appropriate but encouraging words! Yes friends, many of us are doing harm to ourselves, physically, emotionally and spiritually, trying to live up to the all the conflicting convergences that are engulfing our lives. And when we do stop and think about it, we realize that we can’t fix them all, if any. And furthermore, the only way to find peace in our daily struggles is by turning back to Almighty God and surrendering our all to Him. Placing all the conflicts in His hands, while receiving His grace and mercy to go about our many tough tasks in peace and contentment.
Now, that’s not always easy to do either, especially when the many distractions of this ungodly world are constantly bombarding us from all directions, and the bills, the rent-man and whoever else is breathing down our necks for what we owe them. No my bredrin, these are not easy times to navigate, especially on our own, but we’re so blessed to have the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour, our Comforter, our Go-to -Guy, whom we can count on to help us in our troubles. However, if we desire His awesome help, we have to be confident and faithful enough to give ourselves and our troubles over to Him.
As the poem so rightly expresses: ‘This very hour, Lord Infuse me with Your poise and power Until my total self Is submerged in You – Yourself. Only then will I be free to be myself.’ Yes my fellow believers, if we sincerely ask the Lord for His poise and power, He will give it to us, fill us with His Holy Spirit that will allow us to be free to be ourselves once again, and not totally distracted and confuffled by the many headed dragons that the world is constantly sending against us. It’s the only way to win the battle against Satan and his evil doers.
And yes, the theory is very sound, but how does one go about it practically? Well the Bible Promise for today’s poem gives us some idea of how to do it. They are words of encouragement written long ago by Bruh Paul to the Philippians, but words which are still filled with strength and encouragement for today. He wrote: ‘Be careful (anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep (guard) your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.’ (Phil. 4:6-7)
And that sounds oh so easy, but like everything else, it takes practice. The more often you do it, the easier it becomes. And when the world is coming at you, it’s not so easy not to worry, but please remember that He that is in You, the Lord Jesus Christ, is greater than he that’s in the world, Satan. (1 John 4:4) And that’s the awesome truth! But you have to believe it and then put it into action by humbling yourself and casting all your care on Christ. Peter says it quiet nicely: ‘Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.’ (1 Pet. 5:6-7)
Now there’s the magical or miracle words my brethren: the Lord cares for us! And since He cares, He will not allow us to suffer more than we need to, if we bring all of our troubles to Him in a humble and sincere manner. And if you don’t believe Bruh Paul, John, Peter, or me, mayhap you’ll believe Jesus when He tells you:
‘Wherefore, if God so clothe (clothes) the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought (don’t worry), saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles (unbelievers) seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that you have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; ad all these things shall be added unto you.’ (Matt. 6:30-33)
Now, let’s hope that you believed Jesus! (smile) But for those of us who do, let’s go home declaring (awright!!!) our Wednesday Wail, letting all and sundry know of our wonderful position in Christ Jesus! Altogether now: ‘Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: I’m so glad to be alive on this Wednesday! Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: Thank God the breath of life is still flowing through me on this Wednesday! I am halfway home. My hands are fixed securely on the plough, and I’m not turning back. I’m not looking back at the past, not focusing on what has gone before. But my eyes are fixed straight ahead; straight ahead to a glorious future with Jesus. Glory Hallelujah!’
And we’ve also been promised that if we endure right to the very end with Jesus, then that future will be even more glorious than we can ever ask or imagine. So let’s plan to mee there nuh! Much LOVE!
…only in Jesus Christ…can the answers to our problems be found…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
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